Proper address

[ktheodos]

So ladies...if a guys trying to get your attention (i.e. in public), not for a date or anything but just to chat (or tell you your backpack is open or something), what's your preferred way of being addressed? "Ma'am?" "Miss?"

[candyterrius]

I don’t mind either. Both are respectable. I’m not that picky.

[TXmomma]

Either one of those is fine with me, they're both more respectful than other terms some guys like to use.

[sak4kat]

I'm not picky any longer either.  There was a time when I was called Ma'am and I was truly offended...gasp someone actually thought of me as being old enough to be a Ma'am.  I think the first time was when I was ordering a chocolate shake for my daughter when she was still in diapers.  It took me a few years to adjust and just face the fact that I am older and for anyone younger it is merely a sign of respect and courtesy.  A trait that seems to be getting lost in the times.

[dreamyxo]

I prefer miss.  Ma'am sound like I am older and I'm not that old.  I was called ma'am once when I was in my early 20's and I was very offended.  I think ma'am is more for older women but I still wouldn't call an older woman ma'am either.  I think ma'am is more of a southern term.  If I don't know someone's name regardless of age I still prefer to use miss but that's just me.

Also it depends on who is calling me ma'am.  I come in contact with military personnel almost weekly so I don't mind them calling me ma'am because I know that's how they were trained so that doesn't bother me as much as a civilian doing it.

[csomma]

Since I'm really not a Miss anymore, I've learned to accept Ma'am. It is a nice show of manners either way.

[queenofnines]

I find both odd, as I'm married, so "miss" doesn't technically apply. But I am also not old enough to be a "ma'am". I prefer ma'am I suppose, because I'd rather be respected as an equal than talked down to like a sweet young thang.

[jolena23]

Either is fine.

[timandvicky1]

Not picky, if they are being helpful and respectful, no problem...either.

[sdenimandlace1]

I guess either is good with me. When they say ma'am I always look behind me to see who is there.