Page 18 - The Administrator - A Startling True Story of Politics and Deception-

6 | N. PAUL ONUZURUIKE

“Many hiring managers would find you intimidating because of

your professional experience, academic preparation and
credentials; ageism -- they would rather hire someone fresh out

of college -- train the fresh meat the way they want and pay
them a fraction of your last salary; and there’s a ‘glass ceiling’

for someone who looks like you.”

For this book, I have carefully considered the question of what would be the
purpose of sharing my experience. What memories of those fifteen months do I deem

relevant to bring forth; how would my recollection of the events help the next
person? Specifically, how would you -- the reader -- benefit from my experience, if
for some unforeseen circumstance, you wind up in a similar situation? Honestly, I
pray you don't see yourself in a similar situation. I don't wish it on anybody; well,
except on my enemies, if I had any. Not because I am a rare breed, or more capable

of handling the situation than anyone else. Truth be told, I went through a few
instances where I almost caved. This was my starting point for The Administrator:

Based on A True Story, and later, The Administrator: A Startling True Story.

I recall a time -- not too distant -- when losing a job was fraught with societal
stigma like the "Scarlet Letter" on one's forehead. In the 'good old days,' if you could
indulge me to use the phrase, one was fired for failure to discharge their assigned

duties, and for being lazy -- including behaviors related to tardiness. That's not the
case today. Other factors such as office politics, "not a good fit," are sometimes the
reasons for job separation. Some even have lost their job because they were "high-
performing" workers; in this situation, an inept supervisor doesn't want a "high-

performing" employee make them appear inadequate. Also, do not forget the case of
nepotism -- bringing someone on board because of favoritism. For example, we are
witnessing increasing occurrences where auditors are finding unjustifiable