I (30), Who Works for a Black Company and Died While Regretting My Gloomy Life, Started Over From High School!

Chapter 108: Part-Time Job Interview for a Corporate Slave

I would like to thank you for taking the time today! My name is Niihama Shinichiro. Nice to meet you!

Upon entering the managers office, I energetically greeted the manager, who was the interviewer.

Then, I bowed at a thirty-degree angle, turned around to close the door, and waited to be prompted before taking a seat. I placed my hands on my knees and straightened my back.

(I surprisingly remember this kind of stuff.)

Although I didnt consciously focus on this sequence of movements, due to having repeated interviews during my job-hunting days after high school, it seems to have become ingrained in my body, much like riding a bicycle.

Seeing me, the young and attractive eyeglasses-wearing female managerMs. Mishima, who had a slightly reserved appearanceseemed somewhat puzzled and muttered, Job seeker? I admit I didnt come across as a typical high school student applying for a part-time job.

Cough Yes, I am Yuko Mishima, the acting store manager. Thank you for coming today. So, well Im curious, why were you waiting in front of the store so early?

Huh!?

At the slightly perplexing question from Mishima, I inadvertently let out a surprised voice.

Until just a moment ago, I had been waiting outside for the interview. Mishima had come out and called me in earlier than expected, so the interview started much sooner than the scheduled time. However

Could it be Did my distorted personality come across again!?

Uh, well May I ask if its not common to wait several hours in advance in situations like this?

Well, I mean, its far from common Early arrival is a good attitude, but if you just dont end up being late, its fine.

Is, is that so!? I, I apologize for that!

Mishimas exasperated tone made me lower my head in apology. While it makes sense if I think about it calmly, the curse ingrained in me seems to run deeper than I thought.

Phew Seriously, who on earth taught you something like that? Did you watch some sketchy etiquette tutorial or something?

No, its not like that Its just that the environment where I learned workplace common sense, or rather, the companys common sense, was quite different

Um, actually At my previous no, my previous part-time job, whenever I made an appointment for a meeting or discussion with my supervisor, I was often severely scolded with remarks like I came two hours early because I had time, so why werent you waiting?! And Ive been repeatedly told, in my workplace overall, that its only natural for a subordinate to be prepared to accommodate changes in plans by superiors

Huh?

As Mishima seemed unable to comprehend what I was saying, her young face displayed a bewildered expression.

Or rather, does it seem like such an environment would be normal?

Thats far from normal, you know!?

Her voice, tinged with exasperation, interrupted me. While she gave off an impression of being rather composed, it seems shes the type to show her emotions more than I thought.

What kind of company is that!? To demand that you unilaterally adjust your schedule to changes made at the convenience of your superiors Its one thing to be prepared, but expecting that is a whole different level of social ineptitude!

.

Her anger was quite refreshing to me.

While its obvious that what Im saying doesnt make sense, the fact that a working adult, a figure from the world I once admired, is criticizing this abnormality makes me feel somewhat relieved.

Got it? Forget everything those pathetic adults told you! Dont ever step foot into a workplace where people like that are! Even after graduating, avoid those places like the plague!

Y-Yes!

These words, expressing concern for the future of the younger generation, were repeated once again, and my opinion of this female manager increased significantly.

(Ah, this person Shes someone from the world I admired)

A workplace with common sense and ethical behavior of a proper working environment.

This wasnt just a figment of my imagination; it was indeed a reality in this world. Witnessing this person, a grown-up, openly criticizing the abnormality within the workplace and working conditions, made me feel somewhat relieved about my trauma associated with labor.

? Well, alright. Since I understand your motives a bit better now, shall we proceed with the interview? Ugh, geez, youve written so much here that I hardly have anything to ask

It seems she decided to take a more straightforward approach, and while saying this in a somewhat laid-back manner, Mishima looked at the resume I had written with a mix of exasperation and admiration.

Normally, this is where theyd inquire about when I can start working and such For the time being, Ive jotted down everything I could think of.

Distance and commute time from home to the store, preferred work hours and days, expected duration of the part-time job, exam periods and theres even a consent form from my parents and school attached.

I thought I had included all the information the hiring side would want but maybe that also didnt come across as typical of a high school student. Mishima-san had a wry smile as she followed the content with her eyes.

Well, lets see, about your motivation for applying Hmm, this is pretty standard. Matching the hourly wage and commuting conditions, right?

