Capítulo 28: The Dream Team

Ethan glanced at David, his expression contemplative. "David, do you know any seasoned professionals at other companies?"

David blinked, caught off guard. Before he could respond, Ethan clarified, "I mean senior-level folks—department heads, people who can mentor and guide the team we're building."

David let out a laugh, his usual cheerful demeanor cutting through the weariness of the day. "Of course! After years in this industry, I've crossed paths with plenty of them. I'm not exactly a rookie, you know," he added with a grin.

But his grin faded quickly, giving way to a more serious look. "The thing is, Ethan, attracting them won't be easy. They're well-paid, secure, and content where they are. People at that level don't just up and leave for something new."

"Good," Ethan replied, his eyes bright with determination. "That's exactly what I want. Offer them double their current salary—and the best benefits package we can put together."

David stared at him, momentarily speechless. "Double their salary? And the best benefits package?" He glanced at Jessica, who sat across from them, her eyebrows raised in surprise.

Jessica quickly masked her reaction, but her voice carried a note of incredulity. "Ethan, that's... ambitious. Bold, even."

"Ambitious?" Ethan leaned back in his chair, a playful smile forming. "Jessica, we're building something extraordinary here. Exceptional leaders don't leave their jobs for a slight pay bump. To get the best, we have to offer more than just money."

David's intrigue overtook his surprise. He leaned forward slightly. "More than money? What exactly do you have in mind?"

Ethan's expression grew serious as he leaned in, his tone steady but filled with conviction. "Double their salary is just the beginning," he said.

David raised a hand, half in jest. "I'm starting to get nervous about where this is going."

Jessica chuckled softly, nodding in agreement. She had learned enough about Ethan to know boldness was his hallmark.

Ethan continued, undeterred. "We'll offer them comprehensive health insurance, an excellent retirement plan, generous stock options, flexible working hours, and paid vacations. In short, everything they need to feel secure—truly secure."

David leaned back, rubbing his temples as if trying to make sense of it all. "Double their pay and all that? You're not playing small, are you?"

Jessica folded her arms, her chuckle turning into a thoughtful smile. "Well, it's certainly going to get their attention. Nobody could say no to that without at least a second thought."

Ethan nodded, his tone shifting to something deeper, more personal. "It's more than just getting their attention. This is about giving them a reason to stay—something my parents never had in their careers. They worked hard, but there was always an edge of uncertainty. I don't want anyone here to feel that."

He paused, letting his words settle. "It's about creating an environment where they're not just working for a paycheck but investing in a vision. These senior-level hires will bring the leadership we need to scale NovaTech effectively."

Ethan glanced between David and Jessica, noticing the faint unease in their expressions. He smiled, trying to reassure them. "We'll keep bringing in new talent, but without experienced leaders to guide them, we'll flounder. With the right mentorship in place, managing fifty new hires won't be a challenge—it'll be an opportunity."

David whistled softly, exchanging a look with Jessica as they both tried to wrap their heads around Ethan's bold proposal. "It's a solid plan," he admitted, "but it's a bold one, Ethan. We're talking about seasoned top talent—people who are settled, well-compensated, and not easily swayed."

Taking a measured breath, he added, "Offering double their salaries and that benefits package will definitely grab their attention. Whether it gets them through the door is another question."

Jessica nodded, her expression thoughtful. "I'm not trying to overstep here," she began, her tone cautious, "but doesn't this start to feel… less like a startup? Don't get me wrong—I see what you're aiming for—but I just wonder if it might send the wrong message."

Ethan leaned back, his confidence unwavering. "I get it, Jessica. But this isn't just hiring—it's investing. With the right leaders, NovaTech won't just succeed; it'll thrive. Bold moves bring bold results."

Jessica smiled faintly, her reservations softened by Ethan's conviction. "It might just work," she conceded. Turning to David, she added, "And those senior leaders could be the key. They'll guide the new hires, smooth out onboarding, and set the tone for the entire company. It's not just about now—it's the long game."

David sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Alright, you've convinced me. I know a few people who might bite, given the right offer. Double their salaries, though? Never thought I'd be making that kind of pitch," he said with a laugh.

Ethan grinned. "I'll leave the recruiting to you, David. But I'll need your help keeping track of the budget. Just because money isn't an issue doesn't mean I'm looking to waste it."

David and Jessica broke into laughter. "Now there's the voice of reason!" David said, still chuckling. "I was starting to think you'd gone completely off the deep end."

Ethan flushed slightly, rubbing the back of his neck. "Hey, I may dream big, but I'm not reckless."

"Not reckless, you say?" David quipped, raising an eyebrow.

The laughter died down, and Jessica, regaining her composure, leaned forward with a practical air. "Now, about the fifty candidates we've shortlisted," she said, tapping the resumes stacked neatly on the table. "I suggest we offer permanent contracts to the top twenty."

Ethan raised an eyebrow. "And the remaining thirty?"

Jessica tilted her head, her tone pragmatic. "We can start them on probationary contracts—six months at 70% of their full salaries and benefits. If they perform well, we can offer them full contracts. That way, we're not locking ourselves into commitments with anyone who might not fit."

