Okay, but THIS.
My therapist only recently understood that when I said, “I don’t know how to make this phone call or make this appointment.” I very literally meant I didn’t know what to do. I can dial the phone, but what do I say EXACTLY? What questions are going to be asked? What do I need to have on hand? What if they ask me something I don’t know the answer to?
I’m one of those people that needs very specific and detailed instructions if I’m doing something for the first time.
Be patient with people. We all have our struggles. Sometimes it can make all the difference in the world knowing someone can spare a few minutes to care about you and walk you through something that’s hard for you.
HOW TO MAKE AN IMPORTANT ADULT CALL
FOR THE FIRST TIME
From an adult who has been doing this for about a decade now:
Remember that about 10% of any office’s weekly call volume is from people just like you who have never done this in their life.
The mass majority of people who run dentist offices, insurance claim call centers, whatever - remember what it’s like to be completely new, and are generally happy to explain the steps and re-phrase themselves if you let them know what you’re having trouble with, and are kind and patient with them.
You’re not inconveniencing them. You’re not burdening them. Call center folks are 1000x happier to speak with someone who is earnestly trying and needs some basic help on super simple things, instead of a pissy long-time customer who demands free shit.
You are a bright spot in their day. A chance to actually help.
So! Here’s the steps:
Keep reading
I can’t tell you how much I needed this.
I had to ring my car insurance yesterday, which I’ve never had to do before. It was terrifying. BUT when I explained to the call center person, including calling myself a useless adult who can’t adult, and they were very kind. It’s always worth saying “I’ve never done this before” because they’re usually a kind human (apart from P.B in my office, who I won’t name, but you get her on the phone and good lord, you’ll want to throw yourself out a window. I think she wants you to throw yourself out the window too) who will assist you however they can.
Here’s the Subway Reddit thread they were referencing.
Further, a helpful tip is to have all of this written down–even the most basic things you think you’ll of course remember to do/say–so you can look down at your notes and ask the question/write down the answer when you get nervous and your brain tries to fritz out. This is helpful for any interaction you’re nervous about, like doctor’s visits are immensely easier when you have your questions written down/you take notes. Every doctor I’ve ever been to has been at least baseline okay with this and almost always very happy about it, because it means you’re earnestly trying and they love that. Just explain that you’re nervous and it’s your first time and can you walk me through this, people want to help when they know you need it and what you’re looking for!
