Why do students assume that you can instantly assist them with any problems when they have left you no information?
Today Pat found a message on her voice mail from a student claiming that the department was preventing them from registering for their particular classes. Could Pat fix the problem and call the student back?
Well student, Pat could easily look up the problem if you had left your student identification number. Even if you had mentioned in passing what your name was that would have been helpful. Instead, you ask Pat to assist you and then do not tell Pat who you are or provide Pat with the necessary information to view you records. Dear simple minded student....that is not helpful.
The only thing that Pat can do is call you back and get your voice mail (of course) and leave you a message telling you that Pat needs to know who you are and then Pat can gladly look up your information and get an answer for you. You have made this process far more difficult than it needs to be.
Now, I know that the message on the voice mail box did not specify this....but Pat has no psychic ability. Pat cannot sense that your name is George Smithson. Pat cannot close Pat's eyes and concentrate and feel that your have a hold on your records. I'm sorry students- Pat cannot do this. If these abilities were required then perhaps the department should have been a bit more specific with Pat's job description.
So.....in conclusion.....unless the message on the voice mail says: "You've reached Pat! I already know who you are and what you want, so just go ahead and hang up because your magical answer is....(fill in the blank)" You are going to need to be more specific.
While phyllis was gone a student called, left a message, but did not leave any important information in the message. No last name, no phone number, no student id, it was a complete waste of a phone call. Hilarious that they think we can read their minds!
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