Tactical Fall Back

Hi Wash

I regret to inform you that I have failed to transcribe the audio files you have sent.

I did my best to understand, and faithfully write the lecture, but the lecturer proved too challenging to comprehend. It might be because I am not a native British English speaker, or I cannot simply put into writing what the lecturer with a Russian (?) accent tried to convey.

Audio quality is another issue - my technical know-how limits my ability to enhance the audio files.

Attached are the partially completed notes I did. I hope the next contractor will be able to use them.

Again, my deepest apologies. Thank you for your patience.

Yours truly,

There is a universe of difference between writing and listening. 

One requires creation, the other, follow without question. Now that I recall, dictation is not really my strength. I used to copy notes from other students during lecture. I have no patience to listen, much more, to understand.

I have long accepted that I cannot do the job. Yet, to walk away without putting up a fight isn't really my idea. I do not know how much effort, or drive did I put in this project but at the very least, it was a collective decision. My work buddy, Allan agrees with my evaluation.

"Continue bidding," My boss said, when he caught me staring at the wall one morning. "If you only knew the price of my failings, employees lost jobs because of my wrong moves."

I looked at him without saying a word. I was too embarrassed to admit my limitations.

  

Much as I would like to think that I did the right thing: to let the client find someone else who is more suitable for the job, and to spare myself from performing below expectations, there is now an unmistakable scar that will haunt me every time I bid for a freelance job. I was given the opportunity and then ditch it because it cannot be done.

But I know too, that this has happened before. That my decision to give up not only lead to the cessation of obligation, I found myself happier with my choice. 

From my one-week stint as a cadet in the COCC program; to the walk out I did during my first call center job; to my decision not to push through with the SEO writing with another client; to the one-week love affair with someone before the Ex. The next chances proved to be the sweet spot.

Following the boss' words of wisdom, I decided not to retreat from bidding. As we negotiate new terms with Wash, somewhere in cyberspace the search continues.

Hoping the next time a client takes notice of my credentials - the professional services I am to perform is something drawn, closer to the heart.