We live in a world where almost everything is open for negotiation, but some deals are final. I learned this first hand after a business convention two weeks ago. My job was nothing special; processing documents and records for an international sales company. Then I was offered a promotion during the conference. Not only would it nearly double my salary, but would be my first management position. However, the job would require frequent travel. Nevertheless, I was very excited and after considering the proposal for a short while, I accepted. The company’s confidentiality agreement was ironclad and I was made to renew the contract. After that, the job was practically mine.
First, I had to pass a test. I had to make my first deal. The goal; get a potential client to consider buying an empty container. However, the client wouldn’t be aware of his vacant purchase until the point of sale. The task seemed odd, but my employer explained that my success would prove my ability to sell just about anything. He also indicated that exaggeration and mild deception would become among my many tools I’d use in order to thrive in the industry. In essence, I would lie through my teeth in order to get someone to go against their better judgment. Sure, people did it all the time in the name of business and success, but not me. I’m not the most honest of people, but I’ve never gone out of my way to deceive others. So, of course I felt strange about the prospect of knowingly selling a person an empty container through false advertising. It was a concern I voiced immediately. My boss told me not to worry and that after the deal had been made, he’d make all the arrangements to give the customer what they paid for upon viewing the ‘sample’, back at headquarters.
Somewhat relieved that no one would be cheated, I sought my potential customer, a middle-aged man enjoying a drink at the bar. I figured the influence of alcohol would make my job a little easier. After a brief introduction and some small talk I began my pitch. Following the cues from my supervisor, I verbally described the ‘exclusive’ product. I threw in terms such as ‘patents pending’ and ‘breakthrough technology’ to make the so-called product sound more credible. After nearly a lengthy discussion, the man agreed to view the goods later that week.
“That’s some pitch, man,” he laughed heartily, “I must be out of my damn mind. You show up here with no portfolio, no documentation, no photos, and yet I can’t wait to see whatever is you’re talkin’ about. This just better not be a waste of time. If so, you may be in for more than you bargained for.”
Judging by the serious expression on the man’s face I knew it was no idle threat. I reassured him that his time would not be wasted. Yet, in the back of my mind I prayed I hadn’t gotten myself into something deeper than I could handle.
The following Friday was the big day. My boss and I were waiting in the warehouse for our newest client. Sitting on the floor was a wooden shipping crate the size of a big screen TV. As the minutes ticked on, I grew increasingly nervous when he didn’t show. The minutes accumulated into nearly an hour and I began to wonder if he’d been pulling my chain. Just then, he swaggered in, apologizing for his tardiness. When he moved to open the box my boss seized his hand and said:
“Not so fast. You shouldn’t touch merchandise you haven’t paid for.”
“Can I at least see what I’m getting, here?” the client regarded him with a bemused expression.
I wondered if my boss was stalling for time to hide the fact that the box was empty. Had he still not filled it with the merchandise as he so promised?
Nevertheless, he took the reins to seal the deal.
“Oh, you will,” my boss smiled wryly, “but first, answer me this; how badly do you want success for your business? How much would you risk to achieve wealth beyond your wildest imagination?”
“You’re kidding me, right?” the client chuckled, “You’re saying your product can do all that?”
My boss nodded simply. “But you didn’t answer the question.”
“Because it’s silly. If there’s a guaranteed payback for a gamble, of course I’d risk it all. It’s a no-brainer.”
“I’m so glad you feel that way,” My boss laughed heartily. Suddenly, he flipped open the box and the client immediately began choking. In a matter of seconds, a blue-grey smoke poured out of him and swirled through the air in an aquatic fashion. I stood with my mouth agape as it streamed into the box. My boss promptly sealed it thereafter. After a few moments of chilling silence, the client asked the question that was stuck in my head.
“What…happened?” he panted.
“You just made your payment in full.” my boss answered nonchalantly, “Enjoy your newfound success. You really put your soul into it. It’s been a pleasure doing business with you, sir.”
Realizing what had just happened, the man pleaded for the return of his soul.
“All sales are final,” was my boss’ callous response.
The guilt of contributing to the damnation of a man weighed so heavily on my mind, it was sickening. Soon after the client left, I voiced my desire to leave the company. My request was met with condescending amusement.
“This is not what I signed up for. You said I was selling him an empty container!” I exclaimed.
“And you did. Don’t you realize a human being without a soul is but an empty container? I really must thank you for your efforts. They have garnered me not one healthy soul, but two.”
“Two?”
“Yes,” his smile broadened, “remember the agreement you signed?”
So, there you have it. I unwittingly sold my soul for my job by not remaining true to my convictions. If any of you find yourself in a similar position of betraying your values for the sake of a few extra dollars, be sure to figure out the cost in advance. Because, as I said earlier, some deals are final. Some people may say they have a boss from hell. As it turns out, mine actually is and there’s no way for me to resign or retire.
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Shykia Bell 