OK.. as I am getting my arms around the thought of potentially moving out of Michigan, what better activity then to check out real estate and figure out if this is really feasible or not. The problem is that I am not exactly sure where we are supposed to live. I got some advice from a man who heads up the Jewish Federation in PA. He was really nice and told us that we would probably be happy in a particular area. I thought to myself ... this is great to pinpoint the right community. However, when I spoke to the relocation manager for the company and told her about the area, she said "oh that is where some of the executives live - it is a very nice area." This gal maybe someone who reports to me in the future and all of sudden I felt like I was a snob. I mean, I am happy that I am moving up in the organization but I certainly don't think of myself as an executive. It also made me nervous about the house prices and if I locked myself into something that I cannot afford. I quickly backtracked and told her that I received this recommendation from someone that I spoke with during a 15 minute conversation and was happy to take her thoughts too. I hope I saved my image on this one.
I quickly went to a real estate website to look up some properties in this area. Yep, a little pricey but luckily found a few houses in our price range. But then I thought, who wants to live in the wannabe neighborhood... I guess I have to check it out when we get out there next week.
EASTER TRIP
Yes, we are going to be on the road to Pennsylvania on Easter. This is the final trip and look see around the area. I am fairly certain that I will get an offer but then again who knows. Every time I think I am done with the interview, there are more steps. Now I know I added this step because I could not possibly accept an offer if my family has not seen the area. The Relocation Manager mentioned that I would be interviewing with another slate of people on Monday and then hanging out with a realtor on Tuesday.
This means that I have to wear the suit. If you recall, I had this great suit that I guess I gave to the Salvation Army. I then went and bought a replacement suit and had it altered on the spot. I ended up not wearing it because I felt kind of like a she man in it. I then bought another suit (which is so cute) that I have already worn to my last all day interview with the company. So today I tried on the she man suit and actually thought it looked OK. Now I can't figure out if the suit is actually flattering and I imagined the whole man thing. At this point I am slated to wear it. I hope I don't change my mind because I won't have any options so it better stay cute!!
Realization
Getting a series of recommendations from various people will most likely get us to the best area for our family. I suppose it is an unfair questions to the Jewish Federation guy since he has know idea how much I can spend on a home. Realization 2 - I should embrace the fact that I am actually motivated to wear this suit. It was nice in the store so I am sure it is fine for the interview.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
DAY 67 - WHERE AM I REALLY?
As you know through my blog posts, I have been interviewing at a candy company out of state. And as hard as I tried not to like it.. I am really warming up to this opportunity.
I am actually getting excited about the future ... of course if it works out.
My executive recruiter has been pretty cryptic about where I am in this process. I was not sure if I was the only one or everyone proceeded ahead.. it was kind of confusing. Yesterday, she communicated that I was the final candidate and that the last interview would be with the VP, Human Resources.
I was excited to talk to the HR VP as I like to know if there is a competent person in the role. I was told that this interview was a formality but the VP had a recruiting background. It was reassuring to know that the team thought I was the best fit, but it is kind of nerve racking that I could potentially embarrass myself by bombing this discussion.
So to avoid that situation, I over prepared for our interview. I had my resume, my skill sheet, the success stories etc... I was ready to impress. It was refreshing when she called and said that she wanted to answer my questions and concerns. We had a nice talk and we clicked. It was so easy and comfortable... wow I can't believe it.
Realization
If you were to ask me which position I would end up going for - I would never have imagined that I would be seriously considering a move and going to work at a candy company. I guess I don't know nothing!! There is still a few more hurdles but I think this may be the one. Stay tuned.
I am actually getting excited about the future ... of course if it works out.
My executive recruiter has been pretty cryptic about where I am in this process. I was not sure if I was the only one or everyone proceeded ahead.. it was kind of confusing. Yesterday, she communicated that I was the final candidate and that the last interview would be with the VP, Human Resources.
I was excited to talk to the HR VP as I like to know if there is a competent person in the role. I was told that this interview was a formality but the VP had a recruiting background. It was reassuring to know that the team thought I was the best fit, but it is kind of nerve racking that I could potentially embarrass myself by bombing this discussion.
So to avoid that situation, I over prepared for our interview. I had my resume, my skill sheet, the success stories etc... I was ready to impress. It was refreshing when she called and said that she wanted to answer my questions and concerns. We had a nice talk and we clicked. It was so easy and comfortable... wow I can't believe it.
Realization
If you were to ask me which position I would end up going for - I would never have imagined that I would be seriously considering a move and going to work at a candy company. I guess I don't know nothing!! There is still a few more hurdles but I think this may be the one. Stay tuned.
Monday, March 29, 2010
DAY 66 - RECOVERING FROM THE WEEKEND
Here we are again - on my favorite day - Monday. As usual, I woke up lacking motivation to get into the job search again. This time I am not panicking since I have discovered my Monday pattern or apathy and sheer lack of purpose as I embrace another week of recruiters, bad job ads, and worthless e-applications etc..
I am still recovering from my full weekend of family birthday celebrations. My husband, daughter and dog all celebrate their special day within a week of one another. Each year, we throw a weekend of parties including a family dinner and then a kid's party for my daughter. Of course, through the whole process, my daughter never seems to sleep past 7:45 a.m. even when we go to bed late which happened every evening. Needless to say, when Monday arrives and we have to wake up early, not feeling like jumping out of bed and dancing the can-can. This is the only thing that I find frustrating about parenthood, I will never be able to sleep in. It is so aggravating because I love to sleep and think I am damn good at it. But since going suburbia I never get to sleep later than 8:30 a.m. If it is not the kid, it is my husband's snoring, or the dog barking. Even when I go away, such as my interview, my room was next to a family with loud kids... aaahhh. I guess sleep is overrated
Anyways, back to the blog at hand (since I am writing about my journey of unemployment), the whole weekend consisted of people asking how the job search is going. I found myself with my canned speech about how things are going well and that I may be close on one out of state opportunity. It then occurred to me, I have been out of work a long time already and I basically am down to one potential opportunity and the rest has dried up for one reason or another. I am kind of screwed. I mean if this one does not work out - I am back to the beginning again. That would be awful, since I am a lazy job seeker.
What is also scary that I need to start worry about money a little more than I have in the past. I thought for sure I would be employed by now. I never imagined that I would commit to writing this blog for 66 days. I am starting to realize that I am going stale. I am about to go on the one day old bread rack. It is really time to get serious and get a job.
One of the philosophies I have been used is to let it work out organically. Trust fate and the powers above me to help. I think things are coming together but what happens if this strategy gets me know where... I may become a greeter at Walmart. They may not even hire me because I am not always that friendly... yikes.
OTHER GOOD THINGS
I am trying to break this pre freak train I am riding on above, so let's switch to another topic. I want to thank everyone for the positive feedback I have been getting on this blog. You often wonder if anyone is reading my ranting and raving as I diligently try to write every business day. It makes me feel great when people can relate to what I am going through... So I do hope this is helpful to others who are unemployed to make them feel at a minimum that there is a bigger lunatic out there then them. I mean I just never thought I would be out of work this long... aaah..
It is also nice to get the morale support from friends and family. My brother -in law always mentions how he is kept current on what is happening with me through the blog. Actually what really happens is that his fiancee reads it everyday (thanks C) and provides him the executive briefing - isn't that hysterical. She is such a doll and can't wait for their wedding. She puts me to shame when it comes to productive work and motivation. She has planned her entire wedding and showed me the binder this weekend. Incredible work with a real eye on the detail. I should have her coach me on how to manage an effective job search. I am sure if we compared binders - her work wins.
REALIZATION
Being unemployed really takes fortitude to go the distance. It gets so depressing and long. Before you know it, you have been without a job for 66 days. One day you can have several opportunities brewing and then next moment - you got nothing. Continuing optimism and hope is the only way to keep this moving. It does get tough!!! Realization 2 - I need to set goals and milestones that are concrete. Even though my future sister in law has a much more fun milestone than I - she has something specific and tangible and therefore is making things happen to meet that commitment. I need to adopt her mentality and set hard dates for myself with outcomes. That is the only way to obtain a great career again.
I am still recovering from my full weekend of family birthday celebrations. My husband, daughter and dog all celebrate their special day within a week of one another. Each year, we throw a weekend of parties including a family dinner and then a kid's party for my daughter. Of course, through the whole process, my daughter never seems to sleep past 7:45 a.m. even when we go to bed late which happened every evening. Needless to say, when Monday arrives and we have to wake up early, not feeling like jumping out of bed and dancing the can-can. This is the only thing that I find frustrating about parenthood, I will never be able to sleep in. It is so aggravating because I love to sleep and think I am damn good at it. But since going suburbia I never get to sleep later than 8:30 a.m. If it is not the kid, it is my husband's snoring, or the dog barking. Even when I go away, such as my interview, my room was next to a family with loud kids... aaahhh. I guess sleep is overrated
Anyways, back to the blog at hand (since I am writing about my journey of unemployment), the whole weekend consisted of people asking how the job search is going. I found myself with my canned speech about how things are going well and that I may be close on one out of state opportunity. It then occurred to me, I have been out of work a long time already and I basically am down to one potential opportunity and the rest has dried up for one reason or another. I am kind of screwed. I mean if this one does not work out - I am back to the beginning again. That would be awful, since I am a lazy job seeker.
What is also scary that I need to start worry about money a little more than I have in the past. I thought for sure I would be employed by now. I never imagined that I would commit to writing this blog for 66 days. I am starting to realize that I am going stale. I am about to go on the one day old bread rack. It is really time to get serious and get a job.
