Interview # 45: Traffic Cone of EVIL!!

So, on my way to this interview... It was the day after a terrible snow storm, and I was going to be there in five minutes.. when I had to dodge this evil traffic cone! It was in the middle of the road, I assume due to the snow storm. I was so distracted about dodging the cone, that I didn't realize I had just passed a red light. I immediately stopped after I was in the clear.. I hope I didn't get a ticket! I took pictures just in case.

The traffic light is shortly after, and on a 40 MPH road!
I got this interview through networking, so this is my first networking interview. As one of the ladies I work with, is friends with a woman who owns a printing company. They're always looking for Graphic Designers.

On the interview, I was actually disappointed in how boring the office looked.. I was surprised that they were graphic designers, since it's just an ugly looking inside, and an ugly company logo. But then again, I'm more about the pizazz!

I had to fill out a form, which took some time, and had some really pointed questions towards people being fired. Like "If you were terminated, why?" "If you left due to mutual agreement with your previous employer, why?" which I didn't understand what that meant, did it mean they understood you were leaving, or what..Some of them were really strange questions.

I was sat down with my co-worker's friend, and her husband. Her friend is very nice, as she had mentioned. I didn't really get to answer many questions, and it was more the husband, who interviewed me. They both kind of just skimmed through my portfolio, and skipped some categories (as I label sections in my portfolio, such as abstract, and drawings... etc.). But at least they were nice, unlike someone from a Previous Graphic Design Interview.
They did give me tips on what I should do for my next interview, which made it sound like they didn't like me at all. But I felt like he was trying not to laugh, or something of the sort. I think they really hated my work, they understood that I didn't have work experience in Graphic Design.. but I really don't think they took it well.
For a moment, the husband asked me some customer service questions out of the blue. I said that you have to put on a smile, and give your best customer service attitude.
They gave me some tips, and then I was on my way.

Normally, I'm ready to answer a million questions, but because it was different this time, and it was mostly about graphic design, I was put off guard. I feel the interview didn't go too well. But this is also why I don't apply for Graphic Design jobs anymore,  I don't have the experience, so no one wants to try me out in the first place!

Interview # 43: Yak yak yak, why ya talking all the time!?

The title is a reference to the game, Kya: Dark Lineage, which really fits this interview.

As I'm writing this, I already know I didn't get the job, as I asked the lady to send me an email if I got it or not.

 I had applied for a position on a Sunday, and I got an email hours later requesting for an interview. The next day, I got TWO emails in an hour from them, requesting an interview, I was like geez lady, calm down.

 So this is the first time I went on an interview, and forgot my portfolio, with my resume, cover letter.. etc.. I've never forgotten it before! The funny thing is, the last 5 interviews I've been on, the interviewer didn't want to see it, so I was hoping I wouldn't need it. It worked out because she was talking about how people don't like phone calls, and everyone does emails, so I told her I would email my references when I got home. Apparently it was me vs one other person. It was mostly just her talking about the job the whole time.... She went on.... and on... and on... and she even mentioned she talks so much. It was hard to get two words in, because I felt like I was being rude, and interrupting. I just told her that I am on the shy side, but open up and she said that she expects that from everyone, because they don't know each other yet. Then I said three adjectives I would describe myself in. This was the first time, the interviewer didn't write those down.. they always write down my list of three adjectives. She was really nice, I just didn't get to say much.... She asked me salary range, I said around 14, an hour, but it's negotiable. She told me they have vacation days, 401k. She said in a week or two, but I wouldn't start until March because they're updating their systems to Sage, which I later found out was a math program. I am terrible at math, so probably a good thing I didn't get it.

 She told me she wanted to hire a guy, because one of her girls is leaving due to pregnancy, so she wants a guy because they can't get pregnant. I told her I promise I won't get pregnant. Which is rather sexist. Because she basically only hired girls before, which is sexist, and now she only wants a guy, which is also sexist! I don't mind that I didn't get the job because, I felt like the job would have been boring. But the thing is, she did most of the talking, so I don't know what I could have done differently, like other interviews gave me time to comment... but she really didn't.

