It seems based on the various responses that a person can't win no matter how he/she addresses a person.
When I lived in Memphis a secretary explained that her husband referred to her as Miss Barbara. And children in Memphis responded with Yes, sir and yes mam. It appears this is a common practice in the south
In my personal view its not what one says but how they say it. If its done with respect then it doesn't manner to me.
Further sales people , etc are taught that people like to hear their first names spoken. apparently based on some of the responses that is not always true.
I do believe that men should not greet women whom they do not or hardly know with "darling". Now that is too personal.
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