I bet you can't guess why...
No, it wasn't because I got cute new heels and could wear them to work.
No, it wasn't because I got complemented on my coffee making skills.
And, no, it wasn't even because I got to walk to the post office
twice (let me tell you, on these beautiful spring-like days, a
walk to the post office is a real treat!).
Like I said, you'll never guess.
I guess for the sake of this blog I should probably tell you why, or this will get boring pretty fast. Let's just say I have certain perks for being the administrative assistant/office manager of a small wealth management firm. Not only do I get to water the orchids and buy piggy banks and mouse pads online, but I get to screen sales calls and salesmen.
Now coming to the point... Yesterday, a fine gentleman from an office supply company came to our office and must have been horribly near-sighted because he blatantly disregarded our "NO SOLICITORS" sign in our front window (not to mention the one at the entrance to the office building).
For those who know me, you know that I'm a terribly nice person, and I hate awkwardness. I like to think I'm pretty good at putting people at ease.
This gentleman could not be helped! And I tried! Really, I did!
He started out awkward with his clammy handshake and his small talk, was awkward through the middle with his venting of the Olympics (let's just say he didn't win any points with me for that one), and ended awkwardly with an incredibly awkward and unfunny joke. He was so awkward that I started to feel awkward and self-conscious.
And boy could he TALK. About anything and everything. Plus all the too personal questions. And not to mention telling me that he was late to another appointment like I was keeping him there against his will when he was the one who stepped into my office to sign me up for his program. Seriously though.
You might be asking, Then why did you listen to him? Why did you give him the time of day?
Well, the answer is this: He was offering a really good deal on products I already used. It really was a win/win situation in that regard.
My favorite part of the day though is when my co-workers--who were eavesdropping the entire time--couldn't control their laughter because of all the ridiculousness. That sounds horribly mean, and maybe it is, but it was so awkward I couldn't tell if I wanted to laugh or cry.
Bless his heart. But seriously, there's a reason why charismatic people are better at sales--no one likes to feel awkward because of you!
Here's to random funny days at the office, that ease the stress of tax season! And to awkward sales reps who really are trying, but don't realize just how awkward they make everyone else feel.
2 comments:
Yikes. I almost feel sorry for the poor guy. Sounds pretty amusing though.
Also, I keep hearing people whine about how boring the Olympics are and it so bugs me. I mean, sure, curling is pretty dull. And cross country skiing doesn't really hold my attention, but downhill skiing? Aerials? Figure skating? Come on people this is so fun! I have been rather obsessively watching the Olympic coverage, but maybe I'm the only one. :) Anyway, hope today is a great Friday too!
That is a funny story. I love, random, akward moments! Thanks for sharing!
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