UPDATED - Job Woes and Budget Cuts

I had my meeting with my boss but once again he was vague about my job. He kept asking me what were my thoughts since last time we spoke and I didn't know what to say. I want to stay at my current but he was giving hints out to say that of I had other options, I should keep looking. I mean please!!! Effing tell me if I have a job or not. Jeez!! This is such great timing.

Anyway, I spoke to my co-worker who is our counsel and she said it was the same shpiel he gave to everyone. Unfortunately, I took the wrong way and felt he was forcing me out. So, I sat there thinking what should I do with my life? Was so annoyed and ate lots of chocolate. Ugh to the nth degree.

The long day was torture until around 3:00 when my co-worker had a contact who said there was a position available at another office and are taking resumes right away. Umm...okay. I did have one available so I sent if off and now I have an interview today at 3:00. I don't feel prepared and am scared to death because haven't been on an interview for quite some time.

Anyone know how I should prepare in such short notice? I'm freaking out.

13 years ago

cheryle (Dianthus)

(website)

Veteran

I haven't been following the board much so am not sure of the background. I work for the feds in Canada and we went through a huge reduction exercise over the summer and fall so I think I understand somewhat. I hope it works out well for you.

In terms of prepping for an interview, most interviews are situation based questions. If you have the statement of qualifications, review it and key in on the key competencies they are looking for and prepare to relate a situation that you have been in that demonstrates your ability in the area. There is usually something on time management, customer service, etc. l

Good luck.

missvee

I've done a lot of interviewing over the years, and regardless of the job I look for quiet confidence, answers that are succinct ( never ramble!) and applicants who display a positive attitude. They'll probably ask about teamwork and problem solving, so gather your thoughts as Dianthus suggests, and try to relax. Good luck!

Traci

Go in with the mindset that this is a preliminary meeting about collaborating on a new project. You're there to be sold to as much as you're there to sell yourself. Do a little research on the company so you know why you'd like the job. Calm confidence is perfect.

Angie

Fashion Stylist

(((HUGS)))

Great advice here.

I have nothing wise to add, but know that we are here if you feel down. Chin up beautiful lady! You will impress the pants off people.

Best of luck.

xoxo

citygirldc

Ladies, thank you for all your support. I'm hoping this experience will be a positive one no matter what happens. I need practice anyway and this will give me a push I probably need. I'll post details after the interview.

Anonymous

I just wanted to wish you best of luck. Practice makes perfect.

I would usually think of those qualities that make me unique or any particular talent or experience that I can bring to the table, before interviewing. I also come up with a couple examples, where I feel that either my work performance, skills or experience were vital on completing an assignment. Have you ever received commendations or employee awards? I throw those in also.

One of my mentors always says that if you don't speak highly of your work product, no one else will. You might even have experience out of this job that could be useful, think of older stuff too!

I have taken several promotional interviews, in recent years and I never go shy in promoting myself, it works!

Glory

Good luck in your interview!

Caro in Oz

Great advice here. Good luck.

Diana

I'm of no help in the advice department (as academia is a whole different beast with its own often bizarre rules, etc) but just wanted to wish you good luck!

I'm back and the interview went really well, although I was also supposed to meet with their Counsel but she had left suddenly due to illness.

We had good rapport although I was a bit nervous and spoke a little too fast. I’m kind of glad I met with her first rather than the other way around.

I also met with my "potential" assistant whom I’d be sharing an office with. I supposed the chief wanted to know how we'd react to each other. Luckily we hit it off. I guess that was a good sign.

Anyway, they are looking to fill the position fast and will tell me if I got the job by next week. She did ask for references which I didn’t have in front of me but I got her a list right away when I got back to my office. These are how things happen in my line of work.

I know hope this pans out. Now the waiting begins.

Cross your fingers. Maybe this will turn out to be a Merry Xmas after all.

Fingers crossed for you!! I know all too well about iffy employment prospects. I just emailed my recent golf course job yesterday although they don't reopen until May!

Yey ! I am putting you on my Christmas wish list.

Suz

Good luck!!! Crossing fingers it works out for you.

But wait...there's more.

After work, I was invited to a friends office Xmas party so I ended up leaving early around 5:00. I had a great time until I checked my email around 8:00 and my interviewer had left me a message wanting me to call her back. What???? No No no!! At that point I had a couple of drinks and a bit tipsy. I was quite surprised to hear back from her so soon. That got me sober but flustered at the same time. I emailed her back telling her she could get back to me later in the evening but she emailed me telling me "not to worry" and that she'd get back to me tomorrow at 9:00. I said fine and that "I" would call her back at 9:00. OOPS!!! Okay that's what happens after hours. I hope this won't F me up!! So I guess I'll wait for her call in the morning.

Is that a good sign that she called???? I think it is although I goofed.

ManidipaM

Whew! That is moving fast and striking when the iron's hot. You've really taken the bull by the horns there, no waiting or wallowing or waffling --- good for you! I hope you have positive news by morning --- fingers crossed tight for you.

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