Yes, the part-time job conditions that this store is offering align very well with my preferences.

When she said this is pretty standard, I was slightly taken aback, but it seemed my straightforward and simple motivation was accepted.

Well, thats not the only reason I wanted to work at this store.

Hmm, I see. These conditions would be very much appreciated here

(Huh?)

Suddenly, a shadow crossed Mishima-sans expression.

A mixture of anxiety and anticipation emanated from her, and a faint hint of wariness and distrust appeared.

(Hmm, could it be she wants to believe, but shes afraid of being let down?)

I understand that surge of emotion quite well, having experienced it many times myself.

That feeling you get from suppliers who promise, Leave it to me! Ill have the delivery done in three days! or bosses who boast, If anything happens, Ill take full responsibility!its the manifestation of doubts like, Are they really going to keep their promises?

I have a question Id like to ask. Do you know about the company behind this store? Also, there should be a few book cafes within your commuting range. Why did you choose us? Its probably not just because of the pay, right?

This question might seem unnecessary for a regular part-time job interview.

While its somewhat toned down, its a question akin to the confirmation of interest in the company and the extent of research or a similar inquiry regarding a respectable motivation thats beyond for the money.

(I see probably trying to gauge how serious I am about this part-time job.)

Mishima-san is observing my face intently.

In other words, she wants to see my reaction.

The question itself likely doesnt matter all that much.

Its probably about assessing whether I can respond quickly under pressure as a high school student, whether Ill scramble to answer or answer casually with a reluctant expression Its a way to get a sense of how seriously Im taking this.

Alright then, Ill answer with all my might and seriousness, to make sure she understands Im not someone who takes things lightly.

Yes, first, regarding this Book Cafe Rakunan: Im well aware of it. Its a test store where Chiaugaku Bookstore, in search of new bookstore business models, has combined the concepts of all-you-can-read books and a cafe, following Zone A and Zone H, its the third store. Ive heard that based on the results, there are plans to expand to F, H, and K prefectures.

Huh?

Mishima-sans eyes widened, perhaps surprised by the content of my nonchalant answer. She probably didnt expect such a clear response.

And as for why I was drawn to this store beyond the wage, its definitely because of its innovative concept. Ive always been interested in working at a bookstore With the rise of e-books, your companys foresight in exploring the future of bookstores is truly remarkable. I have a strong interest in this forefront Book Cafe store.

Um, well!?

Mixing the stores origin and concept with my motivation, I saw Mishima-san becoming increasingly bewildered.

But for me, I had researched this stores details and my motivation was genuine when I decided to apply, and even though I had initially included this part in the motivation section of my resume looking at the tightly filled-in form, I suddenly wondered, Could it be that all they expect from a high school students motivation is a desire for spending money? So, I simplified it.

So, well, this part about research and motivation is well-covered from my job-hunting preparation days.

And among the rival stores with a similar concept, I felt most drawn to work at this store, which is trying to attract a stylish and wide range of customers. My answer might be a bit clumsy, but thats about it from my perspective.

I-I see

When I finished answering, Mishima-san responded with a mix of admiration, exasperation, and a somewhat horrified expression.

It reminds me of the pressure-filled interview with Tokimune-san from some time ago.

When I explained my thoughts about the future during that time, that person also had a similar expression

W-Well, Ive been surprised by a lot, but anyway, I do understand that youre extremely diligent. And yes, thats actually what our store needs the most right now.

Although I did my best to earnestly answer what was asked, Mishima-sans reaction was a bit strained, her face looking quite serious.

If I strained my ears, I could faintly hear her mutter under her breath, I did want someone serious, but this is a bit extreme! Is there no middle ground!?

I wonder if I should have acted a bit more carelessly?

Phew Ahh Yes, youre hired, Niihama-kun. Can you start from next Saturday?

! R-Really!? Im incredibly happy!

I seemed to have puzzled Mishima-san as the interviewer, but it appeared I managed to pass after all, and I felt genuinely elated.

Even though it takes some courage for me to face labor, considering my cause of death in my previous life Its a part-time job, but this opportunity to work again can be considered a step forward in my revenge life.

In that case, Ill do my best, so please take care of me! Oh, by the way, since Im a new employee, should I clean the entire store from early morning on my first day?

We dont have such a draconian tradition for newbies like that!? Just forget that outdated idea and throw it away!

Confirming something that used to be the norm in my past lifes company, Mishima-san shouted loudly in an exaggerated manner.