Interview Saga. Part One

An interview is like a first date without a cocktail. You select your best outfit and equipped with your best qualities get ready to play a charade hoping to score the next date with an interviewer in a gray suit.

I have been on both sides of the interviewing table. Qualities that impressed me the most were an outstanding performance and confidence (not to confuse with smugness). CVs of those candidates that seemed unsure of what they wanted to do with their lives in the next two years were sent directly to a shredder.

I realize that it's impossible to know what do you want to do till the rest of your life (and I do not ask such questions) as our constant progress affects our goals and aspirations. If, for instance, only yesterday I wanted to be a supermodel, today I definitely see my future elsewhere. But what I seek in potential candidates is the ability to succeed and be an individual, not just a member of a class.

I remember when I was trying to make the first steps towards corporate world while finishing college, I was invited to interview for an intern position with a leading financial firm. Back then I was still naive and fresh of the boat (my communistic background could be detected from miles away). My answer to a question - why should we hire you - was WHY NOT? It was one of those moments when you know there is no point of return, yet you do your best to get out.

I did land an internship with the firm.

So, real success is derived from our abilities, our strive, and passion and not from the association with a brand name or qualifications that can be learned in a day or, worse, can be found anywhere.

Years of professional experience is a relevant term. A candidate may be a veteran in his industry but lack the essential skills needed to be a part of my team. I look at the accomplishments, projects, tasks. Several of my colleagues slaved away only for a few years but achieved more than a senior manager during his long career.