June 11, 2007
First Time Outta the Gate
Well, I'm outta here for the day. Out to actually visit my customers. Face to face.
And I'll tell you what.....I'm a little nervous.
I don't have all the tools I need yet. And things are a bit "messed up" in this region of mine. I didn't realize the hostility that some of the customers feel towards us right now. Oh, it's understandable, but.....when you're dealing with this type of situation it's important to "get 'er done". I can't really do that yet, it takes time to figure it all out.
So, I worked on my layouts and suggestions. This morning, I'll grab a bite to eat and figure out pricing options so that I have everything right at hand, in one place when they ask any questions. However, I have to be prepared for any situation. They may not like my suggestions. Or, they may not be ABLE to execute what I have planned. It's pretty much a crap shoot.
You know that infamous "dream" where your standing in the middle of the street, naked? And everyone is pointing and laughing? Yeah, sorta kinda feels like that. And I don't mean in a good way.
Oh - I know it'll be fine. I'm dealing with an Amish furniture shop this morning, so at least I'm on familiar territory there. But, I also KNOW. I know what great business folks they are. I know you don't want to be on the other side of the table when they are "less than happy". Yeah, not so fun.
And please oh please oh please - I just hope I don't slip and cuss. Can you imagine????? Oh, and to make things worse, I found out last night that Daddy's oldest brother lives in that town. Yeah, Fun times. (I'm not their favorite niece)
So.....I'm outta here. I'm appropriately dressed (skirt to knee, blouse not cut too low). I have my paperwork at the ready, and Lana has a full tank of gas. A bit over three hours south of here.
But tell me....What sane, responsible woman would be this scared of an Amishman?!?!? There's just somethin' "Off" about that.
It's not like they'll chase me outta the store with a pitchfork.
Well, at least I hope not.......
Posted by Tammi at June 11, 2007 06:48 AM | TrackBackThe only time I have the naked dream is when... well this isni't that kind of blog.
As for fear of the Amish. Well I've had few business dealings witht hem, however on the occasions that I have, they have been very shrewed. I could see being nervous.
But you'll do fine. Just don't tell any of THOSE jokes.
Posted by: Contagion at June 11, 2007 07:30 AMKick butt and take names. They'll quickly discover the shining star that you are and that while you will do what's best for your business, you'll make sure that their business in that mix as well.
You'll do great! And remember, the Amish have the beach down here! (Of course it's just a little lake bed, but it does have a sand perimeter, so I guess that's the beach part.) lol!
Posted by: Lee Ann at June 11, 2007 07:43 AMGood luck and have fun!!
Posted by: Richmond at June 11, 2007 09:25 AMI just noticed a new store down the road in DeKalb when I went shoe shopping on Saturday, called Back to Bed.
Is that helpful?
Posted by: Raging Mom at June 11, 2007 09:58 AMTammi,
Can you put your shoes on your kneecaps when you make your presentation? Then maybe you can pull this whole Amish thing off (You're kinda tall).
Knock 'em dead and don't cuss.
Posted by: Jerry at June 11, 2007 01:00 PM