A Meaningful Auto Ride

 

A Meaningful Auto Ride

A young manager was waiting for a cab to the airport when he received a cancellation message, causing him to feel tense. He decided to walk down the lane to hire an auto rickshaw, and fortunately, he was able to get one. The auto rickshaw driver inquired about the drop-off location and quoted a fare that left the young manager disappointed as he climbed into the vehicle.

While traveling, the young manager commented, "Your charges are high."

The auto rickshaw driver smiled and replied, "I know that, but let me ask you some questions. Was your trip well planned or was it a last-minute plan?"

The young manager replied, "It was planned at the last minute."

The auto rickshaw driver continued, "Is there a difference between a last-minute booking and an early booking?"

The young manager said, "Yes, there is a difference; in fact, the fare is higher."

The driver then asked, "Have you ever booked a cab during peak hours? Is there a difference in the fare?"

The young manager acknowledged, "Yes, there's surge pricing."

The auto rickshaw driver then inquired, "Have you ever booked a table in advance and received a discount at a barbecue restaurant?"

Losing his patience, the young manager snapped, "Yes."

The auto rickshaw driver remarked, "You expressed disappointment when I charged you a few hundred more, but you don't question the airlines or the cab that took you for a ride. Why question my rate?"

 

By the time their conversation ended, they had reached the airport. The young manager paid in cash and then asked the auto rickshaw driver, "What is your qualification?"

With a smile, the auto rickshaw driver replied, "I am a graduate and have gained wisdom in life skills."

Surprised, the young manager asked, "So, you hold a degree?"

The driver confirmed, "Yes."

Curious, the young manager asked, "Why did you choose to be an auto rickshaw driver?"

The driver responded sarcastically, "Layoff."

The young manager looked at his watch and questioned, "You mean you were working elsewhere?"

The driver explained, "I worked for a corporate that was taken over by another large corporation for peanuts. The company that took over was a favorite of the ruling government. Since we questioned the new management's approach, we were branded as rebels and were ultimately sent home."

Feeling empathetic, the young manager said, "I'm sorry to hear that," and asked, "Can I have your mobile number? I’d like to use your services in the future." They exchanged numbers.

As the young manager entered the airport and checked the departure board, he saw that his flight was delayed by an hour. After completing his airport procedures, he swiped his card to enter the lounge for a modest breakfast. Just then, he received a call from the auto rickshaw driver.

"Sir, I hope you reached on time?" the driver asked.

The manager replied, "The flight is delayed."

"Now, use your negotiation skills with the airline to get your few hundred rupees back," the auto rickshaw driver said.

 

Smiling, the manager responded, "I don't have a choice."

The driver then asked, "Other than your existing competencies, do you have any other skills?"

Confused, the young manager asked, "Why are you asking this question?"

The driver replied, "One day, your company may also be taken over by a favorite of the ruling government, so be ready to face the consequences."

The young manager said, "Let me explore my other competencies," while picking up some pakoras from the buffet.

"Have a nice day, sir," the auto rickshaw driver concluded.

M.L. Narendra Kumar