I learned the NATO alphabet for no better reason than it seemed useful over noisy communication channels, such as when on the phone in a data center with the HV

I learned the NATO alphabet for no better reason than it seemed useful over noisy communication channels, such as when on the phone in a data center with the HVAC going hard. And so it has proved. That was maybe fifteen years ago; I'm so accustomed now, that I'll use it reflexively with everyone. Anecdotally, I have observed that certain professions are inclined to treat those that use it with more respect.