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I've got to take a couple of potential clients out to discuss a possible job over lunch today. I usually love doing this sort because I get a nice dinner on the company but this time I think that the clients are an ex and his wife.

Last time we bumped into each other, it was very awkward so I'm not really looking forward to this

Just be polite, friendly and professional, and let the ex take the lead in the conversation.

Does your ex's wife know he is your ex? If not, just play it cool and she'll be none the wiser. Unless he has told her. Regardless, just stay professional.

Great opportunity for 'cold reading' effects if he doesn't own up to being your ex.

I get the sense that you have a tattoo on your left cheek. A Tazmanian Devil? No... Marvin the Martian! You don't snore... but you always mutter 'mummy' just before you wake up.

Yup, she does know who I am. That's the worst part of it really, if it was just him then it wouldn't be so bad, but she thinks that I'm the wicked witch of the west.

As said, I'll just have to be professional, polite and get through it.

but she thinks that I'm the wicked witch of the west

I was just about to enquire as to whether there is a bit of a jealous streak in her. It may be that in her mind, she's there to keep an eye on you both and it sounds a little like insecurity on her part.

If you don't sense that you're going to get the gig then there'a a great opportunity for a wind-up

be aware that in buseness this situation is looked upon as a conflict of interest, and would usualy never happen.

you could declare it as such, thus making it possible for you to take a step back.
taking a 4th person along may also help diffuse the situation.

i think dale has a point.

conflict of interest ... new wife's perception would materially damage the potential relationship with the company ... ex wouldn't be able to commit to anything as his actions would be perceived as nepotism or worse corruption (or even something worse by his wife) ... wife would effectively block any new business anyway ...


... but there must be a funny side ...

Let us know how you get on Lommy, and good luck!

well I survived and did quite well I think. He was ok, a little awkward to start with but by the end of it all things were fine (probabaly as much to do with me as with him). She on the other hand had a very poisonous tongue, didn't like any of my ideas and seemed to think that she could do better.

It all went well overall, I put forward some good ideas, he seemed quite keen and did say that he'd like to have someone that he trusted working on his project which I thought was nice. We'll just have to see if he manages to get the Ice Queen to agree to it.

Well done Lommy, dont worry about ole sour face, she's probably jealous of you any way!

Jealous Taffy? Why? Did you see L of M's photo in the April Fool topic?

L of M must be 120 and the wrinkles.......

lets hope she doesnt read here either!

TargetZero, you are so heading the right way for a slap!

Lady of Mystery wrote:TargetZero, you are so heading the right way for a slap!

Form an orderly queue now people!