Ethan's eyes brightened. "That's a fantastic idea. It gives them something to work toward while ensuring we commit only to those who prove themselves. Let's do it."

Jessica smiled, relieved that her suggestion had landed well.

David leaned back, still looking a little dazed by the scope of Ethan's ambitions. "You're definitely pulling out all the stops here, Ethan. But you're right—if we're going to build something extraordinary, we need extraordinary people."

Ethan's gaze fell to the resumes in front of him, his mind already racing with plans. "What about the departments, David? You know this better than I do. What kind of structure do we need to make sure everything runs smoothly?"

David straightened, his tone growing more serious. "We'll need department heads for finance, marketing, operations, HR, IT, development, and customer support—all the essentials to keep the machine running."

Then, with a small smile, he added, "And don't worry—I already thought of that. We included candidates for all those roles in today's interviews."

Ethan raised his eyebrows, impressed. "You already covered that? Without me even asking?"

David nodded, his confidence shining through. "Of course. I've been in this game long enough to know what's needed to keep things running. We've got some great candidates lined up for every major role—and a few standouts I think would fit perfectly."

He hesitated for a moment, then grinned. "Honestly, I was planning to tell you once we'd finalized the hires. Didn't want to get ahead of myself."

Ethan laughed, clearly pleased. "That's incredible, David. I didn't expect you to be two steps ahead of me."

David chuckled. "Don't worry, Ethan—I've got your back on the details. We're building this together."

Ethan smiled, but David's expression grew thoughtful. He leaned forward slightly, lowering his voice as though about to share a secret. "Ethan, there's something we need to discuss."

"What's on your mind?" Ethan asked.

David replied, "You're going to need a personal assistant."

"A personal assistant?" Ethan repeated, his brow furrowing in confusion.

"Yes," David said, his tone firm and practical. "Someone to help you manage your schedule, coordinate meetings, and keep everything running smoothly behind the scenes. Especially when you're juggling university and running a company."

Ethan frowned, leaning back in his chair. He hadn't thought of that. His mind had been consumed with building NovaTech, hiring people, and completing system missions.

The logistics of day-to-day operations hadn't even crossed his radar. But David was right. Things were escalating, and soon they'd become overwhelming.

"You're going to be incredibly busy," David continued, ticking off the points with a finger. "Running a company, handling investors, overseeing app development, and balancing your university work. You'll need someone to help keep it all from collapsing."

Ethan exhaled, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "You've got a point. I hadn't considered how much would pile up once things really start moving."

Jessica chimed in, her voice thoughtful. "What kind of person are you looking for? Maybe I can recommend someone capable."

Ethan hesitated, his thoughts swirling. His studies and his responsibilities at NovaTech were all converging. For a fleeting moment, he even wondered whether he should withdraw from university altogether. But no, that felt like giving up too soon.

After a pause, he replied, "I need someone I can trust. Someone who can handle the pressure, understand what we're trying to build, and not get overwhelmed."

David chuckled softly, leaning back. "I can't volunteer myself. Running the company is going to eat up all my time."

Ethan grinned, appreciating the humor, but he understood David's point. This role would require someone uniquely qualified—intelligent, adaptable, and, above all, trustworthy.

Then, as if struck by inspiration, David leaned forward, a mischievous gleam in his eyes. "What about Jessica?"

For a moment, both Ethan and Jessica froze, processing the unexpected suggestion.

"Me?" Jessica's voice was filled with surprise as she blinked at David. "What do you mean?"

David's grin widened. "Why not? You've already proven yourself. You've helped with the interviews, handled the property deals like a seasoned professional, and kept everything running smoothly. You're sharp and efficient, and you've got the right temperament. Honestly, you're exactly the kind of person Ethan needs."

Jessica turned to Ethan, her expression a mix of curiosity and uncertainty. "I—well, I don't know what to say. I'm honored, but are you sure?"

Ethan studied her for a moment. Over the past few days, Jessica has shown a remarkable ability to navigate the chaos of a startup's early stages.

She was calm under pressure, meticulous in her work, and, most importantly, dependable. Her presence had been a steadying force in an otherwise hectic environment.

After a moment, Ethan smiled warmly. "Jessica, would you consider it? I'd like you to become my personal assistant on a full-time basis. I'll make sure you're properly compensated if you choose to leave your current role."

Jessica stared at him wide-eyed. This was the last thing she had expected. "I—yes, I'd be interested. But are you absolutely certain?"

Ethan nodded, his tone resolute. "Completely. You've proven yourself more than capable. And most importantly, I trust you."

Jessica's expression softened, a mix of pride and disbelief. "Then... I'd be honored."

David clapped his hands, breaking the moment with his usual cheer. "Well, that's settled! Ethan, it looks like you've found your personal assistant."

Ethan's smile broadened, a wave of relief washing over him. With Jessica stepping into this new role and David managing the broader operations, the pieces were finally falling into place.

They were ready to start building something truly remarkable.

Edited: 12 December 2024

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