One of the philosophies I have been used is to let it work out organically. Trust fate and the powers above me to help. I think things are coming together but what happens if this strategy gets me know where... I may become a greeter at Walmart. They may not even hire me because I am not always that friendly... yikes.
OTHER GOOD THINGS
I am trying to break this pre freak train I am riding on above, so let's switch to another topic. I want to thank everyone for the positive feedback I have been getting on this blog. You often wonder if anyone is reading my ranting and raving as I diligently try to write every business day. It makes me feel great when people can relate to what I am going through... So I do hope this is helpful to others who are unemployed to make them feel at a minimum that there is a bigger lunatic out there then them. I mean I just never thought I would be out of work this long... aaah..
It is also nice to get the morale support from friends and family. My brother -in law always mentions how he is kept current on what is happening with me through the blog. Actually what really happens is that his fiancee reads it everyday (thanks C) and provides him the executive briefing - isn't that hysterical. She is such a doll and can't wait for their wedding. She puts me to shame when it comes to productive work and motivation. She has planned her entire wedding and showed me the binder this weekend. Incredible work with a real eye on the detail. I should have her coach me on how to manage an effective job search. I am sure if we compared binders - her work wins.
REALIZATION
Being unemployed really takes fortitude to go the distance. It gets so depressing and long. Before you know it, you have been without a job for 66 days. One day you can have several opportunities brewing and then next moment - you got nothing. Continuing optimism and hope is the only way to keep this moving. It does get tough!!! Realization 2 - I need to set goals and milestones that are concrete. Even though my future sister in law has a much more fun milestone than I - she has something specific and tangible and therefore is making things happen to meet that commitment. I need to adopt her mentality and set hard dates for myself with outcomes. That is the only way to obtain a great career again.
Friday, March 26, 2010
DAY 65 - PRE SCREEN
Today I had a phone screen for a Talent Development Director of a building company. I spoke with an executive recruiter who had received my resume from the hiring company. I was flattered as I was referred and they heard nice things about me. Anyways, she said that she wanted to get to know what I had done in my career. She asked me to take her through my resume and how I chose my different roles.
She asked me to start at the end and I began discussing my first role and some of my responsibilities. I think I was driving her crazy after about 1 minute. She said very nicely but abruptly -- just tell me about why you left each role. Hmmm... OK, I told her quickly about leaving each position. She thanked me and said she would pass me on to the company.
Now... she was from Korn Ferry, a fairly prominent retained search firm in which her group will receive about 30% of the starting salary of the candidate chosen. I kind of feel like she did not do her job. I mean for that amount money, don't you think she should have interviewed me a bit... This has been a common occurrence I am noticing. Now there are two types of recruiters contingent or retained search. Contingent recruiters do not have a guarantee of payment from the company so they sort of send a group of resumes and see if anything sticks with the employer. But with retained, the agency is guaranteed the search and a nice fee for the candidate hired.
I guess what I am saying is why I am I boring the recruiter within the first 30 seconds of our interview when in fact that is her job. Why is this part of the process being done poorly? How is she able to present me when she only knows why I left various companies. Whatever...
BABYFACE
Today is my pug's 17th birthday and I am really proud that he has lived this long. Babyface is actually doing great... He loves his cookies, being petted and of course sleeping a lot. He is like an old man that must nap pretty much the entire day and night. He is very sweet and has given us a lot of joy. He also poops in our house a lot too which is a source of much aggravation. But I am not going to focus on that today. I remember the first time I met him from the pug rescue. He came running out with his tongue hanging out and started kissing me. It was love at first sight.
We had a small celebration in honor of his birthday including a hearty portion of snausages and a fun fuzzy squeaky toy. He is my boy!!
REALIZATION
There are good recruiters that are dedicated to their profession and probably are very thorough as their reputation depends on it. Others are doing it as a job and one day the lack of detail will burn them. Realization 2 - I love my puppy - even though he is an old dog - he is part of our family and we love him. May you live to 101 Babyface.
She asked me to start at the end and I began discussing my first role and some of my responsibilities. I think I was driving her crazy after about 1 minute. She said very nicely but abruptly -- just tell me about why you left each role. Hmmm... OK, I told her quickly about leaving each position. She thanked me and said she would pass me on to the company.
Now... she was from Korn Ferry, a fairly prominent retained search firm in which her group will receive about 30% of the starting salary of the candidate chosen. I kind of feel like she did not do her job. I mean for that amount money, don't you think she should have interviewed me a bit... This has been a common occurrence I am noticing. Now there are two types of recruiters contingent or retained search. Contingent recruiters do not have a guarantee of payment from the company so they sort of send a group of resumes and see if anything sticks with the employer. But with retained, the agency is guaranteed the search and a nice fee for the candidate hired.
I guess what I am saying is why I am I boring the recruiter within the first 30 seconds of our interview when in fact that is her job. Why is this part of the process being done poorly? How is she able to present me when she only knows why I left various companies. Whatever...
BABYFACE
Today is my pug's 17th birthday and I am really proud that he has lived this long. Babyface is actually doing great... He loves his cookies, being petted and of course sleeping a lot. He is like an old man that must nap pretty much the entire day and night. He is very sweet and has given us a lot of joy. He also poops in our house a lot too which is a source of much aggravation. But I am not going to focus on that today. I remember the first time I met him from the pug rescue. He came running out with his tongue hanging out and started kissing me. It was love at first sight.
We had a small celebration in honor of his birthday including a hearty portion of snausages and a fun fuzzy squeaky toy. He is my boy!!
REALIZATION
There are good recruiters that are dedicated to their profession and probably are very thorough as their reputation depends on it. Others are doing it as a job and one day the lack of detail will burn them. Realization 2 - I love my puppy - even though he is an old dog - he is part of our family and we love him. May you live to 101 Babyface.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
DAY 64 - ISABELLE'S COMMENTS
MY DAUGHTER
I am sitting in my daughter's room waiting for her to fall asleep and she asked me to read my last blog post to her. She felt it was important for me to mention her following comments: 1. Mommy you should call Blane and get him out of your life. You should not have to pay money for his help and 2. Mommy I think your blog is a little bland - it needs some spice or salsa.
OK... I am going to listen to her advice and get the California recruiter out of my life and also try to add some salsa to this blog... let's see how I do.
VISIONING EXERCISE
I am not sure if anyone else does this but for every job that I interview for, I imagine going to work for them. Now I don't mean like big picture but a real day. It is the same for each company. I wake up early, go for a run, put on a cute suit (always with a briefcase - which usually never happens in real life), drive to work and then go to my new office and work with my new colleagues. So in my mind I have gone to work for an automotive interior company, brake and steering systems company, fluid carrying system company, independent consultant, chocolate maker, home construction, medical devices etc... I am exhausted with these visions - I have almost put a full month in of imaginary work. Not to mention the fact that I should get my imaginary suit dry cleaned.
I think it is good to vision these days but it is certainly disappointing when the job does not progress. So much wasted creative thinking I go through... I just wondered if anyone else gets emotionally attached like me? I am noticing as the rejections come in, it is getting easier and the recovery is a lot faster. Maybe my imaginary engagement level to these days are easing up - I am a non committed fake employee.
HOME PROJECTS
I promised that I was going to do all this work around the house and I am disappointed to report that not much has happened. I successfully purged the home and completed a deep clean of both my bathroom and bedroom and then stopped (I was supposed to do my entire house). However, my husband and I are about to complete a creative project in our home that should have taken about a week and we are bringing it in at 2.5 weeks. That is pretty good for us. We painted and chalk/magnet board on the wall for my daughter's art. It actually looks good... hurrah..
REALIZATION
Kids always think their parents are boring and bland. I thought mine were and I am sure when my daughter has kids they will think she is too!! Realization 2 - Part of change is visioning how the new role may look and feel. A little creative role playing never hurt anyone unless you actually showed up to one of these companies really and thought you were an official employee. That has happened so I am in good shape.
I am sitting in my daughter's room waiting for her to fall asleep and she asked me to read my last blog post to her. She felt it was important for me to mention her following comments: 1. Mommy you should call Blane and get him out of your life. You should not have to pay money for his help and 2. Mommy I think your blog is a little bland - it needs some spice or salsa.
OK... I am going to listen to her advice and get the California recruiter out of my life and also try to add some salsa to this blog... let's see how I do.
VISIONING EXERCISE
I am not sure if anyone else does this but for every job that I interview for, I imagine going to work for them. Now I don't mean like big picture but a real day. It is the same for each company. I wake up early, go for a run, put on a cute suit (always with a briefcase - which usually never happens in real life), drive to work and then go to my new office and work with my new colleagues. So in my mind I have gone to work for an automotive interior company, brake and steering systems company, fluid carrying system company, independent consultant, chocolate maker, home construction, medical devices etc... I am exhausted with these visions - I have almost put a full month in of imaginary work. Not to mention the fact that I should get my imaginary suit dry cleaned.
I think it is good to vision these days but it is certainly disappointing when the job does not progress. So much wasted creative thinking I go through... I just wondered if anyone else gets emotionally attached like me? I am noticing as the rejections come in, it is getting easier and the recovery is a lot faster. Maybe my imaginary engagement level to these days are easing up - I am a non committed fake employee.
HOME PROJECTS
I promised that I was going to do all this work around the house and I am disappointed to report that not much has happened. I successfully purged the home and completed a deep clean of both my bathroom and bedroom and then stopped (I was supposed to do my entire house). However, my husband and I are about to complete a creative project in our home that should have taken about a week and we are bringing it in at 2.5 weeks. That is pretty good for us. We painted and chalk/magnet board on the wall for my daughter's art. It actually looks good... hurrah..
