These days malls (in Mumbai) seem to let out the central space for promotions and events especially on week ends. The companies hosting the promotion seem to think the best way to get return for investing in the event is to do so at a decibel level which will reach out to every corner of the mall. What follows then is ear damaging decibel level. People bring infants to malls.The risk to infants is even higher. Old people with hearing problems would have a tough time making conversation while in the mall.
The event at a local mall yesterday was aimed at kids. The health of the children is seriously at risk to be exposed to such decibel levels. The store I was at had glass doors. Yet the sound of the promotion pervaded drowning the sound of the music in the store. It was impossible to browse through other store windows due to the cacophony. This is counter productive for the mall and the stores.
Yours truly asked for directions to the mall office. It was located in a corner of the building. Met the mall manager and shared my views. From her expression and reactions 2 things were clear :
1. This was the first time they (she and 2 other persons from her team ) were faced with the point of view that such a decibel level is a nuisance and a health risk.
2. No visitor to the mall had ever approached them to share such feedback.
In India we generally see 2 extreme reactions from retail customers – passively endure poor service/quality or aggression. The mid path of assertive , consistent feedback is a rarity. Especially if it means waiting few minutes to contact the store manager/ fill out a feedback form / call a help line of the company / email them.
Remember that businesses are not always responsive to feedback. Unless they see a critical mass of feedback they allow status quo to exist. Your feedback therefore is especially important if the situation is to change
Whether through action or inaction – we shape the environment we inhabit. Pl choose to influence it.
