How did "Hon" become so prevalent in this business

I agree. "Hon" is what they call you so they don't have to remember your name. it just sounds basic. Southern or not, it isn't cute.

BINGO, Kinder!

Hun is so they don’t have to keep track of any name or call out the wrong one.

Kind of odd to use "Hon." To me, it is a term of endearment for someone that you know well (a SO).

I enjoy calling a lady by her stage name. More than once a woman has told me her real name (I didn't ask) and it was much "more them" than their stage name. You can call me Huey....no, that's not my real name. LOL

For verification purposes, I find my real name is always needed.