Originally Posted by Randeman
I've not encountered this myself, but I don't think it would matter. My last name is usually mispronounced so I'd rather be called by my first name as it's pretty simple. What I hate is when some professionals, especially doctors, feel free to use my first name but are offended when I use theirs. I may not have quite as much education as a doctor, but respect is respect. If you expect me to call you Dr. So-and-so, be prepared to be corrected when addressing me by my first name.
When I'm at the doctor's, no matter how old/ young the doctor is, I always use the porfessional title. When I am at synagogue, I always refer to the clergy by title. When I am on the phone with an airline rep, I always refer to them as "Mr/ Ms." Common courtesy.
Now, outside of these roles, I'll call the doctor by his first name on the tennis court, the rabbi by her first name over coffee, and the agent by his first name if we socialize.
I have always expected the same in return.