The Interview

“You really shot yourself in the foot,” he said.

I looked down at the burrito I was supposed to be eating. I had only ordered it because the last time my boss came to talk to me we visited the same place, and I did not eat, and it felt somewhat awkward. Never mind that I had eaten about two hours earlier and I really can’t eat when I’m nervous or stressed; the desire to place some sort of normalcy into 4 days’ worth of apprehension was my top priority.

“Here’s where you messed up.” He proceeded to give me a breakdown of the two spots in which I’d done damage to myself during the interview, both of which I was aware of. The interview was with his boss, short and clipped and detached.

“He said no.”

“OK.” I looked down again.

“Don’t get discouraged!” He proceeded to discuss the ideas he had for development and increasing rankings and told me some stories about his previous life before this job. He told me he still thinks I am probably the best person for the job, we’ve just had a setback, and he is going to do some research, as well as interview a few other candidates.

He said he will keep me posted.

It’s the best criticism I’ve ever received. I would rather know a million times over why I didn’t get a job. The REAL reason, not a fluffy reason. Not a reason that is legitimate that is backed up with false promises for development.

Just tell me I shot myself in the foot. Tell me when, where, and how. Tell me about the time you shot yourself in the foot. And tell me to not be discouraged. Tell me you still have my back if you do have it.

Have I mentioned I like my boss, and I think he’s going to be pretty great as time goes on?

5 Comments »

  1. Kimmy Said:

    on December 21, 2013 at 2:06 am

    I don’t really have any of my own interview stories, but knowing why I didn’t do well during one would be really helpful. I guess because constructive criticism isn’t exactly seen as helpful or something many want to hear. Probably because many of us don’t like being told when we are doing something wrong. You have such a great attitude about this and I really hope you aren’t discouraged by this. Having your boss tell you how he still sees you as the best one for the job, is beyond fantastic. You should see this as a tiny snag, one that you’ve learned from. You have just a great mindset on life Ginger.
    I’ve missed you! Also, that Alice teapot is just beautiful. Thank you!

    [Reply]

    ginger Reply:

    You are welcome for the teapot!
    Thanks for the compliment šŸ™‚ It is hard, sometimes.

    [Reply]

  2. Mija Said:

    on January 2, 2014 at 10:57 am

    I’m sorry, I hope they reconsider. If not then don’t worry, sounds like your boss is rooting for you and I am sure you will get another shot!! At least he sat down with you and went over stuff…he seems to really care!

    [Reply]

    ginger Reply:

    Actually…crossing my fingers but it’s looking pretty likely that I am getting it, even after that. My optimism is most cautious at the moment.

    [Reply]

    Mija Reply:

    @ginger, super proud of you <3 What an emotional roller coaster but its going to be worth it!! <3

    [Reply]

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