Anonymous
McGraff who owned the small sports equipment manufacturing firm invited him for an early morning run. Hadn't he said,
"I like to talk with my executives outside the office, you really get to know someone while you're running"?
I'm 35 and in good shape. Dean thought. I jog two or three miles after body building workouts. And he has to be over 60. No sweat.
They met in the park, and Dean suppressed a smile as McGraff stripped off his warm-up suit. The old man looks like a stick, he thought. "Let's take the outer road," McGraff said. "It's about four miles around."
Well, a little longer than I planned, thought Dean, but no problem. "Sure, why not?"
They started out leisurely and talked marketing, and Dean was enjoying it. Until they reached The Hill I'm supposed to run up that? he thought. He did, reduced to nods and grunts as McGraff chatted away. On the down-slope, he recovered enough to pant "Very pretty" as they passed a family of deer grazing in an open field.
Finally, Dean gave up all conversation and concentrated on the run. He broke into a broad smile when their starting point came in view. McGraff didn't slow down. "First four miles. Dean," he shouted. "Three more circuits to go!"
Three more times around? That's another 12 miles!
Halfway through the second lap, McGraff said, "Here, Dean, you'll do better if I pace you. Stay directly behind and match me stride for stride. It's easier that way."
It was humiliating, following behind those spindly 60-year-oId legs, pumping away like they could run forever. But it was easier. Maybe he even could make 16 miles.
And then The Hill again. He struggled up, seeing spots and gasping for air, but eked over the top and down the other side. At the parking lot, McGraff said, "Why don't you rest a bit? If you don't mind, I would like to take the last two laps a little faster."
No argument here, Dean thought, and sprawled on a bench as McGraff lengthened his stride and disappeared. By the time he came around on the final circuit, Dean was sitting up and believing that maybe he'd be able to walk again...someday.
"Don't look so depressed, Dean. You did 8 miles. That's great for a man with your build."
"I feel like a weakling."
"Why? Because you're not a world-class runner? That's not why I want to hire you. Walk with me while I cool out, and we'll talk salary. And when you're my marketing vice president. Dean, don't ever underestimate the competition."
Dean got an office across from McGraff's, and when both doors were open, he could see the glass case filled with trophies, medals and ribbons the old man had been winning for half a century.
Whether the interview is in the office or outside, you will find yourself in a situation in which the interviewer is very comfortable. You will be assessed either on your comfort level in that environment or your ability to adapt to it.
