As an employee of a major “Big Box” store I get to peruse a list from which I might choose a local dentist to perform my covered dental requirements. A wonderfull benefit indeed. I also get to witness the angst and angers of the poor retail public when they become victimised by the tool I use to help them purchase their retail needs….the computer.
A few weeks ago I chose from a computer provided list and made an appointment with a local D.D.S. and circled his name and address as well as penning in the appropriate time and date. The evening before I listened to a voice mail reminding me of my mornings 9:45 appointment and so at precisely 9:32 a.m. I presented myself before the young receptionist of Dr. Macintosh who presented me a frightened stare before bleating out …..
” I don’t understand…..there is nothing in the system at all. I don’t even know who called you. We must be suffering another computer glitch.”
So, as my own customers at the “Big Box” would have done, I became firm and reminded the poor lass that I had taken a day from work and created a whole days schedule around this and that perhaps…….
“Perhaps I should find an office that might prove a little more efficient.”
Proving herself to in fact be a model of efficiency she banished me briefly to a waiting room chair and National Geographic magazines. I admired her abilities as I overheard her skillfull use of the telephone to convince others to come to their appointments later in order that I might get my 9:45 while simultaniously rearranging everyones expected schedule in the office of Dr. Macintosh. One and a half hours later and completely satisfied I left that office to find a new message left on my phone during my time in the chair. It was the same voice that only the night before had called to confirm what I thought was my just ended appointment.
“Hello Richard, this is Michelle at “Dr. Harpers” office. We do hope everything is all right and if you would like to reschedule your missed appointment please call us back.” ……. oops
