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Then what's problem? Simply this: relative to time and energy he has invested in his job, Mr Brown is underpaid. Period.
But a few weeks ago, he took bull by horns.
Knocking on Mr Thompson's door, he explained that, in long run, a hefty raise would be in company's interest as much as his own. In return, moreover, he would be very happy to take on extra responsibilities.
Our COO seemed more than sympathetic. The vice president in charge of budget was out of country at that moment, but Mr Thompson promised to raise matter immediately on VP's return. In all probability, his consent would be a mere formality.
Today is day that has been set down for verdict to be delivered.
The butterflies in our supervisor's stomach give way to cautious optimism as he enters his superior's office. He has faith in justice of his cause, and isn't Mr Thompson on his side?
''Ah, Mr Brown, good to see you!''
Mr Thompson's warm smile suddenly freezes in mid-air. His face seems to change color - or perhaps we're just imagining it?
''Ahem...Yes...'' He pauses for proverbial two seconds that seem like an eternity. What's matter? Has Mr Thompson, who never forgets anything, only just remembered something important?
''Look, I'm sorry, I didn't have a chance to discuss that matter with Mr Hodgkinson yet, but I have some important information in connection with our machinery problems. Can you make a note of a few things?''
But Mr Brown, epitome of conscientiousness, is as human as next person. He's hardly in a state for mental notes.
The kind of emotional blackout work supervisor is now experiencing is an obstacle to effective communication as real as it's intangible.
It's no less of a barrier than noise of a pneumatic drill punctuating conversation of two people in street. -----------
Copyright, Azriel Winnett. All rights reserved.
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Azriel Winnett is the creator of Hodu.Com - Your Communication Skills Portal . This popular Web destination helps you enhance your communication skills at all levels - in business and the professions, in marriage and the family unit and on the social scene. New articles and tutorials added weekly.