Waiting in Agony

I am waiting for 2 things – my Audit grade and a potential job offer. One is driving me insane and the other has become an afterthought.

Surprisingly, the wait for the job offer is what’s killing me (I actually had to make a note in my planner to remember to check my Audit grade). Usually, I desperately want to know if I passed or failed on a part of the CPA Exam. I can’t focus on studying for the next part I’m taking because I check my grade a hundred times a day. This time I gave the test my best shot and whatever happens, happens.

Generally, the interview process goes by quickly – I like your company, one of the recruiters I’m working with (or I) sends you my resume, you like my resume and ask me to come in for an interview, we meet, then we decide if we are right for each other. The first interview is like a blind date where both sides want to put their best face forward and at the end of the first meeting conclude if this connection should go any further. Even though we both look good on paper, you might not like me or I might not like you. Yes, it is possible for a job candidate to reject a job (instead of the other way around). I understand it’s not a job candidate’s job market, but I still believe you should be happy with the company and the people you would have to work with.

This job is a different story because I feel like I invested so much into interviewing, in terms of effort, time and money. I wanted to guarantee I would get this particular job. I had to endure 3 interviews (with long waits between each) and bring my “A game” each time. I had to purchase a 3rd business suit and travel into the city (both pricey when you are unemployed). But the most work was on practicing how I could convey to them that my skills and experience are what they are looking for. No more being humble and letting my resume speak for itself; I had to sell. I was determined to be THE candidate.

When you go on an interview, you have to show the interviewer, who may be your potential employer, that you really want to work there (without sounding desperate) and that hiring you would be the best decision they ever made. In order to project this, you have to convince yourself first. On the train ride to the city, I would read my notes on the company and have conversations with myself (in my head, not out loud). I would ask myself what my strengths and weaknesses are. I would then come up with a “30 second pitch” summarizing what I bring to the table and how I can help them with the challenges they are facing now and in the future.

As I stood outside the building before each of the 3 interviews at this company, I told myself “I have to work here. I NEED to work here.”

Hopefully, they will feel the same way.