you wanna tell me why i'm waiting for someone

Since I’ve read this paper, I’ve been far more patient about standing in line. During my book signings, I’ve been very gratified to have people tell me, “I had so much fun talking to the people in line!” In fact, in some situations, waiting in line is part of the experience. The more people engage with each other, the less they notice the wait time.

You’ll stand in line longer to buy an iPad than to buy a toothbrush.Ĩ. You’ll wait longer to talk to a doctor than to talk to a sales clerk. The more valuable the service, the longer the customer will wait.

Often, when people are treated out of sequence, it’s helpful to have them be served elsewhere - e.g., people giving customer service by phone shouldn’t be in the same room as people giving service in person.ħ. But sometimes certain people need attention more urgently, or certain people are more valuable customers. The “FIFO” rule (first in, first out) is a great rule, when it works. I get anxious, for instance, when I’m waiting on a crowded subway platform, when there’s no clear, fair way to determine who gets on the next car. Unfair waits are longer than equitable waits.

You wanna tell me why i'm waiting for someone