REALIZATION
Kids always think their parents are boring and bland. I thought mine were and I am sure when my daughter has kids they will think she is too!! Realization 2 - Part of change is visioning how the new role may look and feel. A little creative role playing never hurt anyone unless you actually showed up to one of these companies really and thought you were an official employee. That has happened so I am in good shape.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
DAY 63 - YOU ARE NOT MY FRIEND?
I am a person that is pretty skeptical at times and being in recruiting I don't take a lot of stock in what executive recruiters tell me usually. Even in our outplacement classes, we are told that Executive Recruiters are not the job seekers friend.
I guess I am becoming vulnerable and maybe a little lonely because I am chatting with recruiters like they are my best friend. I think I am weakened through this whole process. Anyways, the other day I received an e-mail that asked me if I wanted a top talent acquisition position with a Fortune 200 company. If I did, according to this e-mail, then I needed to send a resume and fill out this candidate sheet.
Now I am a girl that wants to do the least amount of unnecessary work plus this message was a little suspicious to me. So I sent my resume and said that I needed to know where this position was before I would fill out the sheet. I ended up getting a call from "let's call him Blane." He was this recruiter from California that talked about his approach which was different from other recruiters. He gets to know his candidates and so he can make the best placements. He proceeds to tell me that he has in's to the top fortune 500 companies .. yada yada yada. You know as I am writing this, it really has FRAUD written all over it.
He then said that he was going to forward my resume to his client at Amazon as they were looking for a Director, Talent Acquisition. I said that in return I would fill out his bio sheet. So I did and sent it in. He called me a few hours later and congratulated me for qualifying to be one of his clients. I thought this was kind of odd. He began to tell me that he spends time with his clients and provides advice etc.. I told him thanks and moved on. He also said that he would send me this monthly report he puts out to his clients. I again thanked him and was pretty much done.
I received a voice mail the next day from Blane and he said that one of his client company's had an interesting opportunity that would be right down my alley. I called him back amd have not heard from him in two days. I actually did not think anything of it until I was speaking to my former boss today who is also in this unemployment predicament. He also talked to Blane and asked me if I received his report. I said I thought I did but had not opened it up. My former boss said that this report for "members" has a fee of $200 and he received an invoice with it.
I think I got scammed. My gut told me - why would this guy want to chat with me so much? But my spirit is down and I guess my edge is not as razor sharp as it used to be. How embarrassing ... actually as I was writing this it is so obvious!!!
Realization
Most executive recruiters are loyal to the business paying their fees not the candidate. Beware of recruiters wanting to be your friend... too good to be true. Not don't get me wrong there are a lot of nice people out there .. but the legitimate ones do not have time to talk about "you" if it is not directly related to search they have in hand. How lame am I getting.... I guess all I can do is laugh and have a vodka cranberry... CHEERS
I guess I am becoming vulnerable and maybe a little lonely because I am chatting with recruiters like they are my best friend. I think I am weakened through this whole process. Anyways, the other day I received an e-mail that asked me if I wanted a top talent acquisition position with a Fortune 200 company. If I did, according to this e-mail, then I needed to send a resume and fill out this candidate sheet.
Now I am a girl that wants to do the least amount of unnecessary work plus this message was a little suspicious to me. So I sent my resume and said that I needed to know where this position was before I would fill out the sheet. I ended up getting a call from "let's call him Blane." He was this recruiter from California that talked about his approach which was different from other recruiters. He gets to know his candidates and so he can make the best placements. He proceeds to tell me that he has in's to the top fortune 500 companies .. yada yada yada. You know as I am writing this, it really has FRAUD written all over it.
He then said that he was going to forward my resume to his client at Amazon as they were looking for a Director, Talent Acquisition. I said that in return I would fill out his bio sheet. So I did and sent it in. He called me a few hours later and congratulated me for qualifying to be one of his clients. I thought this was kind of odd. He began to tell me that he spends time with his clients and provides advice etc.. I told him thanks and moved on. He also said that he would send me this monthly report he puts out to his clients. I again thanked him and was pretty much done.
I received a voice mail the next day from Blane and he said that one of his client company's had an interesting opportunity that would be right down my alley. I called him back amd have not heard from him in two days. I actually did not think anything of it until I was speaking to my former boss today who is also in this unemployment predicament. He also talked to Blane and asked me if I received his report. I said I thought I did but had not opened it up. My former boss said that this report for "members" has a fee of $200 and he received an invoice with it.
I think I got scammed. My gut told me - why would this guy want to chat with me so much? But my spirit is down and I guess my edge is not as razor sharp as it used to be. How embarrassing ... actually as I was writing this it is so obvious!!!
Realization
Most executive recruiters are loyal to the business paying their fees not the candidate. Beware of recruiters wanting to be your friend... too good to be true. Not don't get me wrong there are a lot of nice people out there .. but the legitimate ones do not have time to talk about "you" if it is not directly related to search they have in hand. How lame am I getting.... I guess all I can do is laugh and have a vodka cranberry... CHEERS
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
DAY 62 - CANDY ON MY MIND
OK... I still have the candy company on my mind. My gut is telling me that it could be the right fit. I had a conversation with the executive recruiter and told her that I had concerns about the community. I did not think there was much of a Jewish population there for us. The recruiter ended up hooking me up with a great guy located there who gave me the lay of the land of the Jews.... It actually sounds like there is a lot of promise. I am changing my mind ... I think I need to check it out again. Maybe it is the Promise Land???
NEW PLANS
Our daughter is off of school next week for Passover. So we are going to recreate the Exodus and go to PA and see if this is our kind of town. My vision was that next week the family would steal off to Vegas or Florida for a vacation. And then I would start my new great position in Michigan. Now it looks like the vacation is going to be Pennsylvania... yee Ha!!!
OPPORTUNITIES OPPORTUNITIES
I am definitely in the right profession as the phone is ringing off the hook with Talent Acquisition opportunities. It is hard to know if I should cut off the calls and just wait or if I should continue to pursue everything. I feel a little sleezy to be honest. But I know as they come at me, many just evaporate. The recruiters all want me to keep them up to date and they all act as if they are my friends - even though I know they are not. It is a weird place to be in. Don't get me wrong but this is getting comical. I am getting confused with who is who. It is hard to be the wanted woman.... at least today I feel this way. Yesterday, you had to scrap me off the floor from depression. I think I may be bi-polar.
REALIZATION
I need to follow my gut instincts and involve the family in the decision. Sometimes the blinders are on and they can see the truth. If they are not happy - either will I be. Realization 2 - I should continue to date until someone makes me an honest woman or in non symbolic terms - their employee.
NEW PLANS
Our daughter is off of school next week for Passover. So we are going to recreate the Exodus and go to PA and see if this is our kind of town. My vision was that next week the family would steal off to Vegas or Florida for a vacation. And then I would start my new great position in Michigan. Now it looks like the vacation is going to be Pennsylvania... yee Ha!!!
OPPORTUNITIES OPPORTUNITIES
I am definitely in the right profession as the phone is ringing off the hook with Talent Acquisition opportunities. It is hard to know if I should cut off the calls and just wait or if I should continue to pursue everything. I feel a little sleezy to be honest. But I know as they come at me, many just evaporate. The recruiters all want me to keep them up to date and they all act as if they are my friends - even though I know they are not. It is a weird place to be in. Don't get me wrong but this is getting comical. I am getting confused with who is who. It is hard to be the wanted woman.... at least today I feel this way. Yesterday, you had to scrap me off the floor from depression. I think I may be bi-polar.
REALIZATION
I need to follow my gut instincts and involve the family in the decision. Sometimes the blinders are on and they can see the truth. If they are not happy - either will I be. Realization 2 - I should continue to date until someone makes me an honest woman or in non symbolic terms - their employee.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Day 61 - MONDAY BLUES
I am starting to see that Monday's are not the best day for me. Here is the third Monday that I am having a hard time getting moving. I have the best intentions about my productivity but sleep seems to win out. It is just so hard to spring up and tackle another week. This tends to only stick around on Monday's if my pattern stays true.
I have been a girl that has followed my gut instincts and therefore decisions have been relatively simple for me. I usually make them and then move on... figuring that if it was not totally the right conclusion, I can nip and tweak a bit later.
I am finding that Michigan opportunities seem to be drying up a bit. I start out really optimistic and the interviews go well but the offers never go the distance. It is almost like fate is telling me to move. Now all hope is not gone but my pretty little package of offers coming in and me choosing is turning out to be a fantasy.. thus the reason why motivation is low on Monday. Plus I feel like on ass thinking this is all going to work out according to my plan. See I am kind of a control freak and I don't like when I can't determine the outcome. As I am writing this blog... I think I am sounding a little cuckoo... But this is what this blog is for correct? I am exploring my feelings and this journey.
CANDYLAND
I really liked the candy company and apparently they did too. However,the location did not seem like it would work for my family. I wish I could relocate this opportunity to Michigan because the people that I could potentially work with are fantastic. So goes it .. sucky prospects here and sucky locations there.
REALIZATION
Even though I am so lucky to have any activity what so ever, this process is tough on me. My core is being challenged as I have to really weigh the pros and cons and make tough decisions. The timing is not working out as I hope so I need to rely on blind faith that I am doing the right thing. Realization Two - This blog is therapeutic so I need to be honest about the good days and bad.
I have been a girl that has followed my gut instincts and therefore decisions have been relatively simple for me. I usually make them and then move on... figuring that if it was not totally the right conclusion, I can nip and tweak a bit later.
