A man applied for an executive position at a canning factory and mistakenly insulted the production manager, Henry Flanaghan, whom he mistook for a lowly worker. “Hey, old beggar, where’s your boss’s room?” the man sneered. Henry, covered in grease from fixing a broken machine, was taken aback but chose to stay polite.
Henry led the man, Leonard, to his office and conducted the interview. Despite the initial insult, Henry was impressed by Leonard’s technical knowledge. “Yes, giving second chances is one of my best qualities,” Henry said, offering Leonard the job.
Leonard’s early arrogance faded as he learned the importance of respect and leadership from Henry. Over time, Leonard proved his worth and, upon Henry’s retirement, took over as the new manager. Henry’s lesson on humility and second chances ensured the company’s future success.