 Lesson Learned: Sometimes, the interviewer talks too much!

Interview #39: I want you to RELAX!

My 39th interview was for a law firm company, that apparently has been around since 1937. I had played phone tag with them for a few days. Lately I have been calling companies back, and they never get back to me, so I was surprised when they called me back! On my way to the interview, I hit some traffic,the GPS and the directions online, had two different ways to go, and two different destination times. When I got to the building, I was worried I went to the wrong place. But eventually found out that I was at the right place, and I may have actually been there two years ago! I think a staffing agency is also there.
 When I got to the building, I was there maybe two minutes late, and they asked if I found the place okay. I told them what happened. After I got into the interview room, the interviewer told me to relax, and that her and the other lady interviewing me, just wanted to know me.

This was, by far, one of my better interviews.. which is strange, as I never heard anything back! This was back in October, and I was just lazy and didn't finish it (Until now, since I'm about to go on my 41st interview in a few days, and I need to catch up!)
I had never been on an interview, for 40 minutes, this was a new record! I really thought something was going to come from it, but I was aware that I was their first interview, so I must have seemed cool at first, but was blown out of the park by others.
The position was a file clerk, who would also do some reception.

I was interviewed by two ladies, who were both very nice, and down to earth. We discussed various topics, such as what I did at my current job. Which was funny, as one of them said they liked the store, and the other didn't go there, because it was messy, and they just couldn't deal with the mess.
Later I realized, it was probably bad to complain about my current job, as it will look bad.. even though this was a first hand experience by the interviewer.
The one lady kept asking me to relax, and that they just wanted to know me. Which really made me feel better, but at the same time, I'm still shy and uncomfortable around new people!
I showed them some print outs of awards I have from my current company, such as an employee of the month certificate, and getting a "Smile" award for being pleasant on register.. they wanted to hold onto the papers, but I told them I needed them. Mainly because my printer sucks, and it took a year to print out... so making a new one would be obnoxious, but it's not like I got the job anyway, so it would have been a waste of my time, and my printer ink, that stuff is expensive!
Another mistake I made, was saying that I wasn't a people person, that's why I wanted an office job. They told me that I would be a partial receptionist, and still have to deal with people.
But working in retail, and being surrounded by people, and being a receptionist in a law firm, are two very different things,  I would not have had a problem with it!
Next time, I just have to say that I LOVE working with people, and just wanted a clerical environment.
They said they wanted someone who was going to be with the company for a long time. They asked about my Graphic Design background, and wanted to know if I was going to pursue this. In the past, people asked because they liked this skill, but this time (  and for the 37th interview) it was not a skill they needed, they were just concerned I might leave for a graphic design job. I simply told them that I attempted a Graphic Design job, but no one would hire me because I needed experience, so I told them that I wanted to pursue more clerical positions instead. The one lady even made a note about how people want experience, but you can't get experience if no one will hire you.

It was just very interesting how down to earth, and real these ladies were, it was a very pleasant experience.

Lesson Learned: I have to stop complaining about my job to people, I've done this before, they just think I'm going to complain about their company, if I were to work for them.
Which is untrue, retail is just evil!!! I wish they'd understand that at least.

Interview #38: Market your life better witch!

I just wanted a Halloween-y title.

This interview was a pleasant experience, it was for a marketing company, not too far from my current job in retail. They apparently help out solar companies, as well as medical offices. I believe it would be helping out with appointments, when it comes to the medical offices, and trying to get people to switch to environmental friendly lights, for the solar companies.

I was sat down into a room, where there was a big meeting room, that had similar phones/ gadgets to my 36th interview, so while I was waiting, I was reminiscing.