I am finding that Michigan opportunities seem to be drying up a bit. I start out really optimistic and the interviews go well but the offers never go the distance. It is almost like fate is telling me to move. Now all hope is not gone but my pretty little package of offers coming in and me choosing is turning out to be a fantasy.. thus the reason why motivation is low on Monday. Plus I feel like on ass thinking this is all going to work out according to my plan. See I am kind of a control freak and I don't like when I can't determine the outcome. As I am writing this blog... I think I am sounding a little cuckoo... But this is what this blog is for correct? I am exploring my feelings and this journey.
CANDYLAND
I really liked the candy company and apparently they did too. However,the location did not seem like it would work for my family. I wish I could relocate this opportunity to Michigan because the people that I could potentially work with are fantastic. So goes it .. sucky prospects here and sucky locations there.
REALIZATION
Even though I am so lucky to have any activity what so ever, this process is tough on me. My core is being challenged as I have to really weigh the pros and cons and make tough decisions. The timing is not working out as I hope so I need to rely on blind faith that I am doing the right thing. Realization Two - This blog is therapeutic so I need to be honest about the good days and bad.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Day 60 - GPS HELL
Everyone who knows me can tell you that I do have one major flaw and that is directions, geography and knowing where I am going. Therefore, with the invention of GPS in the car - it has been a miracle for me to actually make it to places on time using the least amount of miles to get there.
As I am interviewing for these roles locally my GPS is starting to frighten me. I follow it with absolutely no push back. But to get me there fast - it is taking me thru the scariest areas. I am going down back streets that have "CAR JACK ME STAMPED ON MY LICENSE PLATE." At first I disregarded this pattern on my first interview but this is like the fourth time where I am getting to my destination through areas that look like Juarez, Mexico. Terrifying....
NEW HABIT
I remember when I was little wondering why older people never noticed things on themselves. Like a shirt not buttoned properly, a miscellaneous hair coming out their chin etc.. It bothered me because all one had to do is look in the mirror. Now I am noticing that I have developed this habit. For instance today, I went about 3 hours with mustard on my face and then I took a run only to notice my running pants were on backwards. The slide pockets were awkwardly on my tush. What the hell... This sucks especially cause I am in the midst of interviewing and I am scared of random food in my teeth, overshot lipstick bleeding off my lip or something else completely gross. I think it is an evil trick the higher being does on us to humble us down to reality. As I am writing this blog, I feel a popcorn kernel shell on my lip... aaahhhh..
LIMBO
I am back in that space of waiting and hoping someone will give me an offer. I am starting to freak. I talk to recruiters and get phone interviews but I need to land a job. I should not be complaining but I am kind of getting tired of my constant spinning habitrail wheel (hamster image) to no where. On a positive note, the weather is awesome and was out and about today loving it. HAVE A GOOD WEEKEND.
REALIZATION
Having a geographic disability puts me at risk with completely depending on my GPS. It does get me there each and every time - but safe routes needs to be built into the offering - hmmm .. maybe I am onto something. You can choose, fastest route, shortest route or safest route. Realization 2 - Getting older is an experience that knocks all sense of dignity out of you. It is time to invest in a good magnifying mirror with a light, tweezers and a portable tooth brush... fun and games.
As I am interviewing for these roles locally my GPS is starting to frighten me. I follow it with absolutely no push back. But to get me there fast - it is taking me thru the scariest areas. I am going down back streets that have "CAR JACK ME STAMPED ON MY LICENSE PLATE." At first I disregarded this pattern on my first interview but this is like the fourth time where I am getting to my destination through areas that look like Juarez, Mexico. Terrifying....
NEW HABIT
I remember when I was little wondering why older people never noticed things on themselves. Like a shirt not buttoned properly, a miscellaneous hair coming out their chin etc.. It bothered me because all one had to do is look in the mirror. Now I am noticing that I have developed this habit. For instance today, I went about 3 hours with mustard on my face and then I took a run only to notice my running pants were on backwards. The slide pockets were awkwardly on my tush. What the hell... This sucks especially cause I am in the midst of interviewing and I am scared of random food in my teeth, overshot lipstick bleeding off my lip or something else completely gross. I think it is an evil trick the higher being does on us to humble us down to reality. As I am writing this blog, I feel a popcorn kernel shell on my lip... aaahhhh..
LIMBO
I am back in that space of waiting and hoping someone will give me an offer. I am starting to freak. I talk to recruiters and get phone interviews but I need to land a job. I should not be complaining but I am kind of getting tired of my constant spinning habitrail wheel (hamster image) to no where. On a positive note, the weather is awesome and was out and about today loving it. HAVE A GOOD WEEKEND.
REALIZATION
Having a geographic disability puts me at risk with completely depending on my GPS. It does get me there each and every time - but safe routes needs to be built into the offering - hmmm .. maybe I am onto something. You can choose, fastest route, shortest route or safest route. Realization 2 - Getting older is an experience that knocks all sense of dignity out of you. It is time to invest in a good magnifying mirror with a light, tweezers and a portable tooth brush... fun and games.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
DAY 59 - STUPID TIME
Yesterday I had an off site interview to discuss a Talent Acquisition position for a local Fortune 500 company. I was pretty excited because I had heard very good things about this organization. I did my usual research, looked at their website etc.. I came to the conclusion it was a very decentralized company with alot of small operations. I made an assumption that this company would have very basic talent development processes and practices.
I met with the hiring manager and he wanted to go through my resume and learn about me and what I had done in detail. I started from the beginning which started like 15years ago. He began to ask me super detailed questions about these events that to be honest were very foggy... I mean it was 15 years ago. OK, my memory held out alright but I was starting to feel like going through my resume would in fact take a decade.
He was very nice but I felt like we were not quite connecting. I felt my answers sounded dumb and very basic. He then began probing me on talent acquisition which is a topic I know well. His focus was top leadership and pipeline building. He kept on trying to prove that I had not hired top level employees. I just was not sure what he was getting at. I mean it was like a bad blind date except I think he was into me. So I am answering the questions and clearly not as sophisticated or intellectual as him and I am feeling like an idiot. I am trying to get out of this with some dignity and actually I was starving so I would not have minded leaving either. Here I felt I was bombing and he kept on smiling like we were on the same page.
He then started to describe the talent philosophy at the company. Now I am a person who I think is strategic but I could not follow or understand his concepts. I tried and I tried but had no idea what he was talking about. It was the first time I really was stumped. I felt like a total idiot!!!
We came to the end of the interview and I gave him an out. I said that it was apparent that my experiences and previous company's were not as advanced as this organization. I wished him luck with building his organization and blah blah blah. He then said, he had to interview 5 more people and he wanted me to keep in touch with him about my status over the next week. He kept on stressing to let him know any employment move I made... like he was actually interested in me... I thought he was just trying to be polite but he kept on emphasizing this fact... weird....
I walked away from this interview feeling like I went to Vo-Tech. I felt horrible about myself and my intellectual capacity. Yet I was so confused as I think he liked me for the company.... nananana (twilight zone song)
REALIZATION
Maybe this guy just in fact does not make any sense and I should not take it personal. It will be interesting to see how this plays out. Realization 2 - I am sick of interviewing and telling my story --- it is so boring already - I hope I am off the market soon it is wearing me down. I never want to talk about me again!!! or at least to the next interview...
I met with the hiring manager and he wanted to go through my resume and learn about me and what I had done in detail. I started from the beginning which started like 15years ago. He began to ask me super detailed questions about these events that to be honest were very foggy... I mean it was 15 years ago. OK, my memory held out alright but I was starting to feel like going through my resume would in fact take a decade.
He was very nice but I felt like we were not quite connecting. I felt my answers sounded dumb and very basic. He then began probing me on talent acquisition which is a topic I know well. His focus was top leadership and pipeline building. He kept on trying to prove that I had not hired top level employees. I just was not sure what he was getting at. I mean it was like a bad blind date except I think he was into me. So I am answering the questions and clearly not as sophisticated or intellectual as him and I am feeling like an idiot. I am trying to get out of this with some dignity and actually I was starving so I would not have minded leaving either. Here I felt I was bombing and he kept on smiling like we were on the same page.
He then started to describe the talent philosophy at the company. Now I am a person who I think is strategic but I could not follow or understand his concepts. I tried and I tried but had no idea what he was talking about. It was the first time I really was stumped. I felt like a total idiot!!!
We came to the end of the interview and I gave him an out. I said that it was apparent that my experiences and previous company's were not as advanced as this organization. I wished him luck with building his organization and blah blah blah. He then said, he had to interview 5 more people and he wanted me to keep in touch with him about my status over the next week. He kept on stressing to let him know any employment move I made... like he was actually interested in me... I thought he was just trying to be polite but he kept on emphasizing this fact... weird....
I walked away from this interview feeling like I went to Vo-Tech. I felt horrible about myself and my intellectual capacity. Yet I was so confused as I think he liked me for the company.... nananana (twilight zone song)
REALIZATION
Maybe this guy just in fact does not make any sense and I should not take it personal. It will be interesting to see how this plays out. Realization 2 - I am sick of interviewing and telling my story --- it is so boring already - I hope I am off the market soon it is wearing me down. I never want to talk about me again!!! or at least to the next interview...
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
DAY 58 - DOES MY BUTT LOOK FAT?
