Work vent: Why can't people answer the question they are asked?

[Chicago526]

I work as a corporate travel agent, meaning I set up business travel for people in my company and that do business with my company. I deal mostly with professionals with post graduate degrees, or their assistants.

So why is it that these supposedly smart, professional, educated people can't answer a simple question with a simple answer?

For example:

Q: "What is the name of the meeting your are attending?"
A: "The meeting starts on the 5th"

Q: "What is a day time phone number where we can reach you?"
A: My frequent flyer number is 12345..."

Q: "What time do you want the return flight"
A: "Sometime in the morning"
Q: "Would you like the 8 AM, the 10 AM, or the 11:30 AM?"
A: "Do you have anything around 2 PM?"

If it was every once in a while, I wouldn't care. But I swear I have situations like this at least 10 times a day. I guess I should chalk it up to people just not paying attention.

Please, the next time you're on the phone with someone and they ask a question, please listen to what they are asking, and don't assume or try to anticipate what it is they want.

Phew...I feel a little better!

 

[L107ANGEL]

I feel your pain!!! I have to ask
a. Name? Most know this
b. Marital status? You would be surpised of those who stumble on that one.
c. Any accidents or violaltions? Oh the tales they weave.

 

[MouseWorshipin]

Yes, but only if it were orange.

 

[Miss Kelly]

OT: Chicago526, Despite the people who can't or won't listen, it sounds like you have a great job. I want it!! I've always wanted to work in the travel industry, but after 9/11 that dream disappeared (for now).

 

[Chicago526]

OT: Chicago526, Despite the people who can't or won't listen, it sounds like you have a great job. I want it!! I've always wanted to work in the travel industry, but after 9/11 that dream disappeared (for now).

It's bounced back since 2001 (that was a scarey time for job security, let me tell you!), you can find work on the corporate side or in niche markets like luxery travel or specialty group cruises. I wouldn't rely on it for a family's main source of income, the industry is just too unpredictable at this point, but for a talented full time agent you can make a decent second income.

Like any other job, there are some days you just want to pull your hair out, in fact this morning was rather challenging for me (hence why the "stupid answer" calls got me more anoyed than usuall) but I do like my employer and my job on most days, and there are a lot of people that can't say that!

 

[Grandpa Simpson]

Sadly, most people have to multitask these days to stay gainfully employed, so while they are answering questions, they are probably working through email, a spreadsheet, a report in Word, etc. Not that this is a valid excuse... just a possible explanation for why they may not be 100% focused on a phone call about their travel. I agree it's rude not to give the caller at least the majority, if not all, your attention. Sorry you have to deal with this.

 

[Miss Kelly]

It's bounced back since 2001 (that was a scarey time for job security, let me tell you!), you can find work on the corporate side or in niche markets like luxery travel or specialty group cruises. I wouldn't rely on it for a family's main source of income, the industry is just too unpredictable at this point, but for a talented full time agent you can make a decent second income.

Like any other job, there are some days you just want to pull your hair out, in fact this morning was rather challenging for me (hence why the "stupid answer" calls got me more anoyed than usuall) but I do like my employer and my job on most days, and there are a lot of people that can't say that!

Thanks for that information. Unfortunately, I need a main source of income before I can concentrate on a second income. I'm looking for a job now.

I'm just curious, where might I look for openings in the corporate side of travel?