training in the city

probably the highlight of my job thus far. central (headquarters of my company) organized a 4 day long training in manhattan for all the associates sharing my position in all of our branches. everyone was flown in and put up in the doubletree in midtown. unfortunately or fortunately for me, this coincided with my move and i have been so damn eager to start staying in my new place that i opted out of the free hotel stay (no warm cookies, soft bed, and free cleaning for me!).

it was a busy four days- we strategized, visited show rooms, and met with one vendor after another. who knew there was so much to learn about luxury products- the difference between baccarat and waterford crystal or berneadeaux and gien or kitchenaid and cuisinart. for the most part they are all fine products and a lot of the difference is stylistic or perception.

highlights-

1. forming some solid connections/friendships

2. freebie's!!! a waterford hostess set, caphalon cooking utensil set, martini shaker, and tapas pans, all clad saucier, towels, a faberge clock, etc.

while this seems extravagant, it makes a great deal of sense from the vendor's perspective. i can pitch a product that i've owned and used a lot better than one i only see on display!

3. night culinary activities at both ICE and the French Culinary Institute- cooking demos and scrumptious dinners that would please any fellow foodie! i had the exceptional opportunity to speak with a former top chef finalist that i'm a huge fan of. she was extremely gracious and i even got a photo and signature! not to mention she's an excellent chef!

now i'm back to the grind, but it doesn't feel like a grind. i feel invigorated, see so many challenges and areas for business development, and more confident in my role. so i guess training was an unexpected success!