TUESDAY SWEEP
I had a full day of interviews with the chocolate company. I enjoyed meeting everyone and am more intrigued with the opportunity in front of me. The only issue I have - besides uprooting my family (if they even offer); losing a ton of money on the house and having to fly commuter type planes if I want to go anywhere to get out of the state - oh right back to my only issue. My only issue is that there is candy everywhere. Not sample sizes but full blown candy from chocolate, peanut butter, licorice - you name it they have it. I am frightened as I have a hard time turning down candy. My approach over the last year has been keeping it out of the house, office (when I had one) and general 5 mile radius. I am kind of the cold turkey candy girl.
I figure you get sick of it after awhile, but I notice everyone is eating the candy too. The receptionist is filling up the bowls. I ask the interview team and there are varying answers like it is no big deal. I feel like I am an alcoholic about to work in a bar. I really need to figure this one out.
All I can say is that this company rocks and as hard as I tried not to like it - I could not. I think I would enjoy working here - I am so torn and confused. Now I am just obsessing if they like me or not as I learned two other people are also interviewing for the position. I am glad I found this piece of news after the fact.
Realization Iam sure if the universe wants me to have this job - I will be able to figure out the candy challenge. I may gain a few pounds in the process - but I will get it together by working out at their convenient gym on campus - This guy thought of everything!!!
I had a full day of interviews with the chocolate company. I enjoyed meeting everyone and am more intrigued with the opportunity in front of me. The only issue I have - besides uprooting my family (if they even offer); losing a ton of money on the house and having to fly commuter type planes if I want to go anywhere to get out of the state - oh right back to my only issue. My only issue is that there is candy everywhere. Not sample sizes but full blown candy from chocolate, peanut butter, licorice - you name it they have it. I am frightened as I have a hard time turning down candy. My approach over the last year has been keeping it out of the house, office (when I had one) and general 5 mile radius. I am kind of the cold turkey candy girl.
I figure you get sick of it after awhile, but I notice everyone is eating the candy too. The receptionist is filling up the bowls. I ask the interview team and there are varying answers like it is no big deal. I feel like I am an alcoholic about to work in a bar. I really need to figure this one out.
All I can say is that this company rocks and as hard as I tried not to like it - I could not. I think I would enjoy working here - I am so torn and confused. Now I am just obsessing if they like me or not as I learned two other people are also interviewing for the position. I am glad I found this piece of news after the fact.
Realization Iam sure if the universe wants me to have this job - I will be able to figure out the candy challenge. I may gain a few pounds in the process - but I will get it together by working out at their convenient gym on campus - This guy thought of everything!!!
DAY 56 & 57 - IN CANDY LAND - YOUR MOVE
LEARNING ABOUT CHOCOLATE
I decided to fly in a day early before my interview to check out the town and learn more about the company culture. This town in owned by a certain candy company and I felt while I had the opportunity I should also enjoy myself and take a mini Americana vacation.
I tried to envision what it would be like to move my family to a new town. It seemed rather cute and everyone had their teeth - excellent sign. I went to the museum and learned about the company's founder. I found myself captivated by this story. Usually I am not a museum type of gal- I rather opt for shopping - which I did as well. Moving back to the museum though, it was hard to believe that the founder of this company had the foresight to be a pioneer in areas of innovation, marketing, environmental and social responsibilities. He basically built this town as a city planner would thinking about infrastructure and support systems for those who lived in this town. It made me feel like a total loser. How does a guy with no education, from a poor family and no technology able to make these vast contributions. Here I am with all the advantages of good education, creative environment and constant media now interviewing to work for a company that an apprentice candy maker made happen in the worst of times. I quickly finished the museum and realized a stop to the "Coach" outlet would dismiss any of my bad feeling about myself. I am so shallow.
As I was driving around on the brown paved streets called Chocolate Avenue etc.. I started getting paranoid. What happens if this is a conspiracy or a chocolate cult. Maybe the air infused chocolate hypnotic messaging in the air and no one left this town. What happens if it was the FIRM? I mean everyone is associated with this company in one way or another... what happens if I was being brainwashed. Further more, would I eat chocolate all day as candy was readily available everywhere. I started freaking out a bit...
THE BAR
I went down to a bar/restaurant in the hotel to grab a bite. I kind of don't like eating in my room - it grosses me out. I have to say it was definitely an interesting scene observing convention people after hours. There is a sea of middle aged balding guys and a small slathering of women trying to hang with the baldees.
I am sitting eating my chicken watching everyone progressively get drunk. It starts with the business talk and recapping the days events. Then the guys move into sports and the manly behavior of "high fives" on everything. Next stage is moving in on the prey - that would be any non balding male. I feel sex in the air a bunch of remorseful hook-ups about to happen. I better get out of her before I fall victim to some off hand comment about chicken... yikes
REALIZATION
Maybe the sugar is going to my head. This town has reason to be proud of their foundation. Realization 2 - what happens in a convention center stays in a convention center.
I decided to fly in a day early before my interview to check out the town and learn more about the company culture. This town in owned by a certain candy company and I felt while I had the opportunity I should also enjoy myself and take a mini Americana vacation.
I tried to envision what it would be like to move my family to a new town. It seemed rather cute and everyone had their teeth - excellent sign. I went to the museum and learned about the company's founder. I found myself captivated by this story. Usually I am not a museum type of gal- I rather opt for shopping - which I did as well. Moving back to the museum though, it was hard to believe that the founder of this company had the foresight to be a pioneer in areas of innovation, marketing, environmental and social responsibilities. He basically built this town as a city planner would thinking about infrastructure and support systems for those who lived in this town. It made me feel like a total loser. How does a guy with no education, from a poor family and no technology able to make these vast contributions. Here I am with all the advantages of good education, creative environment and constant media now interviewing to work for a company that an apprentice candy maker made happen in the worst of times. I quickly finished the museum and realized a stop to the "Coach" outlet would dismiss any of my bad feeling about myself. I am so shallow.
As I was driving around on the brown paved streets called Chocolate Avenue etc.. I started getting paranoid. What happens if this is a conspiracy or a chocolate cult. Maybe the air infused chocolate hypnotic messaging in the air and no one left this town. What happens if it was the FIRM? I mean everyone is associated with this company in one way or another... what happens if I was being brainwashed. Further more, would I eat chocolate all day as candy was readily available everywhere. I started freaking out a bit...
THE BAR
I went down to a bar/restaurant in the hotel to grab a bite. I kind of don't like eating in my room - it grosses me out. I have to say it was definitely an interesting scene observing convention people after hours. There is a sea of middle aged balding guys and a small slathering of women trying to hang with the baldees.
I am sitting eating my chicken watching everyone progressively get drunk. It starts with the business talk and recapping the days events. Then the guys move into sports and the manly behavior of "high fives" on everything. Next stage is moving in on the prey - that would be any non balding male. I feel sex in the air a bunch of remorseful hook-ups about to happen. I better get out of her before I fall victim to some off hand comment about chicken... yikes
REALIZATION
Maybe the sugar is going to my head. This town has reason to be proud of their foundation. Realization 2 - what happens in a convention center stays in a convention center.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Day 55 - FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Well it is a typical Friday and I have decided to cut my job search short today. I am playing the role of kool aid mom and housekeeper. So amongst the mayhem, I receive a call from a (313) area code. I thought is was the Detroit Science Center processing our new member application. They have called to verify a few things and thought this was just another call. Boy, was I wrong. This was a call from a VP, Human Resources of a very large company.
I tried to gain my composure as my old pug "Babyface" was barking in the background and the other phone was ringing off the hook. It was total chaos. Why is it that I can go an entire day and no one calls and there is not a noise and then the time where I need silence, my whole world comes unglued.
Babyface, who I have mentioned in other blog postings, is a very sweet dog but has realized that he has the power. He has gained this I do not take any crap attitude and does what he feels. To get him to stop barking is an act of g-d. I thought of strangling him but did not think that would sound good to my potential employer. Instead, I made a joke - how he is old and rules the household. I quickly ran upstairs into my office. But then, my cell phone starts with the call waiting - it was a really unimpressive scene. I was shocked that he just did not hang up on me.
The VP, Human Resources started asking me some experience questions and I was really struggling because I was totally faklempted with the noise, the first impression and my general state of mind. He asked me about the job descriptions - and honestly I had not read it. Can you say - total nightmare. Luckily I gained composure and got it together. After all that drama, he still wanted to meet with me. Miracles do happen.. hallelujah.
MY DOG
I came downstairs to scold my dog - but honestly, he is so cute. He has that smashed pug face and is so soft. He is still barking non stop and I have no control over him but he is my bad puppy.
REALIZATION
When you are in the job hunt, it is probably wise not to pick up the phone to unknown numbers unless you are in your quiet space. That is an embarrassing lesson to learn. Realization 2 - you can't teach an old dog and new trick. I need to learn how to adapt to his ongoing barking. Have a great weekend.
I tried to gain my composure as my old pug "Babyface" was barking in the background and the other phone was ringing off the hook. It was total chaos. Why is it that I can go an entire day and no one calls and there is not a noise and then the time where I need silence, my whole world comes unglued.
Babyface, who I have mentioned in other blog postings, is a very sweet dog but has realized that he has the power. He has gained this I do not take any crap attitude and does what he feels. To get him to stop barking is an act of g-d. I thought of strangling him but did not think that would sound good to my potential employer. Instead, I made a joke - how he is old and rules the household. I quickly ran upstairs into my office. But then, my cell phone starts with the call waiting - it was a really unimpressive scene. I was shocked that he just did not hang up on me.
The VP, Human Resources started asking me some experience questions and I was really struggling because I was totally faklempted with the noise, the first impression and my general state of mind. He asked me about the job descriptions - and honestly I had not read it. Can you say - total nightmare. Luckily I gained composure and got it together. After all that drama, he still wanted to meet with me. Miracles do happen.. hallelujah.
