There are many things in life for which I just have to laugh. One of those is related to phone conversations. The following is a phone conversation I had at work – where I’m more connected (I’d like to say) than a street corner hooker selling crack. (3 phones, 3 different IRC Chats, 2 Skype Chats, an AOL account, 4 email in boxes, 3 ticketing systems, 2 shout boxes, and a partrige in a pair tree – if you can’t reach me – you’re not trying!). The Names have been changed to protect identity of the individual involved.

Ring Ring –
me: Good Morning, this is (department), (me) speaking.
Caller: Hi (me), XX here, I need help
Me – Ok how can I help you?
Him – is it ok if I call you?
Me – Yes, what’s up?
Him: I’m not interrupting?
Me: No, how can I help?
Him: You’re sure?
Me: Yes
Him: I have a problem.
Me: Ok
Him: I have a question for something with (project name) can you help me?
Me: Yes, can you tell me more?
Him: You’re sure I’m not interrupting and you don’t want me to email?
Me: You’re fine, I’m listening – tell me what’s up

* Caller finally tells me the problem and I answer – but continues asking at random interfals if it’s ok that he’s called me and am I sure he’s not interrupting something.

Thing is – to me – My Logic says:

a) Why would you call someone and then ask at least 4 times if it’s ok. If it’s not okay or you are interrupting, don’t you think I would have NOT answered?

b) If I was busy and couldn’t help you at that moment but had answered anyhow, don’t you think I would say “I’m busy with xx at this moment, can I call you back or would you please email and I’ll get to it when this is done?”

c) If after 2 assurances that it’s fine you called, why do you keep asking? Self-esteem issues perhaps?

Ahhh… it’s oneof those days, where all I can do is laugh and be puzzled.