Meeting old friends for the first time

Posted Wednesday, June 11, 2008 9:50 AM

I, too, had an 'unmet interest' - we had spoken over the phone, she had the same surname my sister had married into and I get bored easily at work and like to chat. So when the list of names came up on the training roster - I was intrigued to see my future honey's name on it. I admit, now, to sneaking a peek at her photo on the company intranet. Hmmmm.

It certainly didn't come close to capturing her.

When training day arrived, I was tired and not looking forward to teaching the very people who would be taking over my responsibilities once my company laid off myself and my team. But when she rounded the corner - I could barely speak, let alone worry about trivialities such as collecting severance or worrying about job markets. I actually don't recall doing any real training at all, now that I think back on it.

What ever I did (or didn't) teach, one thing was apparent. I had chemistry with this woman. She was sharp, asked smart questions and had no reservations about learning and trying new things. She hung out during her lunch hour - opting to learn the 'tricks of the trade' and to ask about me, my life and my pursuits. And if there is anything I love, it's talking about myself.

So, on her last day of training, when I discovered that she wasn't leaving NYC immediately, I covertly slipped her my phone number asking if she'd like to hang out and see a less 'touristy' side of the city...

- Groom