I had to smile this morning when the CBS Sunday Morning
aired a piece entitled, “No Problem”: Yes, It’s a Big Program."
Reporter Bill Flannagan stated my sentiments when he said he’s
sick and tired of the reply “no problem” when a “thank you” is the appropriate
reply.
If you work in a shop and a customer thanks you for selling him something, don't say, "No problem." He's paying for the item! I think the appropriate response here would be, "No, thank YOU!"
He made a distinction, saying it’s an OK reply to “thank you” if it means “there’s no need to feel indebted.”
But I part ways with him on the exception: I don’t think the reply “no problem” is appropriate here either. Why not just “you’re welcome”?
It’s a very cute story and you can read the entire
transcript here or view the video.
 |
".... if you work in a doughnut shop and a customer thanks you for selling him
a coffee, don't say, "No problem." He's paying for the coffee!
Just say, "You're welcome -- Bill Flanagan Credit: (Sturti/Getty Images) via CBS |
I don't like "No problem" either, Sanda. It is much kinder and more respectful to say "You are welcome", I think.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad to know that others feel the same way. It's a flip response, IMO. The CBS piece was interesting, in that the reported noted it is primarily people born after 1980 who use the term.
DeleteEnjoyed the transcript. I prefer Thank You as well. On the other hand don't get me started on "Have a nice day". That robotic response really grates on my nerves.
ReplyDeleteDarla
Oh, that term bothers me too. How do you normally respond to that one? Sometimes I say thank you (NOT "no problem") and other times I respond "you have a nice day too."
DeleteI have another problem, sorry.
ReplyDeleteOver here, I guess over there too, e.g. when someone interviews you ( you being an expert on the subject or likes )she / he - after the interview is over, says: Thank you.
That´s ok and the right thing to say.
But ... also the interviewed says: Thank you. This troubles me. Why can´t the one interviewed say : You are welcome ? Or she/ he could say: Thank you FOR the interview?
Please enlighten me, I´m very frustrated about this one ; ).
Yes, I have noticed that one too, and also am annoyed by it. I suppose the person being interviewed is grateful for the opportunity of being interviewed, but like you, think thank you is not the appropriate response.; should be one or the other as you mentioned.
DeleteSanda,was discussing this at the w/e trying to work out when this first started? Even worse when they reply "No probs"!!
ReplyDeleteWell, I haven't heard the "no probs" term; just give it time tho, and it'll cross the Atlantic. BTW, what is the w/e?
DeleteSorry Sanda,just a lazy way of saying the weekend!
DeleteI know that world is spinning faster and faster and some of these phrases may seem antiquated and lenghty. I can't tell you how disappointed I am to notice that people have become rude, loud, self.centered and that good manners along with impeccable vocabulary and tiny gestures of respect have disappeared almost entirely.
ReplyDeleteI think a phrase such as No problem is so very casual it's okay when said to a family member or someone close in a very informal conversation. Otherwise: You're welcome! It was my pleasure. Think nothing of it... are so much more appropriate in a more formal setting and add a richness and pizazz.
All the behaviors you mention are epidemic, and i hate it. I suppose all we can do is set a good example.
DeleteAgree with all the other comments. Too bad we are loosing all our manners! Don't like the no problem comment....don't know if I'm supposed to respond!
ReplyDeleteSometimes I feel like saying "why do you think I think it IS a problem?"
ReplyDelete