Lately, I've been trying to find ways to make a better living (sons approaching college age = need more $$$!) And we writers know the best kept secret about writing is there's not much money in it. For some strange reason, the general public thinks if you're published, you must be rich AND famous! It really cracks me up when someone introduces me as a "famous author" - ha ha ha!Anyway, as I said, I'm trying to earn more money. I've been on a few job interviews, sent countless query letters, submitted a few pieces, and begged for book gigs. So far it's all gotten me bupkis! And upon further examination, I seem to be sabotaging myself. I'll tell you what I mean...
Here are Things NOT to do when looking for work:
DON'T tell them you'll understand if they don't want to hire you.
DON'T act like you could care less.
DON'T tell them their workplace is cute.
DON'T bring up sore spots about their financial situation.
DON'T compare them to a better workplace.
DON'T assume you aren't right for the job.
DON'T force a smile.
DON'T oversell yourself.
DON'T show them you're smarter than they are, know-it-all.
I was in an anti-full-time teacher funk when I went on that interview. Yes, I actually did a few of those things. How could I be so dumb? People know when you aren't genuinely interested. They also know when you're trying too hard out of desperation. We must be confident but not cocky. Self-assured but not assuming. And humble not humiliating.
I was disappointed I didn't get a job offer, but not surprised. Then a long-term job was handed to me - things worked out. Not getting the book events was actually better for me. And more changes are on the horizon that would make getting a permanent job not the best situation right now. I believe God has a plan for me. After having things work out so many times, and mostly not how I plan, it's easier to accept and leave things to Him.
Prayer brings results, worry brings wrinkles.
AND IN THE NEWS:
Don't forget to stop by and vote at the WRiTE CLUB!
Many folks are Revealing their A to Z Challenge THEMES today - including the Really Real Housewives where we'll be joining in the challenge. You'll never guess our theme!
And if anyone would like to volunteer to read JOLISSA for an honest review, let me know. Thanks!
Anyone else notice how things work out for the best in ways least expected?
Hope things are working out for you!
Happy Spring!
An interviewer once asked me if I had my retail dream come true (her exact phrasing, by the way), what would I be doing?
ReplyDeleteI answered, "Giving my two week notice."
Needless to say, I did not get that position.
But you're right—they can absolutely tell when you're not genuinely interested. Good tips!
(And if you need someone to read/review JOLISSA, feel free to email me...)
MJ's comment cracked me up!
ReplyDeleteMaybe you did all those things because you knew it wasn't the right job? As you said, God always has a plan.
Job interviews are so awkward for me. I never know what I should and shouldn't say. I'll keep your tips in mind for the next time I'm searching for a job (which the current boss hopes will be NEVER.)
ReplyDeleteHi Tara - it's the way it goes isn't it - but as you say life has a plan for us ... and I'm in that mode too at the moment. Good luck with the college $$$s .. cheers Hilary
ReplyDeleteGreat points, Tara! I assist people with resume writing and successful interviewing. I'll be sure to store your tips to use to further help people in this regard!
ReplyDeleteYou have to show your best self to interviewers. At least the one people want to hire.
ReplyDeleteI hear ya, lady! I've made a few of those blunders myself on interviews. I've been debating trying my hand at freelance to add some $ to the income line. I too have boys in college and could use the extra cash.
ReplyDeleteI was the worst at interviewing, so I probably did all of these things. I did get hired a couple of times, but the interview process was so stressful I never left my second job until I absolutely had to and didn't need another one.
ReplyDeleteAh Tara, I know exactly what you mean and yup been there done that some myself. I also am looking for work. Interviews have not panned out. I believe they have not panned out because God has something BETTER planned for me. It just takes time. Thank for visiting with me today. Good luck and Happy Writing,
ReplyDeleteJuneta @ Writer's Gambit
I hate job interviews! I'm just far too awkward. Luckily when I was looking for a job I only had to have one and they offered me the position. Glad things worked out for you!
ReplyDeleteHi, Tara,
ReplyDeleteSounds like your putting your faith in the right hands. I totally believe that God has a purpose for us and we just have to keep stumbling along until we find out what it is.
All the best with your endeavors...
It's been ages, I hope all is well....
Good tips, but why not force a smile? I am not sure I agree with that one.
ReplyDeleteIf I've learned anything about job interviews, it's that it definitely doesn't hurt to make them laugh. Show them you're sharp but still fun to talk with; after all, they're going to have to be dealing with your behind for a long time.
ReplyDeleteI've gotten many jobs I was waaaaay underqualified for (against some stiff competition) simply because I made them laugh and started a good back-and-forth dialogue with them. And as one boss later told me, "I'd rather have someone who's sharp on their feet than sharp on paper."
They don't like to hear "cute?" No wonder I messed up so many times.
ReplyDeleteGood tips! I'm glad you ended up with a long-term job. I understand about college being just around the corner. I may have to add another job to my music-teaching to cover college expenses. I'll keep my "cute" comments to myself if I ever have an interview. ;-)
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ReplyDeleteHello dear Tara. These are truly great tips. There are so many fine lines to walk when one is in an interview :)
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