The lady sat down with me, she was more relaxed than most interviewers in the past, (Except the last one, that guy was relaxed too).
The lady asked me to fill out a form, so I was filling it out quickly, because I didn't want to use up all of her time trying to make artistic letters. I fill out the paper, and the lady tells me about the company.  So this is the third time, this year, that I didn't get asked what I knew about the company. All three places were smaller, so maybe that's why... but I'm so used to writing down three facts about a company, that when they automatically tell me about the company, it's like I remembered those things for nothing! But hey, at least I don't have to remember those things afterwards. There are two sides of the company, they either help try to sell customers energy efficient lighting, which they will eventually need, as everyone is using LED lights now. The other side, is, I believe appointment setting for various doctor's offices... so it's two sides of a coin, and she specified that some people might like/do better with one, or the other.
The lady asked me about my Graphic Design degree, I told her that I had gone to school for GD, but there were no jobs for it. She asked me if I wanted to pursue a job in Graphic Design, and I said that if anything, I'd do something on the side. She asked if I wanted to go back to school, I said yes, but a long time from now, once I'm financially stable.
She asked me how my friends would describe me, in three words. I'm glad for my 36th interview, as they asked me to describe myself with three adjectives, so now I'm always prepared! I just told her that I was out-going, creative, and Goal-Oriented.
She asked me about how I won the donation drive at my job, this was because I would always ask for donations, while on register. I explained later, that I didn't get as many donations, once I started working on the floor.. but I still get many, when I have to ring, such as yesterday, I got 25! Which now that I'm thinking about it, was 15, but I did get 28 the other day. I explained to her, that I'm a bit competitive, and I like to get donations.
As she was talking about the positions available, I told her about how I was taking two calls at work, and how I felt so alive being in an office.
She asked me how I deal with customers, I told her that I deal with them, as you would with anyone else, and you smile!

Overall, it was a nice interview. But I did forget to show her these two print outs, that I have of winning a "Smile award", at my job, and getting employee of the month.

She told me that tomorrow was the last day she's having for interviews, so if I got the job, I'll know tomorrow. I told her to let me know if I got it or not, as I like to know where I am at. I told her that I promise, that I don't bite!

Lesson: I chickened out, and did not ask her to give me a task to demonstrate my abilities, or show her the papers. So I think I need to learn how to work on that!

Interview # 37: Cars, Cars, Cars!

So I had applied for literally 20 jobs on Sunday, and I got a call from this company for a customer service position that I had applied for. I set up an interview, and they wanted to see me on Thursday, I told them that was perfect because I'm off on Thursdays.

I didn't actually understand what the company does, and I still don't 100% get it, but they appear to contact car dealerships, to help market their cars, as well as show customers prices for cars.

 My phone was telling me it was going to take 28 minutes to get there, even though I've been on other interviews in the area, where it was only 20-22 minutes.. so I thought that was weird. I left 40 minutes early, and got there in about 20 minutes.. so I had plenty of time to do whatever. When I got there, it was this huge building, and I started to worry I was going to get lost. As when I went on an interview in the past with a similar building complex, I did get lost.. and I didn't know where I was! The inside was very fancy, and I noticed that my college had an office there! Which is super weird since it's closing down completely in a year! Using my amazing map skills, I figured out where the office was located. (Which did take me time because the office I was going to said GL next to it, I figured it meant "Ground level", you can't trick me for too long! )

