Years ago, I was at a networking meeting where I was an active member of the group hosting the meeting. I did not have enough time to meet all the guests - but as I was leaving, an individual in the group mentioned one of the guests, "Ryan" and I, should make it a point to speak further.
Not long after the meeting Ryan called to follow-up on the suggestion. We had a short conversation, during which, I began to suggest some times and dates, as I believed that to be the entire point of the call. I was immediately shot down with a, "I'm in the car" (as if I should have been aware of the situation) - "you'll have to call my assistant and work out the details with her." Not thrilled with Ryan's tone, I remembered the person who made the introduction, and the fact that this was LA, and decided to overlook the phone call - and eventually scheduled a time to meet for coffee.
This coffee meeting began innocently: we discussed a bit about our businesses and backgrounds. And, as some networking progresses, I understand that people shift to more social topics. So, I wasn't caught completely off-guard when I was asked about what kind of things I do in my spare time. I explained a bit about my penchant for hockey and for theater - and politely inquired as to Ryan's time spent away from work/what he did for fun. Without skipping a beat - and almost as if he were waiting for the opportunity, he replied, "Sex."
Fortunately, having worked in the Detroit prison system for several years, I've learned to control my reactions - especially when it seems someone is looking to provoke some specific kind. So, I nodded politely, as if his answer was something I'd heard a million times before. (The baited look on his face told me he had expected something completely different - but I declined to pursue it any further.)
And, it was probably at this point I should have ended the meeting - and all communication. However, I once again referred to the respect I had for the person who made the introduction, and unfortunately, stayed in touch. And, you'll find a number of other stories about Ryan as I continue with this blog...