MY DOG
I came downstairs to scold my dog - but honestly, he is so cute. He has that smashed pug face and is so soft. He is still barking non stop and I have no control over him but he is my bad puppy.
REALIZATION
When you are in the job hunt, it is probably wise not to pick up the phone to unknown numbers unless you are in your quiet space. That is an embarrassing lesson to learn. Realization 2 - you can't teach an old dog and new trick. I need to learn how to adapt to his ongoing barking. Have a great weekend.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Day 54 - SWAPPING WAR STORIES
I have received a lot of comfort from my unemployed networking friends. It seems we share an intimacy that was never reached when we were working. Perhaps it is because we are beaten down and raw or it is hard to have attitude when you do not possess a job. As I walk around, I can now relate to the homeless man, he is my brother. We have the both status in life except that I am about 6 home payments away from being on the street (just kidding - probably - maybe it is true). It is clear that I no longer hold the stature I thought I did. This is a reality I thought I got used to but it does rattle me to the core sometimes.
I have spoken with many of my friends that are talented people (definite winners) and they have the craziest interviewing stories ever. It is just so hard to believe that companies act the way they do at times. I hear stories of interviews being cancelled last minute. Get this one, my friend was scheduled to fly out for an interview and he went to check his reservation the day before and it had vanished. He calls his recruiter who investigates and comes back to him and says "Oh you do not have everything they are looking for in a candidate and they changed their mind." The company just decided to cancel the trip without informing my friend.
The economy is bad and I think companies believe they can treat candidates like a disposable commodity without any feelings. I say that we candidates come with at least a 48 hour cancellation guarantee. The company should be on the hook and have completed the obligatory interview - it is the code isn't it!!! .
MARKETING
I am kind of a creative gal that gets her outlet through putting together powerful PowerPoint slides. I guess I am an underground Picasso or something (except I am not all pouty and don't overuse the color blue). So I decided to put together a few visuals for my interviews to show my strategic and holistic views on HR. I am about 2 hours into this slide and realize it is a nightmare. There are circles, arrows and colors everywhere - it looks like mad scientist - I think I will regroup and complete this project tomorrow.
REALIZATION
Having a support group and sharing stories helps bring humor and a sense of peace to this unemployed status. Realization 2 - Less is more when you are trying to show your brilliance to potential employers. Too much will be a guaranteed rejection note.
I have spoken with many of my friends that are talented people (definite winners) and they have the craziest interviewing stories ever. It is just so hard to believe that companies act the way they do at times. I hear stories of interviews being cancelled last minute. Get this one, my friend was scheduled to fly out for an interview and he went to check his reservation the day before and it had vanished. He calls his recruiter who investigates and comes back to him and says "Oh you do not have everything they are looking for in a candidate and they changed their mind." The company just decided to cancel the trip without informing my friend.
The economy is bad and I think companies believe they can treat candidates like a disposable commodity without any feelings. I say that we candidates come with at least a 48 hour cancellation guarantee. The company should be on the hook and have completed the obligatory interview - it is the code isn't it!!! .
MARKETING
I am kind of a creative gal that gets her outlet through putting together powerful PowerPoint slides. I guess I am an underground Picasso or something (except I am not all pouty and don't overuse the color blue). So I decided to put together a few visuals for my interviews to show my strategic and holistic views on HR. I am about 2 hours into this slide and realize it is a nightmare. There are circles, arrows and colors everywhere - it looks like mad scientist - I think I will regroup and complete this project tomorrow.
REALIZATION
Having a support group and sharing stories helps bring humor and a sense of peace to this unemployed status. Realization 2 - Less is more when you are trying to show your brilliance to potential employers. Too much will be a guaranteed rejection note.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
DAY 53 - MYSTERY COMPANY
I had an interview today with an external recruiter for a Director, Global Talent Acquisition of a mystery Fortune 500 Company. I am curious by nature, so I found myself being fixated on guessing who the company was and not on the interview. It is really annoying to interview for a blind company - I mean you could go for a few hours trying to impress and then are informed the company that manufactures uninspiring product like COFFINS or VACUUM CLEANERS. Luckily, I passed and she shared the company's name and it is a pretty good one. I won't spill the beans yet as there is actually someone in this role currently.
RUNNING ERRANDS
I am finding a new behavior trend of mine emerging - which is running meaningless and unnecessary errands to fill my day. I am a list maker so I put my to do agenda together every day. I find myself getting dressed to run to the shoe repair, return an unwanted item I bought on another errand, and the seamstress. The scariest thing of all is that I am actually enjoying these trips. The lady at the store now recognizes me and we chat, the seamstress asks about the job search... I am developing a whole new social circle and it is alright. However, in the spirit of work, I do try to apply lean principles to get all my useless errands completed most efficiently. Can't wait for tomorrow which includes buying dog food, a belt and mailing out a package.
ZAGAT OF BATHROOMS
As I am on all my errands, I periodically (more frequent than I would like to mention) need to stop to go to the bathroom. It may be in result of the mammoth Diet Cokes I have been drinking. I have developed a rating scale of public bathrooms and actually looking forward to and maneuver my errands to use the nicer ones.
Five toilet paper rating to Lord and Taylor, Nordstroms and Macy's. Two toilet paper roles to Target and Champps (bathroom is freezing - always a draft). Today I found myself in a situation where I was in a small indoor strip mall and needed to go. I weighed my options and chose Panerra Bread. I ran into the only stall open which was "handicapable" and soon became horrified. There was a big gap where the door and the stall wall are to be connected and you can totally see through it. Not a partial glance but full on frontal. I felt so vulnerable as it was a race between time of would I stop going first or would someone walk in and get a view. Really freaked me out... that was my day!!!
REALIZATION
When interviewing sometimes you have to go on the mystery ride or play the game because the end may be worth it. Trying to play charades with the recruiter is not a good idea. Realization Two - Be careful to check out bathroom stall construction before proceeding with a natural task that you are unable to quickly turn off. That was the longest 20 seconds of my life... yikes
RUNNING ERRANDS
I am finding a new behavior trend of mine emerging - which is running meaningless and unnecessary errands to fill my day. I am a list maker so I put my to do agenda together every day. I find myself getting dressed to run to the shoe repair, return an unwanted item I bought on another errand, and the seamstress. The scariest thing of all is that I am actually enjoying these trips. The lady at the store now recognizes me and we chat, the seamstress asks about the job search... I am developing a whole new social circle and it is alright. However, in the spirit of work, I do try to apply lean principles to get all my useless errands completed most efficiently. Can't wait for tomorrow which includes buying dog food, a belt and mailing out a package.
ZAGAT OF BATHROOMS
As I am on all my errands, I periodically (more frequent than I would like to mention) need to stop to go to the bathroom. It may be in result of the mammoth Diet Cokes I have been drinking. I have developed a rating scale of public bathrooms and actually looking forward to and maneuver my errands to use the nicer ones.
Five toilet paper rating to Lord and Taylor, Nordstroms and Macy's. Two toilet paper roles to Target and Champps (bathroom is freezing - always a draft). Today I found myself in a situation where I was in a small indoor strip mall and needed to go. I weighed my options and chose Panerra Bread. I ran into the only stall open which was "handicapable" and soon became horrified. There was a big gap where the door and the stall wall are to be connected and you can totally see through it. Not a partial glance but full on frontal. I felt so vulnerable as it was a race between time of would I stop going first or would someone walk in and get a view. Really freaked me out... that was my day!!!
REALIZATION
When interviewing sometimes you have to go on the mystery ride or play the game because the end may be worth it. Trying to play charades with the recruiter is not a good idea. Realization Two - Be careful to check out bathroom stall construction before proceeding with a natural task that you are unable to quickly turn off. That was the longest 20 seconds of my life... yikes
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Day 51 & 52 - TIMING IS EVERYTHING
CENTER RING - THE JUGGLING ACT
So I am in a weird space where I am trying to juggle potential opportunities in which I have not received a solid offer yet. I am trying to project manage all these employers so that I can ideally have three offers to choose from. That sounds great in theory but I am not sure the reality really pans out like you dream.
Then I think... am I jinxing myself since I don't really have the offers but the promise of an offer. So I really should not be talking about it but I am trying to move up potential interviews and slow down potential offers to get everything lined up. I am basically living in Fantasy Land!!! Maybe I should jump on my unicorn and fly over the rainbow.
I feel like I am so close and yet so far. Don't get me wrong, I am not complaining just not sure what I should do next. Should I continue to listen to opportunities and interview? Should I stall and see what happens? Or should I do what I have been which is winging it? I kind of am a girl that always thinks "lean." This means to keep my mandatory efforts going but get rid of actions that will lead to nothing. This is really an exercise of much to do about nothing.
Boy will I be embarrassed if none of these offers come in like I thought... moving on.
MY HEAD
I have been feeling kind of yucky the last few days and really did not know why. Wouldn't you know that I am coming down with a head cold. I am starting to panic because I tend to go through this whole weird thing prior to actually getting the cold. With my calculations, this cold will hit right at the time that I have to get on a plane for my next interview. My body goes through a series of weird symptoms that no one I am sure experiences. First I feel off (such as the Saturday interview); then I start getting congested (no big deal) then I get a scratchy throat and indigestion (which occurs in the middle of the night and keeps me up). Then the head cold hits and I can't stay awake or think. Therefore, being in bed is the best place for me to be not in an interview or on a plane - yikes - I am sure I am going to knock this one out of the park!!!
