In his university time, Mark Hurd was represented to compete(竞争) for the chairman of the Students’ Union. Though very confident, he lost the chance for his over modesty and carefulness when answering questions. This had a bad influence on him when he graduated and looked for his job.
Still dismay, though he was hired by HP Company with excellent ability. He thought for a long time and then came to a conclusion—he was lost by the so-called modesty.
The other day, the board(董事会) called him to represent the board meeting. Mark felt the same scene as ever. The board wanted to let Mark become the CEO. That was because there were some problems in publicity and sale.
“Are you confident to do a better job for HP Company?” Mark faced the same question.
Then Mark gave the opposite reply than the last time. He said, “There is no doubt that I can promise. At least be better than now. ”
In fact, Mark did an excellent job. Ever since his nomination, HP Company produced different styles of products.
When being interviewed, the reporter asked, “Someone thinks you are gentle, wise and modest. We would like to know your opinion.” Mark expressed his understanding on “modesty”. He insisted that unreasonable modesty is a double-edged sword, which may destroy his future.
He said that to be really modest, keep three points in mind:
Firstly, modesty is not to deny(否定) yourself, for it let you lose the chance and feel sorry.
Secondly, modesty is to evaluate(评价) yourself below your ability. For example, if you can get A, then be sure you can get B+.
Lastly, modesty is not to say “Sorry, I am not able to do it.” Actually, when we succeed, we should say “everyone can do that if you work hard” to answer others’ praise.
36. Why
did Mark Hurd fail to be the chairperson of the Students’ Union?
A.He was too confident. | B.He didn’t get ready for it. |
C.He is too modest. | D.He didn’t have the ability |
37. What does the underlined word “dismay” mean in para 2?
A.modest | B.sad | C.surprised | D.creative |
38. What is Mark’s understanding of modesty?
A.It is important for everyone to work hard. |
B.To be modest is a chance for getting a good job. |
C.You should evaluate(评价) yourself in a proper way. |
D.Modesty is a good way to achieve our success. |
39. What can we know from the passage?
A.Modesty can encourage people to be more confident. |
B.Mark was a successful CEO of HP Company. |
C.Mark was not confident to answer the board’s questions. |
D.Modesty is the only key to find jobs. |
40. What does the passage mainly tell us?
A.Over modesty isn’t helpful in life or work. | B.Ability is always important for people. |
C.Modesty helps one to be successful. | D.A person’s ability decides modesty. |