Now the funny thing is, I was practicing all these lines I was going to say, but the guy never asked them! I always write down three facts about the company, and just like my last interview, the hiring manager was the one telling me about the company. (So I wrote all that down for nothing!), but I did mention that it was to my understanding that they have an office in L.A... so after that, he figured I reviewed the website (I didn't really understand what the company was about, but I digress).
He did most of the talking, I explained that I had went to school for Graphic Design, and that it wasn't going anywhere so I went into retail. Which in reality, I do want a graphic design job, but I still want out of retail, and because I don't have experience, none of the GD jobs want me. He explained that the position wasn't a Graphic Design job, where as other companies have liked me for those skills.
He explained to me that the hours are 11-8, with an hour non paid lunch (Meanwhile, I really want normal 9-5 hours, and I don't like having to stay for non paid time.), as well as working two saturdays a month, I hate working saturdays! I'd prefer to work sundays, they're such a bore! He said that as they hire more people, they might take those hours, and eventually I could have 9-5. I told him I was still interested, even though that was a big turn off. He seemed glad, like other people must have turned it down after that.
He asked me how I deal with negative customers, I said I deal with them as I would anyone else. I told him that I'm a very positive person, and I don't really get angry, or sad. He said that it can get very busy, and I told him about one of the supervisors at work, who once said, once you've worked there, you can handle anything! Which is very true. I think I accidentally got arrogant, and said that this job would probably be a piece of cake. But he seemed to understand what I meant.
When I told him that my main goal was to get into a company that values professionalism and growth, and also so I get out of retail, he said he didn't blame me... it sounded like he wasn't a big retail person himself. I said that I much more prefer talking on the phone, than face to face with random people.
I asked him some questions, and he really had lot's to say about them. I'm so used to having questions to ask the hiring manager, that I remember them really easy. I asked him "What needs the most help", What's your favorite thing about the job/company", and "What is it like to work there".
He seemed to like me, and he even said that as well. He was much more laid back, and normal, over other people who were more prim and proper. But I was still very shy, but atleast opened up at certain parts.
He said that I'll know by the end of next week if I get a second interview with the CEO, I explained to him to just let me know, even if I didn't get the position, just to know where I am.

I'm very on and off about this right now. Like the guy is nice, and the people in the office were nice, although all men.. I get along with women better, we just click. Like it'll be nice to get out of retail, but I don't like the weird hours, but at the same time, the weird hours can allow me to look for something else while I'm there... there were some interesting companies in that building, and there are plenty of interesting companies near there as well.
I'll just have to wait and see, but I'll still be applying for other jobs as well.

Lesson: Sometimes you have to go the path less traveled, get out of your comfort zone, and apply for a job that's a bit different than what you'd normally go for.

Interview #36: We're a no DRAMA-MAMA!

So my 36th interview, took place in the beginning of the new year, 2017! It is for a company that sells medical equipment to veterinarians. I had applied for an Office Assistant position.

This was actually my first interview that I obtained by applying on Zip Recruiter, as I hadn't really used the site before. (I've never gotten an interview using jobr, yet though.)

I was first contacted, and spoke with a woman over the phone. Funny enough, her name was Elizabeth, the same name as someone I work with at my current job. It took me a while to get in contact with her, as the number she left... was an automated voice message saying to choose an extension... she didn't leave an extension! First, I decided to choose the Customer Service line, which went to voicemail.. but it had Elizabeth's voice as the message. Then, I tried the department for "other" calls, and it was Elizabeth's voice again.. I finally chose another line and Elizabeth picked up... which was weird that all of their departments would be the same person! When I talked to her, she asked me a few questions, such as, what my graphic design experience was, and if I was bilingual. (I'm not, but I told her that I knew a few words). I scheduled an interview for Wednesday, (It was Monday).

The company is very close to where I went for my 32nd interview, so I pretty much knew how to get there.. in fact, it was only a road or two down! I still somehow managed to get lost, but in my defense... I was using a GPS the first time, and this time I used my phone's GPS, which actually wanted me to take a longer route, so I did half the route of what I remembered from the first time, and the other half of using the map feature on the phone. I actually did better getting to this area the first time, over the second! Ironically.

I have to say, the company has great, convenient parking! There's 7 parking spaces right in front of the building, and the doors to the offices are like 5 feet away. It totally beats retail parking! (On busy days, you may have to park all the way in Narnia, and this has happened to me plenty of times, and has even made me late before!!!)

