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Old job Quote by Jen Lancaster

“This is a Lucent PBX with Audix voice mail, right? I used this kind at all of my old jobs, so I'm pretty familiar with them." Completely ignoring me, Pat continues to demonstrate every single one of the phone's features, half of which she describes incorrectly. I don't bother taking notes because…” quote by Jen Lancaster
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““This is a Lucent PBX with Audix voice mail, right? I used this kind at all of my old jobs, so I'm pretty familiar with them." Completely ignoring me, Pat continues to demonstrate every single one of the phone's features, half of which she describes incorrectly. I don't bother taking notes because I've used this system a thousand times. I have no need to transcribe an erroneous refresher course. "Hey, you should be writing this down." Like I said, I've used this system extensively and--" WRITE IT DOWN," Pat growls. "If you screw up the phone, Jerry's gonna be on my ass." No problem." I'm slowly learning to choose my battles and figure this isn't the hill I want to die on. I pull a portfolio out of my briefcase and begin to take notes. When the phone rings and Jerry isn't there to answer, you pick it up and hold it to your mouth like this. You say, 'Hello, Jerry Jenkins' office.'" I write: When phone rings, place receiver next to your word hole and not your hoo-hoo or other bodily aperature, and say, "Shalom.””

Jen Lancaster

About This Quote

A speaker describes frustration with a colleague's overbearing instructions while dealing with familiar technology, learning to pick battles and adapt communication style.

In simple terms: Frustration with a demanding coworker and adapting to their style.

Key Takeaway

Choose battles wisely and adapt communication.

Themes

frustration communication workplace dynamics adaptation

Mood

irritated determined reflective

Type

advice personal anecdote workplace.

When to use this quote

  • office meetings
  • training sessions
  • customer service calls
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

authority power dynamics learning stress management

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you assert boundaries without escalating?
  • What strategies help maintain composure under pressure?
A Different Perspective

Colleague may have valid points about accuracy; ignoring may cause errors.

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