First place Quote by Kate Carlisle
““She came across as charming and efficient, but problems erupted as soon as she started. Two of my best people threatened to quit, so I took her off the project.” I could barely watch as she laughed and yakked like an intimate friend of both Ian’s and Baldacchio’s. On tonight of all nights, the opening of Abraham’s exhibition. I had to wonder, was she here because of me? Everyone in the business knew he’d been my teacher and mentor. Was I completely paranoid? I would’ve loved to pursue the topic of Minka’s shortcomings and find out how in the world she’d finagled a job at the Covington in the first place, but Abraham’s friend Doris interrupted us just then, grabbing Abraham’s arm and giving it a vigorous shake. “Now, what were you yelling about, old man?” she said. I almost snorted. “Doris Bondurant,” Abraham said formally, “I’d like to introduce my former assistant and now my greatest competition, Brooklyn Wainwright. Brooklyn, this is my old friend Doris Bondurant.” “Watch who you’re calling old, buster,” she said, and elbowed Abraham in””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Art of Competition, 2020
A manager questions a new colleague’s competence and feels insecure, highlighting workplace politics and self‑doubt
In simple terms: She doubts a new coworker and feels paranoid about motives
Address insecurities and evaluate performance fairly
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- Hiring decisions
- team management
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What evidence supports your concerns?
- How can you foster fair assessment?
Bias may cloud judgment and harm collaboration