On first name terms

My first proper job was as a computer salesman at a big chain of electrical shops. During my induction the general manager introduced himself as John Clark.

I had just left school, and my only retail experience was from watching reruns of the 1970s British sitcoms Are You Being Served and Open All Hours, so I had no idea whether I should call him John or Mr Clark. I spent the next week addressing him as “Excuse me” and desperately listening out for cues from my colleagues.

Seven months into my first job …