Interview

And few months ago I had a job interview and after a conversation I had today with someone who I will now call a mentor, I can't say for sure that I got the position.

At my internship when I'm sitting and waiting for my boss to come in or when I'm just sitting around after the day is over, I often come across someone new. Well, at least people I have yet to come across. These meetings are pretty much always random. People usually just want to inquire about what this young lady (me) is doing at this place of business. A convo usually strikes from there.

Today I met Mr. H. Initially it was an awkward meeting. I was sitting in the corner doing my Spanish homework as I sat around a to wait for my boss (who is still not here as I write this..lol) to come in. He walks in to speak to Ms. J and I remain quiet in the corner. He is an older gentleman and probably expected me to speak first--something I would normally do, but I didn't feel like detaching myself from the work I was doing. (BTW, just found out that my boss is coming in this afternoon. I guess I'll miss her today.) As he walks out of the office, he stops just outside of the door frame, turns around and says, "Hello young lady." I poke my head around my cubicle and say, "Hello," in return. Aww sh*t!! I probably should have said something first (this is a black owned establishment.. if that means anything to anyone).

I leave to go to the restroom and when I return he's back in the office on his computer. I now introduce myself and apologize. I apologize for nothing specific, but we both knew why I did, as he goes on to say, "Oh, its not a problem. It's never too late to get acquainted," with a smile. I smile back.

I go to sit in the corner where I was previously sitting, but this time I'm facing him, as I know the usual follow up questions are coming: So, what is it that you do here? I'm a student intern from state. I work for S. Major? Public Health. What do you want to do with that? blerg*#$@!, etc. I'm used to these questions, so they don't bother me.

After his battery of questions, he went on to tell me about how he spoke to SAAB (student org., not the car) on campus, and I don't know how, but we got on the topic of interviews. Other than last week, I have never been on an interview that I didn't already know I was going to get. So as you can imagine, I've never really worried about my interview skills. I mean, I'm able to answer questions and present myself well, but I can't say I've ever done an excellent interview.

Mr. H was going on about good interview skills, so in my efforts to stay as attentive as possible, I listened, nodded and agreed to everything what he was saying. I'd heard this all before, but what I didn't know was that he was going to give me a mini mock interview! He was talking, talking, talking and then asks, "What qualities can you bring to the table?" Then he pauses. You know when old people talk and pause, then continue talking? Well, he didn't continue, so I say, "Ohhh, you want me to answer?" I was sooo not ready for this.

I prefaced the question with an explanation about how I have such a difficult time describing myself and qualities about myself. He thanked me for being honest, then paused again to wait for my answer. Aww, sh*t. I thought that was my cop out to end the conversation. It was not.

He went on to ask me a series of questions along the lines of : What qualities do you have? Tell me about yourself. Describe your strengths and weaknesses. All of which I stumbled on and answered horribly. Each time I floundered, he came back with an answer that he would give. His answers were impeccable! They all flowed so well. No stuttering, no looking around, etc. He represented himself well.

He ended our conversation because he has to leave. I thanked him and told him that I have a lot to think about, and a lot to learn. He told me the next time we meet, I should be prepared for another round of questions. I laugh and say ok, and he leaves.

Upon his departure I realize, Oh shit, That was a horrible interview I gave last week. I thought I had the ish, but upon my post Mr. H interview reflection, I see that I may not have it at all.* And even if I do have it, I probably shouldn't based on that interview.

As I was walk out to the parking lot Mr. H is there. He leaves me with this: "It's all about you. Just remember that all the answers they're looking for are between the crown of you head and the sole of your feet. Just don't let them get stuck in your throat. "

I have a lot to work on and a lot to think about. All thanks to a random conversation with Mr. H.

*I was worried because I didn't get a call back. So I called. Turns out my boss missed me while he was doing call backs. I got the job.