As the bank’s leader, Jonathan, like it or not, oversaw human resources because he was an excellent judge of character. Not that Emily agreed. Most of the time, Jon tended to jump to conclusions instead of asking questions. But over several years, with coaching and guidance from Emily, he was so much better at it – especially today. Jonathan read her resume. After reading about her talents in organizing various organizations, such as her sorority, student government, and the human resources department of a competing bank. Jonathan’s surprise showed through during one of her interviews, which he personally sat in on. Her answer to the question, “Why come to work for us instead of our competitor? You obviously have experience with them. It’s a wonder they didn’t hire you immediately.”

“Yes, that’s true,” Sally started her answer. “But they couldn’t offer me an executive management position in less than three years, something that you can, based on your ROI for last quarter. If financial markets are to be believed, and I have no reason to doubt them, you will be poised to open fifteen new branches in three new markets over the next five years. That’s unheard of in the banking industry, especially not from a small, local California bank.”  

Sally saw Jonathan’s shocked expression and immediately thought she’d done something wrong. Thankfully, her insecurities didn’t get in the way of the interview, and she managed her anxiety reasonably well. “If offered the job here, I see more potential for professional growth.” Plus, it never hurts to interview the interviewee. “What development opportunities will you provide a green employee with experience in the banking industry?” If Sally had her way, she would’ve told Jonathan what she was thinking: an entry-level position for the first 30 days, then executive-level training for the next six months to a year.

“Mr. Von Otto, I’ll let you answer this question,” his human resources director replied. If there was one thing Krinia knew, it was to let the boss answer the hard questions. Not that this one was hard – not for your standard entry-level position, which Mr. Von Otto would not waste his time with. No, Krinia knew that her employer was intently looking at this potential candidate for other reasons. And questioning Mr. Von Otto was one way to end a lucrative career. It wasn’t something Krinia was willing to risk.

“You will start with a 60-day temporary trial period, during which you will make, what, Krinia?” He looked to her because she knew the budget better than he did, even though he oversaw every dime spent by the bank.

“$64,382 and fifteen cents,” she quickly answered. Krinia knew this young woman would make much more than that in bonuses in the next 60 days if she was worth the money.

“Okay, yeah. That will be your salary for the next 60 days. Suppose you are worth the money. I fully expect your bonuses will exceed your salary. If that’s true, you will receive an executive-level salary of six figures a year, the specifics of which we will discuss two months from now. Do we have an agreement?” Jonathan stood up, holding out his right hand. Sally stood slowly, smoothed out her long black dress, and replied, “On one condition. During the next 60 days, I will shadow you and organize every aspect of your schedule, including dates with your wife, Emily, and your son, Joshua. You will increase my salary to a flat $74,000, and I start immediately.” She grabbed his hand and squeezed. “So, we have a deal then?”

Jonathan smiled. “She’s good, Krinia. Very good!” He laughed. Krinia never saw him laugh during an interview.

“Mr. Von Otto, we do not have it in the budget . . .” Krinia started to protest.

“Nonsense! Like Sally said, we’re doing extremely well, and next quarter’s earnings are starting to rise, so we’ll have more than enough to cover her salary for two months.”

Sally didn’t ask Jonathan’s permission. She simply snatched his phone from him. “Thank you, Mr. Von Otto,” Sally said after clicking through his calendar and sending herself access to his mobile phone. She handed the phone back to Jonathan. “Anything you add to your calendar will be updated to mine immediately. That includes birthdays, anniversaries, important red-flagged meetings, etc. Make sure you put everything in there. Do not embarrass me or make me out to be a fool, yes?”

Jonathan smiled, nodding affirmatively.

“Good. Now then. You have,” Sally glanced at her phone, “four appointments remaining today and very little time to get to the next one.” She paused, scrolling through the notes on her phone. “Your car is downstairs, waiting for you. I will see you here at 3 P.M. with notes for your next call. Do not be late. Your car will be ready and waiting when you are done.” Then she looked at Krinia. “And Krinia? I need you to get me the files for . . .” and she was off, running down the walkway with Krinia. Jonathan walked to the elevators.