Maria had been working at the same company for five years. She started as a junior analyst and had slowly climbed the ranks. Every morning, she arrived at the office before anyone else. She believed that hard work would eventually be recognized and rewarded. One Monday morning, her manager called her into his office. 'Maria, please have a seat,' said Mr. Thompson with a serious expression. Her heart started beating faster as she wondered what this meeting was about. 'I have been watching your performance over the past year,' he continued. Maria held her breath, unsure whether the news would be good or bad. 'Your dedication and leadership skills have impressed the entire management team.' A small smile appeared on Maria's face as relief washed over her. 'We would like to offer you the position of Senior Project Manager,' he announced. Maria could hardly believe what she was hearing. This was the opportunity she had been dreaming about for years. 'Thank you so much, Mr. Thompson. I am honored,' she replied gratefully. He handed her a folder containing the details of her new role and salary. The salary increase was significant, almost thirty percent more than before. Maria left the office feeling like she was walking on air. She immediately called her mother to share the wonderful news. 'I am so proud of you, dear!' her mother exclaimed with joy. However, not everyone in the office was happy about Maria's promotion. David, her colleague who had been there even longer, felt overlooked. He had applied for the same position and truly believed he deserved it. David began avoiding Maria in the hallways and during meetings. She noticed his cold behavior and felt uncomfortable about the situation. Maria decided to approach David directly to clear the air between them. 'David, can we talk for a moment?' she asked during lunch break. He shrugged his shoulders and reluctantly agreed to meet in the break room. 'I know this situation is difficult,' Maria began carefully. 'I have always respected your work and I still do.' David sighed and finally looked her in the eyes. 'I am sorry for being distant. I was disappointed and took it personally.' 'I understand completely,' Maria replied with empathy. 'I would have felt the same way if I were in your position.' They talked for another hour about their careers and future goals. By the end of the conversation, they had reached a mutual understanding. The following week, Maria officially started in her new position. She was responsible for leading a team of twelve people across different departments. The first major project assigned to her was launching a new product line. The deadline was tight, only three months to complete everything. Maria quickly organized the team and assigned specific tasks to each member. She believed in open communication and held weekly progress meetings. Some team members initially doubted her abilities because of her young age. However, Maria proved herself through her knowledge and dedication. She stayed late many evenings to help team members who were struggling. Slowly but surely, the team began to trust and respect her leadership. Two months into the project, an unexpected problem arose. One of the key suppliers informed them that they could not deliver on time. This threatened to delay the entire product launch by several weeks. Maria called an emergency meeting to discuss possible solutions. 'We need to find an alternative supplier as quickly as possible,' she stated. The team worked together, contacting companies all over the country. After three days of intense searching, they found a reliable replacement. The new supplier could meet their requirements and deliver within the deadline. Maria felt proud of how her team had handled the crisis together. The launch day finally arrived, and everything was ready. The company's executives attended the presentation, including the CEO. Maria presented the new product with confidence and professionalism. She explained its features, target market, and competitive advantages. The audience asked many questions, which she answered clearly and thoroughly. At the end of the presentation, everyone stood up and applauded. The CEO approached Maria afterwards and shook her hand warmly. 'Excellent work, Maria. You have exceeded all of our expectations.' Maria thanked him and looked around at her team with gratitude. This success would not have been possible without their collective effort. That evening, the company organized a celebration dinner for the team. Maria raised her glass and proposed a toast to her amazing colleagues. 'To the best team anyone could ever ask for!' she said proudly. Everyone cheered and clinked their glasses together. David was also there, and he walked over to congratulate Maria personally. 'You really deserve this success,' he said sincerely. 'I was wrong to be jealous.' Maria smiled and gave him a friendly hug. 'We are on the same team, David. Your time will come too.' Months passed, and the new product became one of the company's best sellers. Maria's reputation as an effective leader continued to grow within the organization. She was invited to mentor younger employees who wanted to advance their careers. Maria gladly accepted this responsibility, remembering how much guidance had helped her. She created a supportive environment where people felt comfortable asking questions. One year after her promotion, Maria reflected on everything that had happened. She had learned so much about leadership, teamwork, and herself. The challenges she faced had made her stronger and more confident. She understood that success was not just about personal achievement. It was about lifting others up and helping them reach their potential. Maria had become a true leader, not because of her title, but because of her actions. Her journey reminded her that growth often comes with discomfort and uncertainty. But facing those challenges head-on was what made the difference. As she walked into the office on a quiet Monday morning, she felt grateful. Grateful for the opportunity, for her team, and for how far she had come. The promotion had been just the beginning of her new chapter. And she was excited to see where it would take her next.
English Story (B1)The Promotion
This B1 English story is designed for intermediates learning English. It includes simple vocabulary and short sentences to help you improve your reading and listening skills. Click any word to see translations and hear pronunciation.
About this story
Maria receives a long-awaited promotion to Senior Project Manager after five years at her company. While she celebrates her success, a jealous colleague named David initially creates tension. Through open communication, they resolve their differences. Maria then leads her team through a challenging product launch, overcoming a supplier crisis along the way. Her leadership, dedication, and ability to support her team earn her respect and recognition. One year later, she reflects on how the experience transformed her into a true leader who understands that success is about lifting others up.
Translations in English
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Comprehension Questions
4 questions
1
How long had Maria been working at the company before her promotion?
2
What unexpected problem arose during Maria's first major project?
3
How did David initially react to Maria's promotion?
4
What happened at the end of Maria's product presentation?
Vocabulary
39 words from this story
