Member-only story
There’s No Such Thing as a Free Dinner
I fell into the trap…
Sherry was a pushy co-worker at one of my first secretarial jobs, years ago. She didn’t know me well, and yet, asked me personal questions as if she did. Or as if she wanted to get to know me better. That should have been my first clue. When she found out I wanted to get into the marketing field, she leaned right in.
“Why don’t you come over for dinner?” Sherry began, “We have a friend who has a marketing business, and I’d be happy to introduce you.”
“What kind of business?” I asked. Feeling that this was a legit question, unlike her inappropriate ones.
“You’ll see!” She beamed. “I don’t want to ruin it. He needs to tell you! He’s the EXPERT! How’s Thursday?” Sherry didn’t give me a moment to hesitate.
“I-uh-I-uh…” I didn’t know what to say. I actually was having a real hard time entering the marketing world. So I gave in. “Uh-sure. Anything I can bring?” I tried to sound enthusiastic. But I was leery.
“Just yourself!” Sherry smiled. It seemed too good to be true…
On Thursday, Sherry stopped by my desk at 4:55 pm. Probably to make sure I wouldn’t sneak away at 5:00. “Ready to go?” She chirped.
