Chapter 10: System's First Reward and Project Opportunities
The Friday morning sun seemed to have been meticulously polished, casting a particularly bright light through the vast floor-to-ceiling windows of Hongyu Group's office. The light poured freely into the market department, filling the air with a sense of urgency and excitement. The glow of computer screens flickered, papers rustled, and colleagues either murmured in quiet discussion or buried themselves in their tasks, each racing against the clock to finish their work before the weekend, bringing the bustling week to a close.
Zhang Liang sat at his desk, fully immersed in reviewing his work notes for the week, when suddenly, the familiar and vibrant voice of the system rang out in his mind, like a triumphant fanfare:
"Hey, Zhang Liang! Congratulations, you've successfully completed your rookie task! Despite all the setbacks, you've mastered the business process and remained steadfast amidst the chaos. Truly impressive! I've been keeping an eye on you, and now it's time for a reward! You've earned the advanced market analysis framework—this is your 'sharp scalpel' for dissecting the market and analyzing competitors. One cut, and it's spot-on. You've also unlocked the 'Charm Boost' aura. With this, you'll become a magnet, drawing people's hearts and earning their trust in the workplace. Make good use of it and don't let my efforts go to waste!"
For a moment, Zhang Liang stood in stunned silence, his heart swelling with an overwhelming sense of joy and pride. It felt as though a brilliant firework exploded within him, banishing the lingering shadows from the time when he had been isolated by his colleagues. He eagerly responded in his mind, "Thank you so much! Without your guidance, I might have been overwhelmed by all those challenges. This reward couldn't have come at a better time. I'll make sure to use it to its fullest!"
At that moment, Team Leader Chen Feng strode out of his office, holding a project plan, his eyes both evaluating and hopeful. Scanning the room, his gaze landed on Zhang Liang. "Zhang Liang, you've done well so far, adapting quickly to the business and handling office situations with resilience and flexibility. Now, we have an important project coming up. Although you'll start in a peripheral position, this is a rare hands-on opportunity. Do well, and it could be your chance to stand out," Chen Feng said, his voice steady and full of trust, each word a weighty affirmation that buoyed Zhang Liang's spirit.
Zhang Liang immediately stood up, straightened his posture, and looked directly at his team leader with determination in his eyes. "Rest assured, Leader. I will give it my all, live up to your trust, and use every skill I have to contribute to the success of the project."
Once the leader left, Zhang Liang eagerly began to "study" the advanced market analysis framework that came as part of his reward. The various detailed data categorization methods, keen market trend insights, and competitor analysis templates unfolded before his mind like a vast and intricate business "battle map," igniting his passion and making him eager to dive into the new project and show what he was capable of.
During lunch, the cafeteria buzzed with noise, the clattering of trays and voices blending together. Zhang Liang, holding his tray, was searching for an empty seat when he noticed Li Qiang and a few colleagues gathered together, casting him dark looks and whispering to each other. It was obvious—they were scheming to throw obstacles in the path of his new project, plotting challenges to set him back.
Zhang Liang ignored them and found a quiet corner to sit. After taking a few bites, the system's voice, seemingly knowing everything and tinged with a hint of mockery, rang in his mind again:
"Zhang Liang, don't let those 'clowns' get to you. 'By being selfless, you can achieve what's yours.' Right now, focus all your energy on the project. Let your actions speak for themselves, don't worry about their petty tricks. Use the 'Charm Boost' aura I gave you—connect sincerely with your project team members, help each other out. People are all made of flesh and bone, and they'll see your sincerity. Soon, they'll recognize you and cooperate with you. Don't let anything hold you back—just keep pushing forward!"
Zhang Liang smiled knowingly, nodding quietly. The system's advice resonated with him. He would focus all his energy on the project, using selfless effort and expertise to break through any obstacles and win the respect of his colleagues.
In the afternoon, the project team gathered for its first meeting. The projector hummed as the room dimmed slightly. All eyes were fixed on the preliminary project plan displayed on the big screen, the atmosphere thick with anticipation. Team Leader Chen Feng outlined the project's goals, expected outcomes, and initial steps. After each section, he asked for input.
A few core team members spoke first, offering their thoughts on marketing channels and cost control strategies. Zhang Liang sat on the edge, listening intently, his notebook filled with dense notes. He occasionally glanced up, observing the expressions of others, keen to capture key insights. As the discussion slowed, he took a deep breath, summoning his courage to speak.
"Leader, I have an idea. I've heard everyone talk about the marketing channels, and most of them are focused on traditional online platforms and offline store collaborations. I think we can broaden our perspective. Social media marketing is booming right now, and we could tap into some vertical communities that align with our project's characteristics—such as environmental enthusiasts or quality-of-life-focused groups. Targeted ad placements and word-of-mouth marketing would be cost-effective and might yield excellent results. As for cost control, we could leverage online surveys and phone interviews during the preliminary research phase to reduce on-site visits, saving money while focusing on the essentials."
Zhang Liang's voice, though slightly nervous, was clear and sincere, his gaze steady as he looked at everyone. At first, a few colleagues exchanged uncertain glances and whispered quietly, seemingly doubting the feasibility of his proposal. Just then, Su Yao nodded slightly and smiled. "Zhang Liang's idea is quite fresh. Social media marketing is a big untapped treasure with a lot of potential. It's worth exploring, and his cost control suggestion is pragmatic. I think we should consider it."
With Su Yao's support, the attitude of the other colleagues gradually shifted, and they began discussing the specific implementation details. The room's atmosphere grew more dynamic, and Zhang Liang eagerly participated, sharing insights from the advanced market analysis framework, such as potential target communities and user preferences. As the conversation gained momentum, the project's direction became clearer.
However, Li Qiang sneered and remarked, "Hmph, sounds good in theory, but it's not going to be that easy. Don't mess this up and drag the whole project down."
Zhang Liang's heart tightened, a wave of frustration and resentment washing over him. But he quickly regained his composure and smiled, responding calmly, "You're right, Li Qiang, it won't be easy, but how will we know if we don't try? I'll make sure to follow through and ensure everything goes smoothly. If there's any issue, I'll gladly welcome feedback and improvements from everyone."
After the meeting, Zhang Liang stayed behind, helping to organize the meeting materials. He also discussed the next steps with a few colleagues, sharing his insights and listening to theirs. His "Charm Boost" aura seemed to work its magic, making colleagues feel his enthusiasm and reliability. Those who had previously been skeptical began to change their attitudes and expressed their willingness to collaborate.
In the days that followed, Zhang Liang operated like a well-oiled machine. During the day, he was on the front lines of market research and partner negotiations; at night, he used the advanced market analysis framework to dig deep into data and refine the project plan. Every detail was carefully considered, every communication genuine. Gradually, he solidified his position within the team, becoming an indispensable "practical force."
Summary: In this chapter, Zhang Liang receives the system's reward of an advanced market analysis framework and a "Charm Boost" aura, leading to an exciting project opportunity. Following the system's advice and embodying the wisdom of Laozi's "By being selfless, you can achieve what's yours," Zhang Liang dedicates himself to the project, breaking through colleagues' doubts and integrating into the team. In the next chapter, as the project progresses, challenges such as resource allocation conflicts and external competition pressure will arise. Stay tuned to see how Zhang Liang tackles these new obstacles and continues his journey of success.