Up In The Air About It

(I’m filling in as receptionist at a firm where I’ve never worked before.)

Me: *on the phone* “Thank you for calling [Company]. How may I help you?”

Caller: “Yes. Someone called me from there.”

Me: “Okay. Do you know the name of the person who called?”

Caller: “Um… I think it was [first name]?”

Me: “Do you have a last name?”

Caller: “No. Why did she call me?”

Me: “I’m not sure, but I’ve found her name, so I’ll transfer you to her.”

Caller: “NO. I want you to tell me. Why did she call me?”

Me: “I’m not sure, but if I could transfer you over, I’m sure she’ll be able to tell you.”

Caller: “But I’m in the airport.”

Me: “Okay. Should she call you back later?”

Caller: “No. Why did she call me? Is it a job offer? I’m not looking for a job. I’m just starting a new job.”

Me: “Well, I’m not sure why she called. But I could transfer you to her—”

Caller: “NO! I’M AT THE AIRPORT WAITING TO GET ON AN AIRPLANE, SO I CAN’T TALK RIGHT NOW. WHAT DOES THIS COMPANY EVEN DO? WHY ARE YOU CALLING ME?”

Me: “Well, I didn’t call you. But if you’ll just let me transfer you over, I’m sure she can explain why she called.”

Caller: “WHY DON’T YOU KNOW WHAT THE COMPANY DOES?! WHY CAN’T YOU TELL ME WHY SHE CALLED?! I’M IN AN AIRPORT! I DON’T HAVE TIME TO TALK! WHY DID SHE CALL ME?”

Me: “I’m sorry, I just don’t know why she called you. But if I could just transfer you.—”

Caller: “I’M IN AN AIRPORT!” *click*