Years ago, I went to see a psychic who was well regarded by a few friends. I had high expectations and couldn’t wait to see what she’d come up with. A group of us went together and my anticipation grew as each person walked out of the room excitedly sharing their stunning results. Finally my turn arrived and I practically shoved the previous person out of the way to get in the room with this amazing mystic. After paying her fee, I sat down with bated breath and proceeded to get one of the most bizarre readings I have ever had. She told me that I was a biker who danced on bars for men. And that people loved to watch me dance. Um…okay. And that was pretty much the extent of it. (Those who know me well know that a) I can’t dance worth a lick b) I hate motorcycles despite living in Harley land and c) wouldn’t be on a bar dancing as I also have a fear of heights.) I realized the woman gave me the reading based on my wardrobe – I was wearing a rather skimpy top and motorcycle boots!
When I walked out, everyone couldn’t wait to hear my take on the reading. And they were utterly disappointed that I was not impressed. I was never invited again to a psychic outing because they now assumed I was being snooty and critical because I am in the same line of work. C’est la vie.
Whenever you are in a “service” type of job (and I consider tarot/astrology/psychic work to fit this category), you are bound to get some tarot gripes from clients from time to time. It’s par for the course. I’ve had it happen too. It’s not as bad as you think and you can learn from your clients if you keep an open mind. A few strategies for some of the most common complaints can help you and your patrons to have a more satisfying experience.
Here’s the usual gripes I have heard about or dealt with personally and my solutions:
1. I can’t remember a thing that tarot reader said! This is a complaint that I have had from many clients when I first began reading tarot professionally (mainly because I talk VERY fast). I found keeping a notepad handy for note taking is a smart move. I also will recommend a client bring a tape and tape player to record their reading – which has been hugely successful for the more absent minded types. I don’t provide the machine or tapes myself because not everyone will have the same players, etc.
2. I forgot what I wanted to ask! A good way to avoid this is to suggest to your customers that they write down their questions before they come to see you. This way, they are assured they don’t walk out without the pertinent questions answered. I’ve learned this the hard way myself. Years ago, I was frantic about some situation and visited a reader for clarity. Well, I got there and forgot all about the big dramatic issue and walked out without asking one question about it! I was really mad at myself for that one. Lesson learned.
3. All my friends said this tarot reader was so great and she didn’t hit on one thing with me! Sadly, not everyone is a good fit. This can’t be helped. The energy may not be compatible and there is nothing the reader or client can do about it. I’m always more than happy to recommend another reader if I don’t feel the chemistry. Keep a list of your colleagues handy in case this situation arises. (I also recommend not confusing the reader by wearing skimpy tops and motorcycle boots unless you really are a biker! LOL)
4. The psychic told me that I had negative energy and wanted me to give them a bunch of money to remove a curse! I’ve had to undo more damage from these types of psychics and tarot readers than I care to discuss. They are a scourge on this industry! These con artists give this work a real black eye and for ethical readers, we are helpless to prevent it. However, you can educate people on this scam. Let your clients know that this is not an acceptable practice and that no one has the power to put a curse on them.
There are other potential issues of conflict but in all my years of work, these complaints were the most common. If you are a tarot reader, I’d love to hear what criticisms you have heard and how you dealt with it. Or if you’ve ever had a reading, what was your biggest grievance? Share your stories below in the comment section!
Blessings!
Theresa
© The Tarot Lady 2010 | Theresa Reed | https://thetarotlady.a.wpstage.net
Image from blogs.theage.com.au
I’m Theresa Reed (aka, The Tarot Lady). I’ve been a full-time tarot reader for 30+ years — which, in my industry, makes me pretty badass.
I’m definitely not your average Tarot expert — I drop the F-bomb, I quote rappers, and I’m obsessed with pop culture + reality TV. Folks come to me for straight-talk + tough-love — without the woo-woo fluff. 
