Nia was promoted to general manager of a prominent fashion retail business. She was enthusiastic about her new work and instituted severe adjustments that emphasized punctuality, customer service, and uniform requirements. She made it known: “Anybody who fails to follow the new rules — whether it is about uniform, customer greetings, display arrangements, punctuality — will lose their incentive for that month”.

Nia’s rigorous style frustrated the workforce. She extended shifts, reduced breaks, and prohibited sitting during shifts. “We’ll have to show them that we never get tired of serving them.” Always serve them with a smile. Am I clear?” she said. Her severe measures resulted in a significant decline in sales, and she blamed the staff’s “laziness.”During a tense moment, Nia fired a saleswoman named Maya for falling asleep at work.

Then a 68-year-old janitor called Victor spoke up, attempting to reason with her, but Nia dismissed him as well. I don’t care what the justification is! Let this be an example, people. Hey, old man, you’re fired! Now you may join Maya and get lost!” Unexpected twist. Mr. Gordon, the store’s owner, paid Victor a visit the next day and discovered the firing. Shocked, he confessed that Victor was a co-owner who had saved his life years before.

“Do you know you fired the co-owner of this store?” he inquired of Nia. He requested her to apologize to Victor, who was taking over the unit. Victor’s generosity and expertise helped Nia appreciate the importance of treating staff with dignity. Following his advise, Nia had an increase in sales and was eventually appointed to CEO. Victor continued to work as a janitor, which he thoroughly enjoyed.