Bloopers 'n' Blunders

A Picture-Perfect Misunderstanding

Over the holidays, a friend and I toured three mansions in our area, each decorated for the season and staffed with guides in every room who shared the history of the homes and the families who built them. Mansions one and two were spectacular, beautifully decorated, with informative guides providing a running dialogue throughout our visits.

The third house was beautiful as well, but it lost a little of its glitter when we walked through the front door and saw a group taking a photo in front of a huge Christmas tree. We had been able to take pictures in the first two houses and assumed it was also permitted in this mansion, especially since photos were being taken right in front of one of the guides.

My friend was snapping a photo of the beautiful Christmas tree in the foyer when a nearby guide loudly shouted that no pictures were allowed. Everyone turned to look at us because of the volume of the guide's instruction, so we were a little caught off guard. Rather than say anything, my friend acknowledged the comment, and we simply walked away.

Customer Service Opportunity
Even if you are a volunteer, you have a responsibility to treat patrons with respect, explain why you're giving a direction, and be mindful of your surroundings when doing so. Though unpaid, you represent the organization you're serving and should behave in a way that reflects positively on everyone involved.

C. G.—Massachusetts

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