Miss Manners: Mind your own business at the nail salon
By Judith Martin, Nicholas Ivor Martin and Jacobina Martin
Advice
You have been a regular at your local nail salon for two years, enjoying their services despite occasional awkward moments. During your visits, the Vietnamese owner and staff engage in conversations in their native language, sometimes making comments about customers that leave you feeling uncomfortable. You're unsure how to address this issue without causing offence.
Here’s a breakdown of possible actions:
- Acceptance: You could choose to ignore it, understanding that they may feel more comfortable speaking in their mother tongue.
- Communication: If changing salons isn't an option, consider politely expressing your feelings. You might say something like, "I appreciate your conversations in Vietnamese, but I often feel a bit uncomfortable when I can't understand what's being said." Be prepared for them to be defensive initially, but open dialogue could lead to a better understanding.
- Alternatives: Explore other salons that offer services in English or have staff members who are comfortable communicating in both languages.
Remember, it's essential to balance your comfort with cultural sensitivity. While it's okay to feel uncomfortable, directly confronting them without context might not be the best approach. Consider the above options and choose what feels most suitable for you.