It’s one of those Sundays – electrician fixing things; pest-control guys over for preventive termite treatment.
Surrounded by mess, as we still are, I am writing this impromptu post, sharing an interesting learning drawn from a seemingly casual interaction between the electrician, the pest control guy and me.
Our electrician, who is really our Man Friday, just got back from the village after an extended trip and has been busy fixing up a dozen things at home, since yesterday. However, since he had left an important task unfinished elsewhere, he sought my permission to return again tomorrow morning and finish the remaining work at our place. I agreed and was briefing him about pending items on my list…
He and I were trying to identify a suitable spot for my late uncle’s picture on our ‘family wall’, when the pest control guy jumped in… suggesting a spot.
In my scheme of the things the place was totally inappropriate. He had no idea whose picture it was, he had no idea about family hierarchy or protocol. If at all, he was merely concerned with aesthetics. Needless to add, his suggestion was rejected and additionally he earned a dirty look from me.
Soon after he had left, I found myself thinking about how often ‘consultants’ make the same mistake.
It’s oh-so-tempting to comment upon tasks/ issues, not part of the mandate, just because they are happening around. Comment, without any consideration about the background, context or ,maybe, even relevant expertise. Often the client gives a dirty look, for the advice wasn’t really sought.