REALIZATION
I guess it is best for me to go with the flow and keep the opportunities coming. Right now I am managing nothing - the employers are in charge not me. Realization 2 - Let's hope that my serious mixture of cold medicine, neddy pot and tea nips the cold in the bud. Or I will have a very embarrassing interview to blog about in a week.
So I am in a weird space where I am trying to juggle potential opportunities in which I have not received a solid offer yet. I am trying to project manage all these employers so that I can ideally have three offers to choose from. That sounds great in theory but I am not sure the reality really pans out like you dream.
Then I think... am I jinxing myself since I don't really have the offers but the promise of an offer. So I really should not be talking about it but I am trying to move up potential interviews and slow down potential offers to get everything lined up. I am basically living in Fantasy Land!!! Maybe I should jump on my unicorn and fly over the rainbow.
I feel like I am so close and yet so far. Don't get me wrong, I am not complaining just not sure what I should do next. Should I continue to listen to opportunities and interview? Should I stall and see what happens? Or should I do what I have been which is winging it? I kind of am a girl that always thinks "lean." This means to keep my mandatory efforts going but get rid of actions that will lead to nothing. This is really an exercise of much to do about nothing.
Boy will I be embarrassed if none of these offers come in like I thought... moving on.
MY HEAD
I have been feeling kind of yucky the last few days and really did not know why. Wouldn't you know that I am coming down with a head cold. I am starting to panic because I tend to go through this whole weird thing prior to actually getting the cold. With my calculations, this cold will hit right at the time that I have to get on a plane for my next interview. My body goes through a series of weird symptoms that no one I am sure experiences. First I feel off (such as the Saturday interview); then I start getting congested (no big deal) then I get a scratchy throat and indigestion (which occurs in the middle of the night and keeps me up). Then the head cold hits and I can't stay awake or think. Therefore, being in bed is the best place for me to be not in an interview or on a plane - yikes - I am sure I am going to knock this one out of the park!!!
REALIZATION
I guess it is best for me to go with the flow and keep the opportunities coming. Right now I am managing nothing - the employers are in charge not me. Realization 2 - Let's hope that my serious mixture of cold medicine, neddy pot and tea nips the cold in the bud. Or I will have a very embarrassing interview to blog about in a week.
Day 50 - IT'S A ROLLER COASTER BABY
Last week was a difficult time. It is interesting when you think you are in a good place and then BAM... your emotions go skyrocketing down. I really thought I was having a mental breakdown. I am not sure if the rejection from the San Antonio company did it - or my false sense that everything was going to be fine. Anyways, I really was having a hard time recovering.
I was really nervous about my emotional state as I had a phone interview on Saturday. I just was not feeling confident but I could not reschedule the meeting. The opportunity sounded great and the interviewer was really nice. But I felt I was completely bombing. I felt like we could never get to that satisfying place. I answered the questions but it felt flat. Kind of like a diet coke with no fizz. You want to almost halt the call and say - You are a good person and I am a good person - we just are not connecting. It really is an unsettling feeling. These are the times that you appreciate being married and it made me go hug my husband and ask him never to divorce me!!! All of sudden you appreciate the dry sense of humor and the dirty underwear that falls next to the hamper not in it...
I went to lunch with my friends and they cheered me up. But it is hard to admit that I am so emotionally fragile. Weird... cause I am kind of a tough nails type of gal.
Well good news on this entire front. I actually did not blow the interview and I am going in for a face to face. All that drama for no reason. I think I am getting my one two back also.
REALIZATION
It is natural to feel down as this is a process. It is also ok to lean on your friends and admit moments of weakness. Also, I do really appreciate "my people" otherwise "my inner circle" that keeps me on my path to success.
I was really nervous about my emotional state as I had a phone interview on Saturday. I just was not feeling confident but I could not reschedule the meeting. The opportunity sounded great and the interviewer was really nice. But I felt I was completely bombing. I felt like we could never get to that satisfying place. I answered the questions but it felt flat. Kind of like a diet coke with no fizz. You want to almost halt the call and say - You are a good person and I am a good person - we just are not connecting. It really is an unsettling feeling. These are the times that you appreciate being married and it made me go hug my husband and ask him never to divorce me!!! All of sudden you appreciate the dry sense of humor and the dirty underwear that falls next to the hamper not in it...
I went to lunch with my friends and they cheered me up. But it is hard to admit that I am so emotionally fragile. Weird... cause I am kind of a tough nails type of gal.
Well good news on this entire front. I actually did not blow the interview and I am going in for a face to face. All that drama for no reason. I think I am getting my one two back also.
REALIZATION
It is natural to feel down as this is a process. It is also ok to lean on your friends and admit moments of weakness. Also, I do really appreciate "my people" otherwise "my inner circle" that keeps me on my path to success.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Day 49 - A DEEPAK CHOPRA DAY
I woke up feeling a little off this morning and not knowing why. I thought I was well on my way to feeling good about where I was in life and having grappled with this unemployment situation.
I decided to start frantically looking once again for leads on positions. I also inquired about the San Antonio position that I had received previous good feedback on and was kind of psyched to go out for an interview. I heard today that the company is more interested in another candidate. Although I am fine with it, as my family was not totally thrilled to move to San Antonio, I was bummed. Was I upset that I had got myself all stoked with the possibility of this role or was it that I had received positive affirmation from the interview? Either way, being told that I was not the number one candidate was a major blow to me. Now any logical person would say, "who cares or it was meant to be" and I know they are correct but it is a rejection and that is tough.
I have been reading a lot of self help books to evolve myself to higher good. I truly want to be a better person and rise above all this minutiae. However, I find myself getting sucked into it and feeling sorry for myself. My first inclination was to find chocolate and eat my problems away, but that would only create another issue for me. I am trying to achieve Life Time Member Status at Weight Watchers - week 3 of 6.
I decided to go outside and run. It was a cold and sunny day and I felt this was exactly the remedy I needed to cure my blues. Sun and exercise always seems to be a natural boost for me. I also thought listening to my self help tape of Deepak Chopra would provide me the clarity I needed to "LET IT GO!"
So I started on my run and about 30 minutes into it - I realized that I did not have a clue what Deepak was saying. I had purchased this download for about $20 and have heard great things about him. This has been my fourth attempt to be enlightened by him. He is a medical doctor by trade and his concepts are so so deep and physiological that I get lost. I feel guilty not understanding and little embarrassed too that I don't quite have the intellectual capacity for his concepts. Finally, I threw on some disco tunes and High School Musical songs and finished my run. I have to admit that I did feel better about the whole situation.
REALIZATION
When you are looking for a position, there is going to be a lot of rejection. This is a fact and we as a job seeker I need to toughen up. If I felt that I was prepared for the interview and did the best and adjust with other feedback than so be it. Realization 2 - Sometimes listening to shallow upbeat music is the absolute remedy for feeling down. Deepak does not always save the day.
I decided to start frantically looking once again for leads on positions. I also inquired about the San Antonio position that I had received previous good feedback on and was kind of psyched to go out for an interview. I heard today that the company is more interested in another candidate. Although I am fine with it, as my family was not totally thrilled to move to San Antonio, I was bummed. Was I upset that I had got myself all stoked with the possibility of this role or was it that I had received positive affirmation from the interview? Either way, being told that I was not the number one candidate was a major blow to me. Now any logical person would say, "who cares or it was meant to be" and I know they are correct but it is a rejection and that is tough.
I have been reading a lot of self help books to evolve myself to higher good. I truly want to be a better person and rise above all this minutiae. However, I find myself getting sucked into it and feeling sorry for myself. My first inclination was to find chocolate and eat my problems away, but that would only create another issue for me. I am trying to achieve Life Time Member Status at Weight Watchers - week 3 of 6.
I decided to go outside and run. It was a cold and sunny day and I felt this was exactly the remedy I needed to cure my blues. Sun and exercise always seems to be a natural boost for me. I also thought listening to my self help tape of Deepak Chopra would provide me the clarity I needed to "LET IT GO!"
So I started on my run and about 30 minutes into it - I realized that I did not have a clue what Deepak was saying. I had purchased this download for about $20 and have heard great things about him. This has been my fourth attempt to be enlightened by him. He is a medical doctor by trade and his concepts are so so deep and physiological that I get lost. I feel guilty not understanding and little embarrassed too that I don't quite have the intellectual capacity for his concepts. Finally, I threw on some disco tunes and High School Musical songs and finished my run. I have to admit that I did feel better about the whole situation.
REALIZATION
When you are looking for a position, there is going to be a lot of rejection. This is a fact and we as a job seeker I need to toughen up. If I felt that I was prepared for the interview and did the best and adjust with other feedback than so be it. Realization 2 - Sometimes listening to shallow upbeat music is the absolute remedy for feeling down. Deepak does not always save the day.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
DAY 48 - DOING BUSINESS ON THE CAN
It was a pretty uneventful day today leading up to my job support group meeting. However I am noticing an alarming trend that I think is quite disturbing. This is the second time that I have been in a public bathroom and someone was conducting business on the toilet. It is horrifying... I did it once when I was working at home with someone I know very well and I was mortified that I did it. I put the phone on mute but still --- high on the tacky scale.
Ms. Toilet was seriously conducting business. She was discussing putting together an advertising campaign and getting funding approval. In the midst of the conversation, toilets were flushing and I am sure there was a serious echo/tunnel effect going on through the phone. I don't know how the person on the other end not hearing her tinkle!! I was really embarrassed for her but decided to head up to my meeting.