When I got to the building, I was 10 minutes early. I tried entering the building, by pushing the door that was locked, and not the one next to it, that was open. I met with Elizabeth, and she had me stay in a room for about 10 minutes. I originally thought that I was being interviewed by her, but she told me I had to wait for the manager. I studied some lines to say while I waited, and eventually the manager came in, who was a girl.. and I was so happy because I'm more comfortable around women than I am with men (Which may be ironic since the only times I've ever been on second interviews, were with male managers). Elizabeth stayed in the room (In the corner), to accompany the manager, but she did not say, or do much.
I greeted the manager, and she started off by telling me about the company. Which was surprising because they always ask ME, what I know about the company... and in fact I had a list of things I was going to tell her, what I know about the company.
Some of the following questions may be out of order....
Her first question for me, was, why did I go to school for Graphic Design, but get a job in retail? I told her about my situation, where I got an associates in Graphic Design, and afterwards the school wouldn't let me advance until I started paying them. Which is how I worked in a mail room, an office and currently retail. I told her, that I got the job in retail to get some kind of money, and I ended up staying with them to help them out, and get my drivers license, as well as a car. She asked me if I remembered any of the Graphic Design skills from school, I told her that of course I knew... as I'm always on my computer doing something. (I do occasionally use my graphic design program, but not as much as I used to, as working retail is very draining for me... I never have motivation to do anything anymore, and because of the weirds hours, I don't have a set routine to do productive things..) She asked If I had any work, I showed her a demo page that I printed up.. and told her about my portfolio, which I haven't had much time to update. (The irony is, if I had a normal 9-5 job, I know I'd have time and motivation to fix these things.). The thing that bothered me was, I applied for an Office Assistant. So I wasn't exactly prepared for them to ask for my work, in fact, I have no idea where my physical portfolio is! I just have my online one currently. But if I had applied for a Graphic Design job, I would have been prepared.. they sucker punched me a bit, so that's also why I wasn't prepared for that.
She asked me if I was bilingual, I said I knew about 20 words in Spanish, and 20 words in Japanese, which her and Elizabeth seemed to find funny. I told her that I was always willing to learn.. and I explained a time where it came in handy. As an example, I told her of the time when I was on register and I asked this lady for her phone number for return purposes. The woman didn't know what I was saying, so I said "telephone" in Spanish, she understood that and told me her number...so I was able to utilize the few words I did know in the real world.
The Manager asked me what I do/did in the positions I've held in the present and the past... I told her, in the office I did things such as filing, faxing, scanning documents and I also put together cover letters and looked for jobs for people, as the company I worked for was a bit of a job agency for the poor.
She asked about my current position, I told her that I was full time home department, but I also help out on register, and anywhere else that they need me. She asked how I felt about answering phones, I told her that I love to answer phones, and I'm always the first to grab the phone at my job.
She asked me to describe myself in 3 adjectives.. now this idiot (Meaning me) does not remember what an adjective is, so I was freaked out because I'm like.. what if I say something that isn't an adjective? My problem is that I didn't want to learn in school, but once I was an adult, that's when I wanted to learn all of these things...
I told her that I was Kind, Energetic, Calm.. and she said that Calm and energetic canceled each other out.. so I chose hardworking.. because honestly, this is what it's all about...I'm just trying to let them know that I want a job.. seriously, some of these questions interviewers ask are insanely unrealistic!
I was told about the job position, the job title would be Office Assistant, but it would be a bit of everything. Office work, Customer Service, Shipping, Inventory, Graphic Design.. etc..
I told her that's just like my job now, I help them where they need help. A jack of all trades.
She told me a bit about the job, she said that they don't like drama and how they are a small company and they aren't looking for drama. I didn't care for this part, as I felt the need to defend myself for something that I am not... I told her that I'm calm and easygoing. I had a tendency to repeat the same phrases a million times in this interview, it wasn't on purpose.. but I was like "what do I say"?!
I was asked about a time where I dealt with a problem customer, I told them of a time last year.. where there was this rude lady.. by accident, I got sassy when I explained this story.. but I was only sassy when playing the customer...I told them of a time where this lady had a coupon that didn't work, and she was rude about it, so I got the supervisor over.. and how her friend magically appeared and she was nice to the friend, but not to us...I rang her up as anyone would, and she was on her way... I didn't go into detail, but there was so much more to that story that I left out.....
She asked how I was with stress, this was one of those cases where I had to lie through my teeth. I told her that I am great with stress, and that I work harder when stressed. This is lie, if I get stressed, I freak out and have mini panic attacks.. in which I am 100% less productive. But seriously, whose going to tell the truth with some of these questions?! If someone wants a job, they're going to make stuff up to get the job!!!
She told me more about the job, and it's people.

