Color co-ordination

Have you ever felt that just when you think that the work you have done could'nt be more perfect or just when you are thinking that what you have accomplished is going to score nothing less than a 100, someone just comes by and gives a small, least important negative comment and you suddenly find your confidence on a tight rope.

Today I had to submit a report with a presentation to the auditors. I was made to know that they will be arriving today to gather the information contained in this report which plays a crucial role in accounting. I really wanted to make out this report without any guidance as I knew that once I attain this - it would definitely be added in my book of achievements in the company records.

I managed to convince my boss to let me handle this report as I was capable of doing it - only dint have the experience. He somehow agreed and we decided that once I finish this report I have to submit it to him and once he evaluates it, will it be forwarded for auditing. I had a set of guidelines which had to be followed during the report-making. I spent two weeks into this trying to get this right and make it flawless as far as I could. I went over it again and again just to make sure that everything was as per their expectations. I dint even want to leave a single gap for them to question. I wanted their every question answered without them asking for it. And I worked towards it. In the end I was suppose to show the flow of finances by using a chart. I did that. I really could'nt be more satisfied with my work. And believe me it felt seemingly perfect.

I handed the completed report to my boss as per our terms. And he just flipped through the pages. Just flipped. Dint read a word. Just flipped. Finally since there was not a word coming out of his mouth I asked him 'So, what do you think?' And he is like 'Hmmmmmmmmm..." which I think went on forever. Finally after 15mins he is like I dont like the colors used in the chart. I lost my cool. What the hell? Its not a painting competition where every colour has to be properly co-ordinated with the other (All this was told not aloud - in my mind).

I went for the presentation and believe me all the time I was yapping about some financial numbers, what actually dominated my thoughts was like 'what if they dont like the chart'? I really think the colors in the chart were a bit too loud. I should have used something more subtle, maybe pastels to make it look more professional.

Imagine, where I had to think what figures I am giving out is accurate or not I ended up thinking about.....colors in the chart.

Thus the moral of the lesson: Use less jazzy colors in the chart for a professional presentation.