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Chapter 131

Chapter 131

I rolled up to the interview site at around eleven, replaceing the company in a suburban area, not quite the bustling city center, but a mere twenty–minute ride from my place. It wasn’t a name I was unfamiliar with. They were into lighting development and had thrown their hat into the ring for a theme park lighting gig but didn’t land it. I even considered hitting them up for a troubleshooting job when the park’s lights went haywire.

Those encounters put this company on my radar, and as luck would have it, they were hiring for a marketing and promotions role that seemed tailor–made for me. They were the first one I applied to, sure enough, the first to offer me a spot.

Their office was in a leased building, nowhere near the grandeur of the Wagner Group’s towering headquarters. Yet, they weren’t small–time, occupying three floors of office space. I found my way to the HR office without much trouble and was greeted immediately with a warm smile, “You must be Ms. Hudson here for the interview?”

I smiled back. “That’s me!”

“Please, have a seat!” In his early thirties, the man had that everyman look, not striking but not unpleasant, his demeanor friendly and inviting. His kindness left a lasting impression.

“You’re our only appointment today,” he said, explaining why he knew me immediately.

“Nice to meet you,” I extended my hand, which he shook, introducing himself as Grant Smith I had noticed his ID badge as the HR Manager and Vice President.

“I’ve reviewed your resume. It’s quite impressive and fits what we’re looking for. I’d like to hear about your expectations, Ms. Hudson,” Grant said, all professionalism.

From our handshake, I could tell he was genuinely interested, though having him there to meet me seemed a bit much. Figuring they needed someone with my skill set urgently, I didn’t overthink it, laying out my terms, including salary, vacation time, and the company’s growth plan. I was ready to negotiate the latter based on the first two.

Grant got me a cup of coffee. “We’re familiar with your work at the Wagner Group. While we can’t match their salary, we offer performance bonuses.”

Not surprised, I nodded. Grant offered a monthly salary a quarter less than what I earned at the Wagner Group, but I accepted. After all, I couldn’t expect the same perks outside the Wagner umbrella, especially when my role in the Wagner Group was more than just a job

title.

“If you have any other requests, feel free to mention them,” Grant added.

“I’d like to see the company’s growth plan,” I said, keen on understanding the company’s prospects. I didn’t want to invest my energy into a sinking ship.

Grant retrieved a dossier from his desk and handed it over. After a thorough read, I was ready. “If you have no objections, Mr. Smith, I’m ready to start whenever.”

His smile brightened. “How about we start with the paperwork today and let you officially join us next Monday?”

I agreed. “Sounds good!”