Starting With Today

....... before the beginning, the beginning of the story that is.

Let's start with addressing this whole being a girl thing. Traditionally the Hardware store industry has obviously, like many American professions, been dominated by men. Not something I have a problem with. It's a reality. And there is no But to this line of thought, only words of respectful suggestion on etiquette for those who are willing to direct their perspective on a different vector (yup, just said that).

Let's do some translation role play shall we?

Kip: Hi, what can I help you find today?

Female Customer: Do you have those door stops that you push down? like the industrial kind?

Kip: Yeah sure! Let me show you.

FC: (Upon finding door stop)... oh great exactly what I wanted. Now I have another question, and I hate to be racist against a girl (Guffaw, Guffaw, Gufawwwww), but I just wouldn't know the answer myself, and ya know I just want to make sure I get the right answer.

Really..? Yup, this happened to me today in fact. Happens all the time. And equally from men and women. Not really heartbroken about it, just makes the day more interesting. Unless people are unnecessarily rude, then they become fair game. Face my witty comebacks, I dare you!

Look, I get it. You go to any big box/local store and some employees have very little personal or serious experience with using any of the stuffs in the store. The majority of the workforce may be totally unreliable narrators (yes, yes, yes! - even I fake it at times). But there are ways to test the waters of a persons knowledge with an air of the cavalier and quick determination.

PHRASES THAT YOU SHOULD NEVER SAY- Because what they really mean is "I don't think you know anything about anything and you shouldn't be working here":

1.) Oh, do you know this department well?

2.) Should I ask one of the guys?

3.) I don't know if you can help me or not but...

4.) I was wondering if you can find someone to help me?

5.) Can you direct me to the plumbing-electrical-tool-etc expert?

One can always tell situation from situation, the feeling you get upon encountering this sitch. 98% of the time they are light hearted, misspoken, and easy to brush off. Plus it just comes with the territory, sometimes I just have to take it.

It is always fun to discuss current society and gender roles, but let's remember it happens to men too. Just the other day, I had a man turn down help from colleague (also a man) in paint because "I don't trust him to mix my paint. I need a woman's perspective." I admit I relished the moment for a secret second.