Chapter 107 Unconventional
Chapter 107 Unconventional
Chapter 107 Unconventional (4k)
As Geng Zhi followed Qi Chuqin toward the administration building, his fingers flew across his phone screen as he assigned tasks to Yang Mingxia and Shu Beibei.
"Mingxia, the CCTV interview has been confirmed. Immediately activate the contingency plan, contact the *Shanghai Daily*, *Youth Daily*, and online media outlets such as NetEase, Sohu, and Xinyi, and prepare promotional materials simultaneously."
"Furthermore, I'm officially launching my personal Weibo account in Xinlang and linking it with the official Weibo account of 'Jiaotong University Matchmaker.' Starting today, I'll begin systematically building my personal entrepreneurial brand —"
"Beibei, coordinate with my senior brother Song Qing and senior sister Huang to have them temporarily work in office 315 to create a technical atmosphere in the administration building, in the office of Vice Principal Yang Jinqian."
Yang Jinqian was holding a small meeting with Minister Yin of the Publicity Department, Teacher Li of the Publicity Section of the School of Computer Science, and Jin Zhilong, the person in charge of the Science and Technology Innovation Park.
Yang Jinqian spoke calmly, with his usual caution: "This visit by the CCTV 'Finance Weekly' program to interview the 'Jiaotong University Matchmaker' project is an important showcase of our university's achievements in innovation and entrepreneurship education. We must adhere to the following principles."
"First, emphasize the 'industry-academia-research-application' model of education; second, stress the social welfare aspect of the projects; third, pay attention to protecting students and avoid excessive exposure of commercially sensitive information."
Minister Yin nodded hurriedly: "Principal Yang's instructions are very timely. Our publicity department will definitely follow these principles throughout the process, providing good service and ensuring quality control."
"Furthermore, the major official media channels of Jiaotong University should also follow up and report in a timely manner to create a synergistic effect," Yang Jinqian added.
"clear!"
As Yang Jinqian was speaking, he caught sight of Qi Chuqin appearing at the door with his students and immediately waved enthusiastically, "Hey, Old Qi, you've come at the right time! Come in!"
"Principal Yang, I've brought Geng Zhi and Chunmei with me," Qi Chuqin said with a smile.
"Hello, Principal Yang!" Geng Zhi and Ma Chunmei greeted him in unison, their attitude very respectful.
"Little Geng, well done! You've really made Jiaotong University proud!" Yang Jinqian said with a smile, patting Geng Zhi on the shoulder affectionately.
"Thank you for the compliment, President Yang! Actually, we owe our success to Jiaotong University. Without the Jiaotong University brand and its fertile ground for innovation, 'Jiaotong University Matchmaker' wouldn't be where it is today," Geng Zhi hurriedly replied modestly.
"Hmm, good, very good." Yang Jinqian was very satisfied with this statement, and even gave Qi Chuqin a special nod of approval, "Old Qi, your student has a very high level of ideological awareness!"
Qi Chuqin smiled so much that the wrinkles around his eyes smoothed out.
Yang Jinqian's attention was always on Geng Zhi, and he didn't know Ma Chunmei at all, so there was no interaction between them.
This made Ma Chunmei feel very uncomfortable, and her jealousy of Geng Zhi secretly increased.
"Minister Yin, I've found the person for you. Your publicity department will be in charge of coordinating the subsequent interviews and arranging the process. You must provide excellent assistance and at the same time, you must maintain the school's image," Yang Jinqian concluded.
"Don't worry, Principal Yang, I guarantee I'll complete the task!" Minister Yin replied, then beckoned to Geng Zhi, "Geng Zhi, come with me to the Publicity Department office, we'll discuss this in detail."
Seeing that Minister Yin hadn't asked about her, and Geng Zhi didn't seem to have any intention of introducing her, Ma Chunmei became a little anxious.
Fearing she would be left out, she quickly spoke up, "Minister Yin, I'm Ma Chunmei, CEO of Jiaotong University's matchmaking service. As the head of the company, shouldn't I also participate in this CCTV interview?"
