The Interview

Lucia thanked her and walked over to the waiting area.

The receptionist had a scornful look on her face as she watched Lucia walk away. She sneered, "Do you think your pretty face will get you the job? You're just wasting your time here. This company only hires the cream of the crop, and, frankly, I don't think you'll make the cut." She was clearly a hater, unable to handle anyone more attractive than herself.

The receptionst reached for her mirror to check her appearance one last time, making sure her makeup was flawless. She frowned as she noticed a tiny smudge on her lipstick. She quickly wiped it off with her finger, then licked it to taste the expensive brand. She smiled smugly, thinking that she was the most beautiful woman in the world.

Finally taking a seat on one of the comfy sofas, she surveyed her surroundings. The lobby was spacious and bright, with large windows. The walls were decorated with the company's logo, and various awards and certificates that showcased their achievements and reputation. 

Lucia noticed other people in the lobby, each with their unique attire. Some were dressed in formal suits and ties, while others went for a more casual clothing. She couldn't help but wonder if they were all here for the same job position as she was.

Lucia took a deep breath and tried to calm herself. She reviewed the notes she had made on her phone, going over the main points she wanted to convey to the interviewer. She also rehearsed some possible questions and answers in her mind. 

Suddenly, a man in a blue shirt and khaki pants walked into the lobby, holding a clipboard in his hand. He had a stern face and a clipped voice that matched his brisk pace. He scanned the room with an impatient expression, looking for the first name on his list. He introduced himself as Damson, one of the senior managers at MK Group. He called out the name of the person he was looking for, and waited for them to get up and follow him.

Lucia was number 7 on the list, as a constant stream of candidates went in and came out. Some emerged with tears in their eyes. Lucia felt a knot in her stomach she knew her turn was coming soon.

After waiting patiently she heard a name being called "Lucia? Lucia Hawley?" he said 

Lucia followed Damson to the elevator, which whisked them up to the top floor of the building. They walked along a corridor lined with glass windows that offered a stunning view of the city skyline. They reached a door with a sign that read "Mk Group-meeting room". 

Damson opened it and gestured for Lucia to enter. Lucia stepped into a spacious room, where she saw two people sitting on opposite sides of the desk: Jennifer, who smiled politely at her; and George, who looked up from his laptop and nodded curtly at her.

Jennifer was the head of human resources at MK Group, and George was the chief financial officer. They were both part of the interview panel that would evaluate Lucia's suitability for the position.

Lucia walked towards them and introduced herself. She handed them copies of her resume and cover letter.

"Hello, I'm Lucia. It's nice to meet you."

"Hello, Lucia. I'm Jennifer, and this is George. We're glad you're here." Jennifer said warmly.

"Hi." George said briefly.

"Please take a seat." Jennifer said, pointing to an empty chair in front of them.

Lucia sat down nervously, clutching her documents in her hands.

The interview began.

Jennifer started by asking Lucia some general questions about herself: where she was from, what she studied, why she wanted to work for MK Group.

Lucia answered them as best as she could, trying to sound confident and enthusiastic. She told them about her interest in MK Group's vision and values.

Jennifer nodded approvingly as she listened to Lucia's responses. She seemed impressed by Lucia's qualifications.

George looked bored as he glanced at Lucia's resume. He didn't seem interested in what Lucia had to say. He interrupted Jennifer several times with his own questions. "How do you deal with difficult clients or colleagues?"

Lucia tried to answer them as honestly as she could, giving examples of how she had overcome challenges and learned from mistakes.