“Margaret, I don’t actually believe any of that!”
“Several members of our senior management team are over fifty. Including me. Do you consider us liabilities?”
“No! Absolutely not!”
“Then explain yourself.”
Elias loosened his collar. Even through the monitor, I could see perspiration forming on his forehead.
Beside me, Nina whispered, “Oh, he’s in trouble.”
I crossed my arms and watched him struggle to explain.
The worst was still coming.
“Someone must have inserted that slide by mistake,” Elias insisted.
Margaret folded her hands.
“Did you review this presentation before coming here?”
He hesitated.
“Of course I did.”
“Then explain the next slide.”
Elias swallowed and reluctantly advanced.
**WHY YOUNGER LEADERSHIP PRODUCES BETTER RESULTS**
The slide suggested older employees should give way to younger, more energetic, and more attractive replacements.
One executive raised his eyebrows while another folded her arms.
“More attractive?” Margaret repeated. “Do you genuinely believe someone’s appearance determines their professional value?”