These words startled both Yang Jinqian and Minister Yin, their gazes shifting between Ma Chunmei and Geng Zhi.
"President Yang, Minister Yin, Chunmei is indeed our company's CEO and is taking over all business operations. She will be in charge of the future operation and development of Jiaotong University's matchmaking service," Geng Zhi confirmed.
"I will definitely take the Jiaotong University matchmaker team to the next level and make Jiaotong University proud of us!" Ma Chunmei immediately followed up, her tone full of confidence.
Geng Zhi and Ma Chunmei made it very clear that any achievements of "Jiaotong University Matchmaker," good or bad, would be attributed to Ma Chunmei.
Yang Jinqian and Jin Zhilong, who was next to him, both frowned slightly, but neither of them said anything.
"Oh, so it's a business handover." Minister Yin suddenly realized, and then said, "Okay, I'll talk to CCTV. If there are no problems, you two can do the interview together."
"Thank you, Teacher Yin!" Ma Chunmei felt a weight lifted off her shoulders and quickly expressed her gratitude.
Geng Zhi, Ma Chunmei, Jin Zhilong, and Teacher Li from the School of Computer Science followed Minister Yin to the Publicity Department office.
Minister Yin solemnly yet kindly instructed Geng Zhi and Ma Chunmei: "Geng Zhi, Chunmei, when facing the camera tomorrow, remember three key points:"
"First, express gratitude to the school for its nurturing and mention the support provided by the entrepreneurship park and mentorship. Second, highlight the positive energy of the project, emphasizing its ability to address the social needs of university students and promote harmony. Third, be cautious in discussing commercial competition, avoid commenting on other dating platforms, and refrain from mentioning industry irregularities."
Geng Zhi and Ma Chunmei: "We've got it, Minister Yin."
"Xiao Geng, Chunmei, don't be too nervous. Just think of it as showcasing the spirit of Jiaotong University students. But remember, you are representing the image of the school right now, and every word and action is related to the reputation of your alma mater," Teacher Li added gently.
"We understand."
After giving the two instructions, Minister Yin asked again, "Alright, I plan to arrange the interview at the honor exhibition hall of the Student Innovation Center. The environment there is good and it looks good on camera."
"Take a look, do you have any important trophies, certificates, or the like that we can display together?"
Ma Chunmei subconsciously looked at Geng Zhi.
Geng Zhi didn't answer immediately, but thought for a moment and asked in return, "Professor Yin, why did CCTV suddenly take the initiative to interview our Jiaotong University matchmaker this time? And why was the notification so urgent?"
Minister Yin was taken aback by the question, then laughed and said, "That's because—you did a good job, it's newsworthy."
"Hmm—" Geng Zhi said with a polite smile, "Minister Yin, our Jiaotong University matchmaker didn't invite us, but CCTV suddenly came to interview us. I want to know the reason so I can determine how to make this interview as effective as possible."
"Know yourself and know your enemy, and you will win every battle." Ma Chunmei immediately chimed in.
"This—" Minister Yin hadn't really thought about this issue in detail. After recalling it for a moment, he said, "The reporter mentioned it on the phone, saying something about paying attention to the new phenomenon of 'marriage and love economy,' and that your model is quite novel and different from the traditional one."
Is the model novel? Geng Zhi quickly analyzed it in his mind.
Unlike traditional online platforms, this is clearly in contrast to established online platforms like Century Family Network. Therefore, the focus of the interview is likely to showcase the unique offline-focused operational model of "Jiaotong University Matchmaker".
"Oh, right," Minister Yin added, remembering something, "CCTV said they'll send us the interview outline tomorrow afternoon, then we'll know exactly what to ask."
The interviews are next, and the outline won't be given until tomorrow afternoon. It will be too late to prepare by then — Geng Zhi thought to himself.
He hesitated for a moment, then said, "Professor Yin, I have a suggestion. Could we change the interview location to our office in the science and technology park?"
