The Ultimatum

“I was working on an AT&T Unix machine that was long overdue for replacement, dealing with multiple issues, when the client came in and asked how long it would take to fix. I explained the various problems and estimated it would take a few hours with new parts needed. The client then gave me an ultimatum, saying I had half an hour to fix it, or I’d be fired and they’d find someone else.”

“In response, I stood up, grabbed my tools, and began walking towards the door. The client asked where I was going, and I calmly stated that I had given my honest estimate of the time required, which was longer than half an hour, so I assumed I was fired. However, my “firing” didn’t last more than a few steps before the situation was resolved.”