I was sitting in the conference room talking with some of my fellow unemployed and wouldn't you know Ms. Bathroom walked in the room. She works at the outplacement group. OMG - this gal is providing guidance to job seekers. She seemed completely unfazed with the whole bathroom incident. She saw me during the washing hands phase and acted as this was how she multi tasked. WOW
JOB SEARCH
In our meeting, we are supposed to keep track of the amount of hours we worked on our search and we are to track our activities like networking, sending out letters etc. The first few weeks I took this exercise seriously but now I find myself kind of winging or fudging my numbers. I am really getting bored with this whole process. The team asked what happens with the numbers and I think we were all in fear that these numbers are being used for some official statistical study. Luckily the outplacement group is only using it for our benefit only. Phew -- I would hate for this to be used for other unfortunate souls to use.
REALIZATION
The bathroom and work do not go together. Doing your business and doing business are two different things. Realization 2 - I think the most successful job seeker is one who does the actual work and does not fib in the group settings about their productivity - shame on me - shame on me!!!
Ms. Toilet was seriously conducting business. She was discussing putting together an advertising campaign and getting funding approval. In the midst of the conversation, toilets were flushing and I am sure there was a serious echo/tunnel effect going on through the phone. I don't know how the person on the other end not hearing her tinkle!! I was really embarrassed for her but decided to head up to my meeting.
I was sitting in the conference room talking with some of my fellow unemployed and wouldn't you know Ms. Bathroom walked in the room. She works at the outplacement group. OMG - this gal is providing guidance to job seekers. She seemed completely unfazed with the whole bathroom incident. She saw me during the washing hands phase and acted as this was how she multi tasked. WOW
JOB SEARCH
In our meeting, we are supposed to keep track of the amount of hours we worked on our search and we are to track our activities like networking, sending out letters etc. The first few weeks I took this exercise seriously but now I find myself kind of winging or fudging my numbers. I am really getting bored with this whole process. The team asked what happens with the numbers and I think we were all in fear that these numbers are being used for some official statistical study. Luckily the outplacement group is only using it for our benefit only. Phew -- I would hate for this to be used for other unfortunate souls to use.
REALIZATION
The bathroom and work do not go together. Doing your business and doing business are two different things. Realization 2 - I think the most successful job seeker is one who does the actual work and does not fib in the group settings about their productivity - shame on me - shame on me!!!
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Day 47 - DISCONNECTING
GOING OUR OWN WAY
I am starting to notice that as each week goes by, my informal group of others unemployed are talking less. Even when we do speak, the fire, the passion, the interest in one another is beginning to fade. I guess we are accepting our new reality and adjusting to this life. So I am finding that I am moving to my new support system, my general suburbia friends are replacing my work friends.
I am doing many more lunches, getting my nails done and finding myself talk about house and mom things. I know what is happening at my daughter's school, I am catching up on the friends gossip and slipping farther and farther away from work type information. As a matter of fact, work talk is not exciting like it used to be... weird
I find my days filled with errands, cleaning and made up priorities. I am starting to viewed as a regular at the gym with the other stay at home moms. It is so strange!!! Am a channeling the soccer mom persona. I have not felt a desire to get a mini van so I guess I am OK right now.
JOB SEARCH
I am really getting very lazy about my search. Everyday I hear about an opportunity and if it sounds decent I pursue it. I am living in this false reality of "let them come to me and seek me out." I am not sure if I am getting cocky or just passive.
THE BACHELOR
I have always been a fan of reality TV (I won't lie) but I really have no life when I am upset with who Jake picked as his fiancee. It is clear that she was able to "rock his world" as he eluded to with his other gal Tenley. He mentioned to her that their chemistry was a little off. That was code for "you are a nice girl and are not exciting in the bedroom." Now I do not know Jake or the gals but it was hard to watch the love montage of pictures with him and Vienna. To up the cheese factor the song was "On the Wings of Love." The song should have been "Tik Tok."
REALIZATION
I think we all search for a role to play in life. I believe cause I am between two worlds that I am reverting back to my roots prior to work. I suppose it makes me safe until I land a position. I guess that is OK - it helps to define my purpose. Realization Two - I need to shut off the TV and read a book. It is better for the soul.
I am starting to notice that as each week goes by, my informal group of others unemployed are talking less. Even when we do speak, the fire, the passion, the interest in one another is beginning to fade. I guess we are accepting our new reality and adjusting to this life. So I am finding that I am moving to my new support system, my general suburbia friends are replacing my work friends.
I am doing many more lunches, getting my nails done and finding myself talk about house and mom things. I know what is happening at my daughter's school, I am catching up on the friends gossip and slipping farther and farther away from work type information. As a matter of fact, work talk is not exciting like it used to be... weird
I find my days filled with errands, cleaning and made up priorities. I am starting to viewed as a regular at the gym with the other stay at home moms. It is so strange!!! Am a channeling the soccer mom persona. I have not felt a desire to get a mini van so I guess I am OK right now.
JOB SEARCH
I am really getting very lazy about my search. Everyday I hear about an opportunity and if it sounds decent I pursue it. I am living in this false reality of "let them come to me and seek me out." I am not sure if I am getting cocky or just passive.
THE BACHELOR
I have always been a fan of reality TV (I won't lie) but I really have no life when I am upset with who Jake picked as his fiancee. It is clear that she was able to "rock his world" as he eluded to with his other gal Tenley. He mentioned to her that their chemistry was a little off. That was code for "you are a nice girl and are not exciting in the bedroom." Now I do not know Jake or the gals but it was hard to watch the love montage of pictures with him and Vienna. To up the cheese factor the song was "On the Wings of Love." The song should have been "Tik Tok."
REALIZATION
I think we all search for a role to play in life. I believe cause I am between two worlds that I am reverting back to my roots prior to work. I suppose it makes me safe until I land a position. I guess that is OK - it helps to define my purpose. Realization Two - I need to shut off the TV and read a book. It is better for the soul.
Monday, March 1, 2010
DAY 46 - MEET GEORGE JETSON
Today was a first for me, I had a Skype/Video interview. I was first introduced to this concept when watching the Jetsons. I remember their video phones and the uncomfortable situations when George Jetson's boss, Mr. Cosmo Spacely would call and bust George for goofing off.
I think the technology is cool but it does take away the freedom to communicate with potential employers in your pj's having not brushed my teeth or hair. Well I am not that gross, well maybe sometimes (hee hee).
Luckily, some of my friends tutored me on Skype so when the recruiter had suggested the video conference, I could act like it was something I did all the time. I set up my account this weekend to make sure I was a pro this morning as I really had no idea how it worked.
When you are video interviewing there are alot of things to take into consideration. First of all hair and makeup. I did a trial run this weekend and realized that curly hair kind of looks crazy on Skype. I also am pale by nature so a little extra blush was needed. The last thing I had to do was figure out how far to push back the screen so that the interviewer was not looking up my nose.
Once I had myself together I had to make sure that I did not have anything in the background that could be distracting. I looked at my image and noticed that two cute teddy bears were in the picture. Not really the professional image I was trying to achieve.
THE INTERVIEW
So I received the call from the recruiter and apparently she did not subscribe to my preparation for a successful interview. She had her screen tilted in a way that made her face look distorted and there was a bunch of crap - like papers and books that made her not look so professional. It was hard to focus as I fixated on her piles in the back of the room. In addition, Skype continued to freeze up and thus a frozen image of our face was stuck on the site. It was always something awkward like your mouth wide open and one eye closed. We lost connection several times - never saw that with Oprah - but all and all the interview went well. I finished the discussion feeling like I had tackled a new piece of technology. Also, as a Talent Acquisition leader this is a method that I think is really effective for phone screens.
REALIZATION
There is an art to Skype and the proper preparation really helps you seal the deal. Making sure that you looking into the camera, wearing a flattering color and trying not to get distracted by the lagging video is a newly acquired talent but the wave of the future. REALIZATION 2 - I love Skype - what a cool way to talk to friends around the world. I can't wait to talk to my friend Pauline in the UK.
I think the technology is cool but it does take away the freedom to communicate with potential employers in your pj's having not brushed my teeth or hair. Well I am not that gross, well maybe sometimes (hee hee).
Luckily, some of my friends tutored me on Skype so when the recruiter had suggested the video conference, I could act like it was something I did all the time. I set up my account this weekend to make sure I was a pro this morning as I really had no idea how it worked.
When you are video interviewing there are alot of things to take into consideration. First of all hair and makeup. I did a trial run this weekend and realized that curly hair kind of looks crazy on Skype. I also am pale by nature so a little extra blush was needed. The last thing I had to do was figure out how far to push back the screen so that the interviewer was not looking up my nose.
Once I had myself together I had to make sure that I did not have anything in the background that could be distracting. I looked at my image and noticed that two cute teddy bears were in the picture. Not really the professional image I was trying to achieve.
THE INTERVIEW
So I received the call from the recruiter and apparently she did not subscribe to my preparation for a successful interview. She had her screen tilted in a way that made her face look distorted and there was a bunch of crap - like papers and books that made her not look so professional. It was hard to focus as I fixated on her piles in the back of the room. In addition, Skype continued to freeze up and thus a frozen image of our face was stuck on the site. It was always something awkward like your mouth wide open and one eye closed. We lost connection several times - never saw that with Oprah - but all and all the interview went well. I finished the discussion feeling like I had tackled a new piece of technology. Also, as a Talent Acquisition leader this is a method that I think is really effective for phone screens.
REALIZATION
There is an art to Skype and the proper preparation really helps you seal the deal. Making sure that you looking into the camera, wearing a flattering color and trying not to get distracted by the lagging video is a newly acquired talent but the wave of the future. REALIZATION 2 - I love Skype - what a cool way to talk to friends around the world. I can't wait to talk to my friend Pauline in the UK.
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