On the way to work today, I listened to the on-air personalities of Hits 1 discuss something that really “bugged” them. The guy who led off the topic described his annoyance at those who give nicknames to people they don’t know. He then went on to list common generic nicknames such as “boss,” “hoss,” “buddy,” and “chief.”

However, the group of commentators focused mostly on “boss.” Aside from the term being disrespectful and annoying, they also called it “condescending.”

When it comes to my personal preference, I don’t mind generic nicknames. And, actually, out of the ones listed above, I don’t mind “boss” most of all. In fact, I actually like it.

Whenever someone calls bestowed on me in a customer service situation. For example, when I go to Take 5 for an oil change, the employees there will usually call me “boss.”

In my view, “boss” is the new “sir.” Of course it depends on the tone used, but mostly I am called “boss” in a humble way that conveys I am a valued customer and what I say is going to be granted. From the way that I see it, even though I am not a real boss in the context, the term seems to shift power to me. I appreciate it.

So if you are someone who uses the term “boss” a lot to address people you don’t know, please don’t let the people from Hits 1 deter you from doing so. You can call me “boss” any day. Don’t Blink.