Listening to a podcast some time ago, an expert described LinkedIn as something akin to the office water cooler, a place where busy execs gather for brief informal chats, sound each other out about new opportunities, and generally network. To follow that analogy just a bit further then, picture me as an out-of-place old guy that no one knows, dressed in scruffy Kathmandu and pushing his way into the circle of chatters.
“Well Hi,” the old man says, interrupting the conversation, “I’m Carey, and I’ve got just the thing you want.”
Your water cooler colleagues are skeptical, you are skeptical. You look at your phone, you smile awkwardly, wondering how you can slip away.
The old man, sensing your doubt, quickly adds, “Look, I know you are busy, time-poor, with all the responsibilities of juggling family and work. I also know what a hassle it is getting a decent present for your parents or grandparents. Something you know they really need but won’t buy for themselves.”
You pause, your finger hovers above the left-click button. It’s true, it’s a dilemma getting a meaningful gift for dear old Nana.
The old man then magically produces a beautiful walking stick with a shiny tactile handle and a dark stained shaft. He hands it over for your admiration.
“See how strong it is,” the old man says, and it is.
“See how comfortable it is,” the old man says, and it is.
“See how elegant it is,” the old man says, and it is.
“Where is it made?” You ask, curious now.
In Waipu,” the old man says, “By me. Each one made to measure, each one personalized and unique.”
“But Nana doesn’t really want a walking stick,” you say, “And if she did, she wouldn’t use it.”
“If it is a gift from you, she might,” the old man counters, “You could have it engraved, you could have it coloured to match her favorite hue. She will use it if it reminds her of you. And it may just save her from a fall.”
“Buy a walking stick Gift Card,” the old man suggests, “Get it from the website, I’ll sort out the details with your Nana and send it to her directly, with a message from you.”
“Hmmmm,” you say. “Not a bad idea.”
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