topic Feeling Afraid in Anxiety

Feeling Afraid

Vanilla_24 — Fri, 01 Nov 2019 13:06:30 GMT

I work in customer service and I was wondering does anyone else find that dealing with customers can be very scary?

Feeling Afraid

music_man — Fri, 01 Nov 2019 14:28:05 GMT

Hi Vanilla,

I'm a long time anxiety sufferer and I've worked in numerous customer service roles and yes at times customers can be scary! I think it really depends on the individual. They're not all scary. On the other side, some of them can be really nice 🙂

I've had customers in my face screaming and yelling at me even though I had done nothing wrong, and it can be very upsetting. And trying to stay calm and be nice to them when it's happening is difficult.

I found the key is to try not to take things too personally, and I know that's not easy. They're not angry at you, they're just taking it out on you. Whilst that isn't right, understanding that can help to deal with it.

Feeling Afraid

Doolhof — Fri, 01 Nov 2019 20:54:55 GMT

Hi Vanilla 24,

At the moment I volunteer in an Op Shop and help out at the counter. I am really surprised at how cranky, nasty and rude some people can be, even in an Op Shop!

Like music_man wrote, some people just have issues and take their anger and frustration out on others. It may also be that they too have anxiety issues. Who knows!

When you feel uncomfortable, can you find some kind of affirmation to say to yourself like "Okay that was unpleasant. They are gone now and I am okay."

At the end of your shift, think of all the pleasant customers you had.

Hope you find some ways to add some peace to your mind. Some deep breathes might help as well.

Wishing you well. Cheers from Dools

Feeling Afraid

Doolhof — Fri, 01 Nov 2019 20:56:29 GMT

Hi Vanilla,

Just sent you a post, and have thought of something else.

Sometimes I find being nice to unpleasant people can make them nicer!

It makes me feel better as well.