When she asked me if I had an questions for her, I asked the following.

* What is your favorite thing about the company?
She answered that work is work for a reason, we're not going to have fun doing spreadsheets.. but her favorite part is the people.
Which I thought was a dumb answer, because you can have fun working! The people part was good though.

* What area could use help? She pretty much said every department could use help... and she mentioned something about eventually hiring a part timer, I don't know if it was when I asked this question, or if she mentioned the part tier at a different time.

* I asked her what a typical day was like, she went in about how everyone has to work together and everyone chips in.. and there's not time for complaining, or something like that. Something she said, made me go in defense mode and I mentioned that I always get along with everyone, even if I don't like them. Such as the guy at work, who complains about everything. He complains about the job, the people, the managers, everything under the sun. I told her that I treat him with respect, and she asked if he liked me, I said yes.. and that the only person he doesn't like is the one manager, because she pushes his buttons.
She made a comment about how there's no room for complaining in the company.. etc..
She seemed to be really sensitive about drama, which was annoying because I felt like I had to defend myself.. it's just like, I get it.. you had a bad apple, but not everyone is like that, just note it once, and move on.
She asked me if I complain about people, I said no, and then she asked If I ever complain and I said no. Obviously this isn't true, but I don't complain often, and when I do.. it's with a friend.

At the end of the interview, she said that she liked that I was punctual.. so I suppose someone else was late.

I told her that I wanted to let her know of one last thing, that if she hired me, she would not be disappointed.. that I am a hardworking, detail oriented individual that always takes the extra mile.

I told her it was a pleasure to meet her.. and as I was leaving, I pushed the locked door, like I did when I was coming in.

At the end of the interview, I felt a bit discouraged. I did like the atmosphere and the people, but the constant bickering about "Drama", "Complaining", and having to lie about complaining or stress, really just turned me off. If I don't get the job, I honestly wouldn't mind that much, because they really didn't pitch their company that well. It's like sure, no one wants drama.. but to just constantly complain about complaining... is...well ANNOYING!!

Lesson Learned: My lesson that I learned consists of two parts.
First: Was that I needed to create a cheat sheet, I need to take a sheet and list three things to ask an employer, along with other things like good answers to questions and the like.
Second: Was, I have no choice but to try and work on my graphic design portfolio, I may not have the time or the motivation to do it.. but it's clear thats a big reason why companies want me.. I can't get a job with weird, outdated or lame artwork.. or even lack of content.

Interview #35: Ordering Made Easy!

The title may or may not be a hint of the companies name..

Back in April, I went on an interview for a place that helps market restaurants. I actually applied for this position without knowing it, because I hadn't applied for anything for a week or two and I got a call from them, so I Was like sure!! I apparently applied for a Customer Service position, which I'm trying not to apply for, because I don't want to deal with customers anymore, but I'm glad I did apply for this place because it was one of my better experiences. The place was near another place I went on an interview, but the GPS sent me a different way. It made me a little nervous because I didn't know where it was taking me, but it ended up being fine and I actually got there 7 minutes early.

I got into the building, and I immediately saw two hot guys working next to each other on desks. One of them asked who I was, they got the interview lady, that I  had spoken with the prior week on the phone. I was sat down in a room, I had to fill out some paperwork and the lady said two other people would be in shortly. I finished the paper work and reread some questions and answers that I could talk to them about and then three of them came in, so it was perfect timing!

