George Bernard Shaw
Karen, technical writer, large financial institution, when asked to update the user's manual for its computer system - a long-term project right up her alley - she was delighted.
On her first morning, just settled into the pleasant, functional office the company provided, the department head walked in.
"Jack," she greeted him, "nice digs. I'm moved in now and rarin' to go. When can I start?"
"Well, that's what I wanted to talk to you about, Karen. We've got a problem. The programmers hit some snags and the system's not up yet. Go down there and help 'em get the glitches out, will you?"
"Uh-oh. Say, Jack, I'd love to help, really I would, but that's not my field. I don't know anything about programming."
"Hey," he said, "I've got a problem here and I have to get it fixed. You're a consultant, and consultants are supposed to know everything. Help me out, will ya?"
"Jack, I'm a technical writer, not a programmer. Look, if someone paints cars for a living, that doesn't mean he's a mechanic and can fix the engine."
That only made him angry. "Okay, Karen, if that's the way you wanna play it. But know this: I don't like people who play 'that's not my job' games with me!" He stormed out of the office.
Upset, Karen called the recruiter and explained the situation. He came down personally and talked to Jack, who just kept repeating, "Consultants are supposed to know everything and she wouldn't help." Karen's first day on the assignment was her last.
