A SNAPSHOT OF REALITY
The day-to-day events/routine of the work environment bring you in contact with a wide variety of individuals, especially in a school setting. One of the more ubiquitous things you experience is school picture day. That day entails lots of paper work for teachers and office staff, constant calls over the intercom for the next class to have their pictures made, and long waits in line as the photographer and/or his/her assistant makes the pictures. Even with the advent of the digital camera; the waits are long. Getting Jasmine or Derick to sit still can take a while.
Those same long lines present a great opportunity. You seize the opportunity to network with faculty and with the photographer. Networking is a vital practice as you never know when or what service you will need.
On this day you have spent much of your day as assistant principal coordinating the school day pictures. It has been so busy and hectic that you have not had a chance to talk to the photographer who is new this year. You met him when he came seeking the business and were hoping to get to chat with him today.
At the end of the day (after the school picture taking has been completed), you see him leaving the building and walk over to speak. “Good to see you, again, Mr. Williams. How did it go for you today?”
Mr. Williams replies, “For our first time here I thought it went well. The teachers were very helpful and the children were most cooperative.” In response to the complimentary remarks you respond, “I am glad to hear that. We are glad to have you working with us.”
Mr. Williams remarks, “I’m very glad to have the business and it did not cost me as much as I expected; just one case of bourbon and two season tickets for the college football season. I had heard that your principal would drive a lot harder bargain.”
You are so taken aback by Mr.Williams comments that he is out the door before you can reply.
What should you do?
Provide a Rationale for your action(s)
What impact does your decision have on your organization?