They asked me questions about the company, and asked me about many questions that I answered either well, or ok. I usually bounced back if I paused for a minute..not knowing what to say, I got back in with something colorful. They asked me about my current job in a store, and what I do there. I told them that I am on the floor, but asked to ring when needed, they told me that at this place, they're adding more people and that they have many doing more than one task. I said to them that I do that already at my current job, so it would be no problem for me, and that I like being a Jack of all Trades. An interesting thing is, they asked me about graphic design programs, as they saw I have the knowledge, I told them what programs I knew and I feel like I did poor on explaining my skills with them. They asked about a customer experience and how I handled it, I told them about this time in August when I had this nasty customer that had an invalid coupon, I told them that I handled it very calmly and did what was needed to be done. I left the part out where I didn't ask for a phone number, and didn't say have a nice day, but like no one wants a lady that nasty to come back! There was one part where I pulled words out of my butt, because what was I supposed to do? It was just a question about a customer that I didn't have an answer to. However, there was one question they asked about dealing with rude customers on the phone, I told them that I've never actually dealt with rude customers on the phone for some reason. They asked what my interests were, I went on about how I went to college for Graphic Design, and how I worked in a mail room and an office. I told them that I enjoy creativity, drawing, video games and tv. In which I told them that I was currently watching Daredevil, which is about a blind superhero and they all seemed like surprised at that, like the blind superhero concept. There were parts where I would ease up and just say something like that, which I think was good because it made me more like a person and not a robot who was just answering questions! At one point, my throat was clogged, so I said, sorry there's a frog in my throat, it needs to get out! And they all thought that was funny, so brownie points for making them laugh on purpose! They asked me who my least favorite manager at work was, and how do I deal with them. I said that my least favorite is the store manager, who is just cranky all of the time, I said that I just deal with it and do what I have to do. They asked who my favorite was, and I said my favorite is the one on my references; I told them that shes such a good person who will go out of their way to help people.
When I told my aunt about this, she told me that I have to be cautious about manager questions, so I'm not sure if I should have said I have no problem with managers... or if maybe I shouldn't have said my favorite was on the references.

I asked them what it's like to work there, they said it's a very relaxed environment, everyone's like friends and are friends out of work too. I said that was just like my current job as well. I asked them questions on how long the company has been there, I was surprised because they said 10 years and I was under the assumption that it was 3. I asked what their favorite thing about the job was, this was interesting, because they had very intriguing answers. The one lady told us about this job where she was looking up people's resume's and would find interesting jobs that she didn't know existed, like one girl she reviewed had worked for a company where she translated documents into different languages. I explained her that my friend did something similar once, my friend Karina, she got a job in an office where she translated things into or from Spanish. She had to leave because the owner was hitting on her, and told her he'd buy her a car if she slept with him; of course, I didn't tell them that part. I asked at the end of the interview, if there was a second interview, or what happens, she said that they don't do second interviews, they still have some interviews to go and will let me know next week if I got the job or not.
I realize now I shouldn't have said that, because it sounds kind of cocky, I should have asked them what the next step was.

The one lady set me out, and I told her it was a pleasure to meet her and she asked if I had work today, I said that I am off and I had made it that I'm always off every Thursday so I can make plans if I have to, like hang out with friends or something. She thought that was cool, I told her it was great meeting her.

I think the interview went very well, it was definitely one of the better ones I've been on. The managers were very relaxed and I got to talk about them like people, they weren't robots. I thought it went very well, unfortunately they told me they'd get back to me in a week and I never heard from them again, it's been a month and a half so I figure I was not hired.. which is annoying-ly weird, because I pretty much was everything they were looking for... they probably hired someone with more experience or something. It was strange too, because I got this very strong feeling like I got the job, I never had that feeling before.. and then a couple of days after the interview, that feeling went away.. it was strange. It's as if some strange psychic force was trying to tell me something!

I'm going to try and add them on Linkedin and see what happens, mainly because I want more contacts!

Lesson Learned: I don't really have one, I guess the best thing to do is you learn more about what to say every interview.

Interview 34: Why does this look so familiar?

