Curse or a compliment

Yesterday, I had to interact with a guy who came to inspect my windshield for my insurance company.  He had walked up in the drive way and was doing his inspection when I came out of the house.  When he saw me, he said "Hi Mam!" and got really confused when I spoke.  Unfortunately I sound more like Bea Arthur without the female lilt.  He finished up the inspection and left.  I was giggling when my spouse asked what was so funny and I told her what happened with his embarrassment.  That when she said the words that most women may dread.  You look like your Mother.