How do these people have jobs?

I'm writing *another* story about composting and it requires an interview with a grocery store manager. So, I called the store and talked with a manager. Then, I called back a few days later to arrange a photo shoot, and he told me I had to call someone in corporate to get an ok on what he told me, and for the photo. I did, not because I needed to really, I already got what I wanted, but I didn't want to get the guy in trouble.

My conversation this afternoon with the corporate pr agency for this high-end food store affectionately called Whole Paycheck, (after being disconnected twice and hearing the receptionist say CRAP!) went a little something like this:

Me: Hi, I'm calling in regards to W. H. who said I needed to get permission for a photo shoot, and an interview.

Corporate PR lady: Ok... you want to get an ok for a photo shoot at a store in Portland, and an interview?

Me: Actually, I've already done the interview, but if you have someone else there who'd like to speak on the store's mission and how it relates to the project, that would be great.

CPRL: Ok, I'll see what I can do.

Calls back 1 hour later.

CPRL: So we've arranged for an interview with W.H. on Mon. or Tues. of next week, and you can call him to arrange a photo shoot.

ME: Ok great. (Thinking that I just eliminated the need for CPRL).

CPRL: So, what time would be good for the interview next week?

Me: Actually, I already interviewed him. He gave me a lot of good information, and I have plenty to finish the story with. What I really need is just an Ok for the photog to arrange the shoot. Can I use W.H. as the contact?

CPRL: Actually, uuhh, why don't I give you my (out of state) number and email, and have your photog call me when they are ready.

Me: Great. So, I'll go ahead and email my editor your name and contact info, and she can email it to the photographer, who will then call you, at which point you will call W.H. and then get back to the photographer about a photo shoot?

CPRL: Yes.

Me: Lordy, how much do they pay you there?

CPRL: I get $50,000 a year to shuffle people back and forth creating traffic jams and bottleneck along the information superhighway.

Me: Sounds like a great gig. Well worth it.


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