As most of you know, I work in a construction plan center. I have worked there since my junior year of high school.
That being said, I would
never claim to "know it all," or even pretend that I do. There is much about this business that I still don't know or understand, but I'm willing to learn and be taught about it. Generally, I do anything that's asked of me within reason, and I find something to do if there's nothing for me to do. If I can't, I go home.
So. I'm the one that sits up front in our office. You'd think that I'm just a receptionist, but I'm not at all. I rarely answer the phones, if ever, and I don't really carry messages. I'm responsible for signing for packages from UPS, Fed-Ex, USPS, and any couriers that are bringing us documents. I manage all the documents up front, and make sure that contractors/ couriers sign out for what they pick up, and keep track of it all electronically as well. I sheet list, and do the planholders lists. (Yes, I realize you might not understand all that, but I'm just saying what I do). And yeah, it's not the most important job ever, but I
do value it, and I do my best every day!
Now, I realize that most people could easily knock off several I.Q. points and assume I don't have a brain in my skull since I sit up front, because after all - I
must be stupid, since I'm a receptionist.
But, contrary to
that belief, I would like to think I have enough brains to know what I'm doing. If I don't, I ask. I'm not above being humble, ever.
Yesterday, someone came in and had 2 sets of documents to be posted to their website that my company manages. This guy, who has never seen me before, had the audacity to assume I was a moron.
"Now, you know where this goes, don't you honey?" I realize I can't convey tone, but he was patting his documents and tilting his head to the side and speaking as if I were 3.
Since those who are reading this blog know me, the worst thing you can do to me is belittle and patronize me.
All I said was, "Yeah. I'll take care of it. Thanks."
Turns out, my boss heard the whole thing. I know she tells me all the time that most people will assume women know nothing about the construction industry - and I'm no feminist - but it still cut deep. I don't care
who you are, what you do or whom you're speaking to: Keep your assumptions to yourself!
In conclusion, you're barking up the wrong tree if you're going to walk up to anyone, and patronize them. If anything, assume they've been put there for a
reason. Additionally, you are welcome to visit the complaint department if you have a problem with this approach.
It's a mile outside of the radius of wherever I am.
