"Secretary, this gentleman is sincere with Guo Shao, not like those fair-weather friends," the explanation clarified.
Secretary Gao's expression tensed upon hearing this. When Song Qiao had mentioned Xiang Piaopiao earlier, he had already sensed something. Now, with Pan Bei's explanation, he realized he had misjudged the man. Years in politics had taught Secretary Gao how to adjust quickly.
After a second glance at Song Qiao, he extended his right hand. "So, Mr. Song is the owner of Xiang Piaopiao. It's truly an honor to meet you today."
"I heard your Xiang Piaopiao processing plant has helped Little Pan with the poverty alleviation tasks assigned by the city. That's excellent. On behalf of those less fortunate, I thank you, Mr. Song."
Song Qiao was taken aback by the swift change in the Secretary's attitude upon hearing the name Xiang Piaopiao. He quickly shook the Secretary's hand, responding politely, "Secretary Gao, you are too kind. This is the place where I was born and raised. It's only natural for me to give back to my hometown now that I've achieved some success."
"Haha, people used to say businessmen only cared about profit. Your words today have completely changed my perspective," the Secretary laughed heartily, praising Song Qiao. His loud voice immediately caught the attention of other influential figures present, many of whom cast envious glances. Some, with foresight, were already discreetly inquiring about Song Qiao, planning to connect with him after the Secretary departed.
After a brief exchange of pleasantries with Secretary Gao, Song Qiao politely excused himself. As the center of attention, the Secretary undoubtedly had other matters to attend to. Lingering would likely be perceived negatively.
As soon as Song Qiao stepped away from the inner circle, Pan Bei reappeared, introducing another well-built, middle-aged man. "Brother Song, I must introduce you to this gentleman. This is Mr. Shu Tao, Mr. Shu, the largest real estate developer in our provincial capital."
Song Qiao smiled faintly, his heart stirred with excitement. He had heard of this name in his previous life; Mr. Shu's influence ranked among the top in the province. He realized this ribbon-cutting ceremony had been a worthwhile endeavor. Over the next decade and more, the real estate industry would experience rapid growth, generating immense economic benefits. Many wealthy businessmen would rise to prominence during this period, becoming titans of commerce, including the boss who considered one hundred million yuan a modest target. If he could connect with Mr. Shu, he could quickly enter this sector, seize the opportunity, and get on board early.
"So it's Mr. Shu. I've long admired your reputation. Meeting you today is truly a stroke of fortune," Song Qiao thought, not daring to delay. He warmly shook Mr. Shu's hand.
Shu Tao, being from the south, had a slight Minnan accent. Fortunately, Song Qiao had traveled extensively in his previous life and was familiar with various dialects, allowing him to understand Mr. Shu easily.
Having witnessed Secretary Gao's cordial reception of Song Qiao, Shu Tao immediately wished to make his acquaintance. As soon as Song Qiao moved away, he found Pan Bei and asked him to make the introduction.
"I have a business venture here. I wonder if Mr. Song would be interested in investing?" After a brief exchange of pleasantries, Shu Tao got straight to the point.
"Oh? What kind of business are you referring to, Mr. Shu?" Song Qiao asked with a smile.
"The environmental regulations in the provincial capital are very strict. I intend to establish a factory in our city," Shu Tao quickly elaborated when he saw Song Qiao's interest.
"A steel mill?" Song Qiao's eyebrows raised slightly. This was no small undertaking. He nodded subtly at Shu Tao and said, "I am somewhat interested in this business, but I will need to consider it comprehensively."
Shu Tao beamed at Song Qiao's response. "Mr. Song, you have excellent vision. How about we have dinner tonight? I can then provide you with a more detailed introduction."
"Certainly. I have time tonight. Please make the arrangements, Mr. Shu." After a moment of thought, Song Qiao agreed to Shu Tao's invitation.
...
Around two or three in the afternoon, the ribbon-cutting ceremony officially concluded. With a word from the Secretary, the construction of the three-star hotel commenced, with completion of the initial phase expected in about six months. Song Qiao had consumed a considerable amount of alcohol at the subsequent banquet. Old Hu was now preparing to drive him back to the processing plant for a brief rest. After all, he had a dinner appointment with Shu Tao at Xinyuan Restaurant that evening, which promised to be another challenging encounter.
"Boss, there's something I'd like to report," Old Hu said cautiously, glancing at Song Qiao, who was dozing in the back seat, as he drove.
"Mr. Wang used to have a secretary named Qin Ya. She left for abroad some time ago and has just returned. Would it be possible for her to work as your secretary?"
Song Qiao chuckled softly. "Of course. I am in need of a secretary. Since you're recommending her, Old Hu, I can trust her implicitly."
Old Hu was surprised that Song Qiao agreed without hesitation and felt a surge of joy. "Thank you, boss, for your trust. I guarantee she will achieve great things by your side."
Song Qiao waved his hand dismissively, indicating that Old Hu needn't be so formal.
As soon as Song Qiao alighted from the car, Old Hu eagerly notified Qin Ya to come to the factory for an interview. After returning from visiting relatives abroad, Qin Ya found that Wang Fugui's factory was on the verge of collapse, leaving her unemployed. Upon receiving Old Hu's call, she was overjoyed. She meticulously dressed up and hurried to the factory.
After a brief interview, Song Qiao found Qin Ya to be a detail-oriented young woman, well-suited to handling his trivial tasks. He promptly hired her on the spot. Coincidentally, Li Lili had introduced him to another out-of-town client. Since Song Qiao had his meeting with Shu Tao that evening, he arranged for Qin Ya to meet the client on his behalf.
Qin Ya was deeply moved by the trust her new boss placed in her by assigning her such an important task so soon after hiring her. She patted her chest, assuring Song Qiao that she would secure the order. Song Qiao didn't say much more. This client meeting was, in fact, a test for Qin Ya. If she succeeded, he would entrust her with some of the factory's projects in the future.
The wise lead with their minds, while the subordinates labor with their bodies. As the head of a company, Song Qiao could not personally handle every matter. He needed capable employees to assist him, while he himself would focus on steering the company and guiding its overall direction.