Grateful, for once
I know I’ve complained a couple of times about being treated/feeling like a youngling.
But today, I was grateful to play the “young and inexperienced” card by saying to someone, “Did I submit the application incorrectly? Is that why it is taking so long? Is there anything else I can do?”
I really wanted to say, “You’ve been sitting on this SIMPLE application for TWO weeks. You are holding my client back from starting their demolition. What the eff is the holdup?! I know it shouldn’t take this long!!!”
Okay, being rude is NEVER acceptable, no matter your age. But, come on.
Side Story: Yesterday at work, I was sitting at my desk (diligently working) and fantasizing thinking “Soup sounds so good. Why don’t Steven and I ever make soup at home?”
Imagine my surprise when I came home, and Steven had a big pot of homemade soup on the stove, filling our house with wonderful aromas! THIS MAN CAN READ MY MIND. Is that good, or bad?
Themocracy
I use “I’m stupid” or “I have a terrible memory” as an excuse at least two or three times a week. Anything that allows you to ask the question you really wanted to ask without sounding like an asshole is a good thing.
My wife and I do the mind-reading thing all the time. Thankfully, it’s usually a good thing, like soup.
Huh, I didn’t think that was the young card, just the asking/pushing by not pointing at them technique. 😉
I’m the same as Ajooja. I totally use the “did I submit this to you or not? I forget” card a LOT!
I do that too! They hear = “did I do this correctly” IN your head = “I know I did everything right, now what the hell is your problem?”
Hubby and I read our minds all the time…I think that’s the difference between just being a “husband” and being a “soul mate”.
Reading minds is a sign of being on the same page. That’s a good thing, IMO
Mindreading between a couple is usually a good thing. As for the other, there are always benefits to being tactful and playing ignorant at times because sometimes other people are in a position of power and we have no control over it. It’s easier to work with them when they don’t feel you are coming across as accusatory.
OH, it’s rare and yes, it’s a very good thing. Your guy sounds like a gem! Good for you!
To get things moving I ask if there is anything they need from ‘our’ side (because we did our part)… and then, and this almost always works, say “its okay if it is not complete, just send me what you have” you may not get it immediately but they will drop what they are doing to do it for you- because chances are it’s still in their ‘to do’ pile.
I think that approaches regardless of age. I use it! Makes them not feel defensive. I am not sure I want anyone reading my mind. 😉
You made soup appear! With your brain! You may well be my new hero :).
Cxx
mind reading is great!!! r and i didn’t have this “ability” but dc and i do, i love it, it’s phenomenal!!! you and Steven are t-o-o cute together!!!
heh, the young / confused card is SO USEFUL. especially when your problem is not being either youg OR confused, it’s that you’re dealing with MORONS. ;-P
ajooja – I worry about asking the same thing over and over. But I am forgetful; I’m learning so much, it’s impossible to remember everything.
Kyra – I just think that anyone who had “done it before” would know it is their internal bs. I could act like I didn’t like that was it 😉
Hilly – It’s a good trick to use!
Amy – EXACTLY!!! WHAT THE HELL IS YOUR PROBLEM is what I was thinking!
martymankins – I am thinking it is a good thing too.
teeni – So true. They have the power to make this thing go through, and I just depend on them. So… I’ve gotta keep my cool.
javaqueen – I am sure you have a gem as well 🙂
Ryan – Could you possibly be referring to dealing with engineers? 😉
sizzle – And the less defensive, the better!
Claire – But can I do it more than once?!
CourtneyInControl – I am happy you found someone who has that capability! 😀
Alice – Yep. MORON. There seem to be quite a few around…!
Being able to turn things around like that is an artform. You want to explode on someone you know is stalling out something you are working on, be it intentional or accidental. But if you can find a way to subtly nudge them to action without pissing them off, it’s always a good thing. Remember that skill throughout your professional and personal lives and you’ll go far.
Nicely played, Grasshopper.
kapgar – Ha ha, thanks 🙂 I hope I can always keep my cool that way!