Sympathise with his tonsils. Recommend any simple remedy of which you
have heard, or point out the advantages of several spots on the Sussex
coast. Ask him where his favourite holiday resort is; whether he goes
there alone or if he is married, and if so how many children he has. Ask
if they are all well at home.
Remember politeness costs nothing.
This method of leading up to business is much better than the old one,
in which you stand and are bullied by a man who has no sort of right
over you except that he has employment to offer and you want it badly.
Therefore converse with him as if he were an equal, though possibly he
may be your inferior.
He may not answer your kind enquiries, but look you up and down from the
welt of your boot to your scarf-pin. All employers have learnt this
method of scrutiny. They have learnt it from their wives.
Should he examine you in this manner, smile agreeably and walk a few
yards to display your profile. Then change the angle and afford him a
back view. Say easily, "This collar fits neatly, does it not?" or
something like that.
Turning, you can show yourself pleased with his own style of dress.
"Excuse my mentioning it," you remark, "but your taste in neck-gear is
exquisite. I have similar ties myself."
This will flatter him, and those men are very susceptible to flattery.
Also he will be led to speculate favourably upon the stylishness and
extent of your wardrobe.
After this interval of mutual admiration you draw a chair to the centre
of the room and say, "I believe you have a vacancy in the office? What
is it you want me to be? I presume you think of still managing the
business yourself? I will gladly listen to your terms and we will
discuss my prospects."
It is now his move. Lean back in your chair and light a cigarette,
regarding him with a reassuring smile.
You will find that he will have listened to you attentively, looking
hard at your face. As you finish he will push his chair back, rise and
strut across the room.
Now is your chance to decide your fate one way or the other.
When he has gone a few steps produce your watch and exclaim in a mildly
vexed tone, "How annoying! I had almost forgotten. I have another
appointment at eleven. In the short time remaining at our disposal it is
impossible to deal adequately with any offer you may make. May I propose
an adjournment?"
The suggestion of independence thus delicately conveyed will usually
have the desired effect and result in an immediate engagement.
Should the employer fail to be impressed he simply pushes the bell and
you are shown off the premises with great promptitude.
* * * * *
"WANTED, strong Willing Girl, age 18, to wait on trained nurses and
assist third housemaid upstairs."
_Advt. in "Morning Post."_
We should give the third housemaid one more chance and then, if she
still can't get upstairs without assistance, dismiss her.
* * * * *