By Nancy Friedman, The Telephone Doctor

We hear what bugs people a lot – and often. One of the most common comments　we’ve heard recently is when we are told “no problem” from those serving us on the phone or in person. Instead of a genuine “thank you” or something else that might be more appropriate,　there are those who insist on saying “no problem.”

When　a customer is asking for something, we are hearing that　the general public would rather hear, “I’ll be happy to get that for you” instead of “no problem.”

Did you ever wonder where　the expression “no problem” came from?

Ever been on a cruise? Well if you have, you know that if you wanted 6 more desserts, the waiter will tell you, “No problem.” In fact, everyone seems to be saying “no problem” everywhere on the ship for just about everything.

And when you come down to it, it’s not a terrible thing to say to someone. And there are those that　don’t find　it offensive; however, it seems as though there are many more who do! It’s not a dirty word. It’s not a swear word. It is, however, shall we say, an inappropriate word. It started in the islands and made its way to our country.

So today we’re concentrating on eliminating “no problem” and share a few other phrases that are more “customer friendly.” Let’s try using words that turn people on instead of turning them off.

Example: The other day in a restaurant I asked for some water without ice. And I got the old, “No problem.” The person with me said, “Why would getting you water without ice be a problem?” I was used to the expression so I hadn’t given it too much thought.

Yes, I thought a more appropriate answer to my request for water with no ice might have been, “Certainly. I will get that for you.” Or even mirroring my request like, “Water no ice? My pleasure.”

In our　recent Friendly Voice newsletter, we asked for　our readers　random thoughts. We received　hundreds of emails offering their random　thoughts and “no problem” really bugged them.　

So when you are tempted to offer up a “no problem,” it’s best you remember the public would like a genuine and simple “You’re Welcome.”

Now why is that a problem? LOL!