It's been awhile since I've been asked to cover the phones at work. I am not in a position that has to worry about that responsibility, but I have been in previous jobs.
I was the person who "got the paper stuck out of the copier" and "changed the toner" because nothing would print, and worried about who got what message. I was secretary, or clerk.... or administrative executive. It's all the same except for the pay. I was the person who had to plan my entire day around phone coverage.
That's why I love my current job. No secretary or clerical issues.... except for having to help cover the phones occasionally.
I've covered several times now, but there was never a call. Until a few months ago.
I agreed to "watch" the phones for a coworker while she "ran down the hall" and ended up talking to her the entire time until the phone rang.
I answered with the appropriate center name and the woman on the other end asked me a question that I had no clue how to answer. I told my coworker (who was still standing in my door) and she told me how to answer it.
After the call, I decided to write down the number to the answer (another FSU center) in case another call ever came in.
Fast forward several months and I'm cleaning my office. I come across the number to that center and decide that I really don't need it. So I toss it.
Fast forward to last week. I had to cover the phones again.... from 1 to 3pm. I didn't receive a single call until about 2:30. The woman wanted to know how to contact that VERY same center.
I stuttered for a bit then walked down to Gina's office (the main phone answerer) and sure enough found the number I needed.
Note to self: Never forget your roots.
Before... and After
8 years ago