"That won't do!" Minister Yin blurted out, "Your dilapidated land—"
She suddenly realized that Jin Zhilong was right next to her, and quickly changed her words: "Your place is clean, but it's nowhere near as nice as our school's exhibition hall! This interview is about Jiaotong University's reputation."
"Minister Yin, the CCTV reporter's interview is ultimately for the audience to see. I believe that compared to promotional videos, what the audience wants to see is authenticity—a real entrepreneurial environment and a down-to-earth college student team," Geng Zhi explained.
Seeing that Minister Yin's attitude seemed to have softened, Geng Zhi quickly added, "Minister Yin, our Jiaotong University matchmaker's innovative model emphasizes authenticity, which is why our Jiaotong University Science and Technology Innovation Park has been able to nurture so many outstanding companies. Right, Professor Jin?"
Jin Zhilong, receiving Geng Zhi's straightforward look, realized this was a good opportunity to promote the science and technology park and immediately chimed in, "Geng is right, Minister Yin. Authenticity and innovation—that's the image our park most wants to present to the outside world, and it best fits the tone of CCTV's exploration of 'new economy' stories."
Minister Yin did not have a deep understanding of the specific model of "Jiaotong University Matchmaker". Hearing Jin Zhilong say the same thing, he couldn't help but feel a little shaken.
On one hand, there's the "authenticity" that Geng Zhi and his friends emphasize, and on the other hand, there's the "image" that the school values. She's torn between these two options.
"But after all, it's going to be on CCTV—the effect will definitely be better in our bright and spacious exhibition hall filled with trophies." She still preferred the more controllable and visually appealing exhibition hall.
Geng Zhi noticed her hesitation and offered a compromise: "Professor Yin, how about this? We'll prepare for both scenarios. You can set up the exhibition hall as planned, so it can be used if we need to interview school leaders or shoot establishing shots. We'll also set up the offices in the science and technology park at the same time."
"At that time, we can provide CCTV reporters with information about both venues, and they can choose the final interview location based on the program's needs."
Jin Zhilong echoed, "That's a good idea, Minister Yin. Let's prepare two options for the reporters to choose from."
Minister Yin hesitated for a long time before finally nodding: "————Alright then, let's do as you say and prepare for both possibilities."
She then added with concern, "Gengzhi, Chunmei, you two must dress formally! Especially you, Gengzhi, you're a graduate student now, you should wear a suit and tie, and look smart."
"Okay, thank you for reminding me, Minister Yin!" Geng Zhi readily agreed.
Before leaving, Minister Yin thoughtfully handed two printed copies of "Precautions for Media Interviews and Standard Response Scripts" to Geng Zhi and Ma Chunmei respectively.
Ma Chunmei took the few pages of paper as if they were a treasure, feeling much more at ease knowing she had the "standard answer".
Geng Zhi quickly glanced at the bland, almost clichéd "suggestions" above, shook his head inwardly, but still sincerely thanked them on the surface.
As he left the school's publicity department office, Geng Zhi smiled and said to Jin Zhilong, "Professor Jin, our science and technology innovation park will become more and more famous in the future. I suggest that you also set up an exhibition hall in the park to serve as a showcase for various media interviews. The effect should be quite good."
Jin Zhilong's eyes lit up, and he stroked his chin, pondering seriously: "Hmm—Xiao Geng's suggestion is very constructive—"
After leaving the administration building, the three of them walked together toward the science and technology park.
On the way, Geng Zhi dialed Shu Beibei's number again: "Beibei, print out all the highlights of the 'If You Are the One' offline event and make a big photo wall in the new office —"
"There are also photos of you brainstorming all night, Senior Song coding all night, and thank-you letters from students who successfully formed couples—"
On the day of the interview.
After hearing the introduction, the CCTV program team unanimously decided to hold the interview with the founding team of "Jiaotong University Matchmaker" in the science and technology park, which has a more authentic entrepreneurial atmosphere.
