Ever seen the movie, "The Devil Wears Prada?" Its my life right now. Only, fortunately, Peter works even more than I so he's not pressuring me to quit like Andi's boyfriend in the aforementioned flick. Quite the contrary, he couldn't be happier that I work for the MAN. At least I'm bringing in cash and we're making our bills. Capisci? So, I am the receptionist/ admin for Hanesbrands, Inc. This umbrella company houses the clothing designers for Hanes, Champion, Just My Size, among others. I order all the supplies, sign for and deliver all packages (about 50+ a day), make copies, grind special imported coffee for the Boss Man, get his lunch, get the other lady's lunch, and essentially troubleshoot. In typical New York style, there was no official training for this job, so I learn everything in the moment, naturally making numerous mistakes as I figure out how often we change the water filter, how many boxes of paper we order weekly, when to get fresh flowers for particular clients, and how many gallons of milk we go through a week. Its mayhem, but sometimes I have a quiet moment to surf the internet or update my blog. Take right now for example.
Most days, my thoughts are dominated by the concept that I'm 36 and I'm grinding coffee. !? Did I just go back in time 15 years!? When people ask me about my employment, I dread the inevitable - "well, this could be a launch pad for something better," or "you gotta start somewhere"... huh? Am I getting career advice from people in their 20's? They mean well. There's just nothing to say. So, its better if people don't ask. I truly am grateful to be employed in this economy and ultimately, its all for Peter's career and he's the love of my life.
Oh, and the thing about the DEVIL... I actually have 5 people that I "report" to and they're all pretty nice. Except for one lady who makes me do petty errands for her, like get her lunch or put the candles in the Menorah each day. If she's Jewish, then wouldn't it have more meaning for HER to do it than me? Whatever. Have you ever had an experience like this? A so-called demoralizing arrangement that robbed you of your "dignity" in some way, but you had to keep at it?
Oh, and did I mention that I have the privilege of refilling the candy dish each day and that I got to decorate the Christmas tree? Yippity skippity.
8 comments:
Allison, that is hilarious! Sorry. Not for you, huh? But you make it sound so good! You know, I have had some of those demoralizing experiences and would HATE the advice...keep at it girl, it could be a launch pad to something bigger! :)
I hear you. Working on an assembly line during the summer AFTER graduating with my Bachelors seemed to be demoralizing. I'm sorry--but you've got a good perspective and you're so supportive of Peter!
Remember all of it, write a tell-all book with names thinly desguised- sell the film options for the book (once it becomes a best seller), have the film get nominated for Oscar Awards, take Peter to the Oscars- see it's all worth it. We need to meet up when we're out in June (8-14th). I'm bringing a group of 72.
Love your blogs, Allison. You're such a good writer--you really need to write a book about your experiences in the big city. Glad you got a job--hope it turns into something better.
At least you are having a good attitude about it! I am still chuckling after your....and I quote"Yippity, skippity..." comment. At least if you fill the candy jar you can put your favs in????? Kris
Sounds so much like my job when we lived in NY! I got to go get coffee and bagels and be asked "Are you out of your f*&K%n? mind??!!"
You have a great attitude and knowing you, you'll find humor in all of it and be happy anyway! Love you!
Update: The so-called "devil(s)" gave me a Christmas gift! Actually three directors gifted me. I got a candle, some fancy barrettes, and a bottle of red wine. :) So, maybe I exaggerated in my post...
I think that sounds like a great job! I mean for New York and in this economy. It sounds refreshing compared to my Omaha day to day! Playing with toddler all day is WONDERFUL for sure, but a bit ground hogs dayish (and definately not intellectually stimulating). Your job sounds like fun! You will remember the experience your whole life!
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