…and the magic word is: “Decorators.”

”

So, why have you come to Canada?” the immigration officer at the Toronto airport asked.

“I’m here on business,” I replied.

“What kind of business?”

“I’m here to present a seminar.”

“Can I see your work permit?”

“My what?”

“Your work permit.”

“I, uh…don’t understand.”

“What’s there not to understand? You’re here on business from the U.S., so you need a work permit.”

“I really didn’t know that.”

“Well, now you do.”

“How, uh, do I get a…work permit?”

“Well, you can buy one at that window over there.”

“What’s it cost?”

“$150.”

“$150! Are you kidding me?”

“Never been more serious in my life.  Sorry about that.”

“So am I.”

“Why did you say you’ve come to Toronto?”

“To present a program.”

“So who are you ‘presenting a program’ to?”

“CDECA. The Canadian Decorators Assn.”

“Did you say: ‘decorators?”

“Yeah.”

“Well, I guess you’re in luck.”

“Luck? ”

“I’m going to let you through this time with just a warning.”

“Gee, thanks! But…why?”

“I happen to be married to an interior decorator.”

Fred Berns is a sales and marketing trainer, coach and copywriter for interior design professionals worldwide.