Sunday, March 25, 2007

Global Village?

I just received a phone call from a nice sounding man named Mr Cheng. He cheerfully asked me if he could speak to me in Chinese, to which I replied "You can, if you like, though I won't understand anything." Fortunately he didn't mind continuing in English.

I was somewhat bemused when he went on to ask me if I'd be interested in getting two free handsets with Fido and a joint mobile account for only $35 Hong Kong Dollars. And so I interrupted him to ask "Why Hong Kong Dollars?" Startled, he caught himself and said "sorry, US Dollars!", before continuing with his presentation (again repeating the same curious currency confusion later on).

Thinking this was a mighty strange offer (US Dollars, when I live in Canada?), I asked him where he was calling from. He didn't hear (or he ignored) the question, choosing instead to inquire further about my current mobile plan, contract, and my satisfaction thereof.

He soon realized that I won't be changing phone plans or carriers in immediate future, and so he bid me good day (so polite!) and hung up. It was then that I saw the number displayed on my phone: 852 213 33030. Now anyone in North America will attest to the fact that there is one digit too many at the end of that number. A little sleuthing in Google revealed that it was actually 852 2133 3030 which is the format and area code for Hong Kong based numbers.

Now why on earth is a telemarketer from Hong Kong offering mobile deals to Canadian residents in Chinese, using HK and US currencies?

Monday, March 12, 2007

Brained!

You Are 45% Left Brained, 55% Right Brained

The left side of your brain controls verbal ability, attention to detail, and reasoning. Left brained people are good at communication and persuading others. If you're left brained, you are likely good at math and logic. Your left brain prefers dogs, reading, and quiet.

The right side of your brain is all about creativity and flexibility. Daring and intuitive, right brained people see the world in their unique way. If you're right brained, you likely have a talent for creative writing and art. Your right brain prefers day dreaming, philosophy, and sports.