Ma Chunmei, dressed in her finest attire, greeted Minister Yin, who was visiting her office, at the entrance of the science and technology park.
In fact, Minister Yin had already inspected the office twice yesterday afternoon. Under her guidance, the office was tidied up and organized, barely meeting her standard of "being photogenic".
"Chunmei, have you kept the office environment in order? Have you made a mess of it again?" Minister Yin asked with a smile.
"Don't worry, Teacher Yin! Our team has a strong execution ability, and the current environment is no worse than when you came yesterday!" Ma Chunmei assured confidently.
"That's good! The production team just finished interviewing school leaders in the administration building and should be here in about ten minutes. At this crucial moment, we absolutely cannot afford any mishaps," Minister Yin emphasized again with a serious expression.
"Minister Yin, rest assured, that will absolutely not happen."
"By the way, have you all memorized the response scripts I gave you?" Minister Yin asked as he walked.
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"I don't know about Geng Zhi's side, but I've memorized it perfectly," Ma Chunmei replied.
As they talked, they arrived at the door of office 315.
Ma Chunmei, her face beaming with smiles, eagerly opened the office door for Minister Yin. The moment the door opened, her smile froze, and she stood there dumbfounded.
The desk, which was neat and empty yesterday, is now slightly messy with a laptop, a water glass, and folders.
Several unfamiliar faces appeared in the office (Song Qing, Huang Haitang, Hao Pengxiang, and a part-time photographer).
The large whiteboard, which was originally tucked away in the corner, was moved to a more prominent position, with keywords such as "truth," "trust," and "false information (marked with a big red cross)" written on it.
What's even more eye-catching is that dozens of buckets of Master Kong braised beef noodles are neatly stacked in one corner of the office, forming a small wall of instant noodles.
Minister Yin, who entered next, swept his gaze across the entire office, his face instantly turning ashen, his suppressed anger almost bursting forth: "When I came yesterday afternoon, it wasn't like this! How come it's changed overnight? This is a CCTV interview! This is a CCTV interview! Have you all lost your minds?!"
She whirled around, her sharp gaze piercing Ma Chunmei: "Ma Chunmei! Is this what you promised me would only get better? Huh?"
Startled by the shout, Ma Chunmei trembled, both panicked and furious. She immediately yelled at the people in the office, "Who gave you permission to move things here? Who moved this whiteboard out? And what kind of look is this instant noodles, sitting here like this?"
The office was completely silent. Everyone was busy with their own tasks, heads down. No one got up to tidy up, and no one responded to her.
Ma Chunmei instantly understood that this must have been at Geng Zhi's behest!
She hurriedly turned to Minister Yin, trying to explain: "Teacher Yin, this—this must be Geng Zhi giving orders blindly!" Before she could finish speaking, Geng Zhi, who had just returned from the restroom, walked into the office with a relaxed expression.
Upon seeing Minister Yin, he immediately greeted her politely, "Professor Yin, you've arrived."
Minister Yin turned around and his gaze fell on Geng Zhi, which made him so angry that he almost fainted.
Instead of following her advice to wear formal new clothes, Geng Zhi wore a very ordinary tracksuit with a name tag bearing the "Jiaotong University Matchmaker" logo on his chest.
"Straightforward! You—" Minister Yin pointed at him, unable to speak coherently.
She was speaking when her phone rang. It was a subordinate reporting that the CCTV program team was about to arrive at the science and technology park.
Minister Yin stomped his foot angrily, pointed at Geng Zhi and Ma Chunmei, but ultimately had no time to lose his temper. He turned around and hurriedly went downstairs to greet them.
Geng Zhi, acting as if nothing had happened, clapped his hands at his colleagues in the office and said in a relaxed tone, "Everyone, just work as usual, pretend the camera isn't there. Be yourself today, the more natural the better."
After saying that, he winked quickly at Yang Mingxia, who was sitting in the corner, indicating that she should record every word of the interview.
PS: I'll be updating 4k at 0:00 first, and I'll be updating 10k daily more frequently in the near future.
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