patndoris TechnoGeek

I’ve been asked to do a lot of things at work - but taking my shirt off? That was a new one! I guess there’s a little explaining to do about that one huh? It just wouldn’t be right to leave it at that.

We had a company event at ESPN Zone in downtown Baltimore. It was one of those make the customers feel all warm and fuzzy about the company things. We had hats and shirts made up special for the event. We also showcased some vendor products, and included the vendor name on the hats and shirts. In return for the promotion, the vendor helps defray the cost of the items. (That is, as long as we can show we used their logo on the clothing.) Now, I didn’t actually attend the event. But, we had shirts left over and VP guy gave me one. 

The person who submits for the vendor reimbursement is a lovely older lady. She was the founders wife, and still works two days a week. Apparently no one got a picture or photocopy of the vendor logo on a shirt before they were all given out. She needed proof to send to our vendor. She spied me with my shirt on. She inquired if it was a shirt from the event. Upon my confirmation - she asked if I’d take my shirt off!!

What?! Huh? A moment of stunned silence followed. I was more than a little taken aback. The blank look on my face must have been priceless -  it was obviously enough to encourage her to quickly explain just why she was asking.

Oh! Yes, of course - just go in the ladies room, take it off, hide behind the door, reach around and hand the shirt out - all the while praying no one sees me.  Wait impatiently for someone to bring it back and then act like it was no big deal right? Not!! Way too many places for that little scenario to go very very wrong!

I suggested instead that we use a camera on a cell phone to take a picture, wirelessly email it, print it out and she could submit that instead. You should have seen the look of amazement on her face…You can do that?  Yep - sure can! And I did.

She was pleased as punch and I managed to avoid disrobing at work. Although, both of us took a bit of ribbing for several days over the whole thing. This whole conversation took place smack dab in the middle of the main office area. (I guess I should just be thankful no customers came in during this little exchange huh?)