Conversation in an electronics store
One would think that a prerequisite for working in a store (any store) would be an ability to listen. In an ideal world one might hope for a passing acquaintance with the product area in question. The relationship between my patience with sales “assistants” (I use the term guardedly) and my age is an inverse one. Thus it was that the following conversation left me fuming…
Me: Do you have an adapter or cable that would enable me to plug my computer microphone into the USB port?
Sales Assistant: No.
Me: OK. Do you have a microphone with a USB connection?
SA: You want a computer microphone?
Me: Yes. One with a USB connection.
SA: Yes we have this great range in this cabinet. That one is especially good. I’ll get the key and open the case so I can show it to you.
Me: But that’s an mp3 player.
SA: Yes. Did you want an actual microphone?
Me: Yes. That’s why I asked for a microphone.
SA: OK, let me look in the catalogue.
Me: You’re looking at headsets.
SA: That’s right. That one has a USB connection.
Me: But I want a microphone.
Me: Look: that’s the kind of thing I want. See that picture of a microphone? I want something that looks just like that, only with a USB connection instead of the normal connection.
SA: Well, I don’t think you’ll get a microphone with a USB connection.
Me: Why not?
SA: Because it already comes with a different connection.
Me: (Edging towards the exit.) Right.
SA: I mean, what do you actually want it for?
Me: Recording stuff.
SA: Yes, you want a microphone.
Me: Quite. Well, thanks for your help. Goodbye.
SA: Goodbye.
Now, were I as incompetent in my own job as this fool is in his, I’d be on the unemployment register. I can’t be the only person to suffer that sort of uselessness at his hands, so how come he is still there?
It’s quite clear, judging by how much this has wound me up, that I need a break! So next week, apart from responding to a Government consultation, I am taking a holiday, which means that my website won’t be updated daily as it usually is, and may not be updated at all.
In my blissfully incommunicado state I shall be working on the Coming of Age ebook, which is looking great.
Here’s an interesting sign I came across last week:
In most places, if you park illegally they clamp your car….
Have a great week!
Comments
ah, Terry, we all have the same issue. the stores have not caught up with us trailblazers yet...they market to the masses...who can't do what you can do! I would recommend what is easiest (did i mention i a, lazy?) shop online for one. try tigerdirect
Posted by: mrsdurff | August 22, 2007 11:15 AM
I think we all need to take a step back periodically ... Perhaps you should look to some guest bloggers... I have seen several well known bloggers take this approach that refreshes them while keeping their audiences interested. I took the summer off (mostly because my wife gave birth to our 2nd child) and I feel very rejuvenated. I don't think I will take such a long break next time, but it was important I think.
Posted by: Scott Meech | August 23, 2007 2:30 AM
Thanks, Lisa. I will try that store, or one like it. I was saying to someone this evening I'll have to buy it online, having tried in several shops now.
Posted by: Terry Freedman | August 23, 2007 10:48 PM
Thanks, Scott. Actually, I do have a few guest writers lined up, but not on a regular basis. But I was thinking of doing something like that, and Elaine (wife) has been on at me for ages about it, so perhaps I should.
Posted by: Terry Freedman | August 23, 2007 10:50 PM
Just think if you didn't know what you wanted you would have purchased the wrong microphone or headset and had to have gone back to the store! Always look on the bright side.
Posted by: cheryl oakes | August 27, 2007 12:31 AM