Okay, so my 34th interview took place later in the day after my 33rd one. My earlier interview was at 10am, while my later one was at 4pm... it was in a similar area to my 32nd interview, so I already knew how to get half way there.
 Unfortunately, the navigation system messed me up at the last second... Usually, the GPS will say when you'll be close to it, when it says 0.05 miles ahead, that means get ready to turn... when it says the location is 0.02 miles away, that means you need to turn at the next turn.. but instead, the GPS said I was 0.04 miles away, and then instantaneously says I have arrived at the address...By the time it said this, I had just passed the turn to make and OF COURSE, I could not turn around because it ended up being a very long road of just forest on both sides. I had to drive 10 minutes out of the way, just so I could turn around and go back. By the time I actually got there, I was 10 minutes late, and originally I was going to be 10 minutes early. The fun doesn't end there either, when I got to the building, it was a big square that housed about 27 different companies. So, I walked around the entire building, just to find out that the place I was supposed to go to, was right by where I had parked my car.....

When I finally got into the office, I talked to the receptionist, and told her that my GPS made a mistake, she told me that it actually happens all the time. I was seated in the waiting room; it was really all one big room. The Receptionist was at this little dainty desk thing in the corner next to the doors, and to the left were some couches, a TV and a Table, but going forward were the offices.
As I waited, I had noticed that many of their decorations were not only bhuddist themed, but also many decorations that I have seen being sold at my store! I figured maybe they go to the store I work at all the time!
I waited around 10 minutes, and I was seated. The guy asked me a few questions, the usual stuff like where do I see myself in 5 years.. Am I good with a team and alone.. etc..
While I was on the interview, I realized that I wouldn't have been a very good fit. The job was for a consultant, and I would have been consulting people or something. I didn't think I got the job, and I didn't mind because I knew it wasn't the right place for me.

Lesson Learned: GPS systems aren't always correct and can screw you up! Make sure to leave at an even earlier time than you would have normally!

Interview 33: Are you a useless Potato?

My 33rd interview happened back in January, a week or two after my 32nd interview. I actually had two interviews that day, one in the morning at 9 am and the other at 4pm. I was contacted by a recruiter who will be referred to as "B", who said I was a likely candidate for a Jewelry company that was hiring. The early interview I went on, was for a staffing agency called Express Employment Professionals. I was late by like 15 minutes, but it wasn't a big deal because I knew I'd be filling stuff out for an our, in which being on time isn't a big deal. I was late that day, because I was sick and woke up with an absolutely terrible sore throat! I was like this is going to be great!!! I got to the building, and I took a seat and I was filling out their forms, half I didn't have to do because I had already completed them online. I waited a while and noticed outside of the window, was actually a corporate building for McDonalds! I thought to write down the information, so I could check them out as well, as I love McDonalds! However, I was not able to really find out how to apply for a job for that building, so it never went anywhere. When I was interviewed by the recruiter T, she was very nice and very bubbly. She asked me a few questions about my skills with Graphic Design Programs and what my weaknesses are.. she had asked how I was with being late, and I said I'm rarely late, but when I am, it's by five minutes. I told her about how I tried out Randstad, and how they were as useful as a potato, in which she bursted out laughing. She told me about this position near me, a photography company that would be hiring people for Data Entry, Graphic Design, Customer Service and I think Warehouse. I said that I liked three out of four positions, she put me up for Data Entry to just choose a selection and then on the interview with the company, I could make a decision.. She wanted me to call every week so they know that I am available... this particular position would start in mid March. So I called every week and half of the time, I actually talked to B and not T. By the time March came around, I spoke to B and she told me that the company had decided to do their own thing and hire their own employees, rather than affiliate with Express. She told me that she would look for something for me in the area.. that was the last I heard from them for a while, I didn't bother calling them because I WASTED A MONTH AND A HAlF thinking this people were going to help me..Weeks later, in May T texted me about a position, and I couldn't answer until two days later, I called them up and apparently she was busy so I left a message and never got an answer back.. So, basically, they are also as useless as a potato!

  Lesson Learned: I've really started to give up on Staffing Agencies, that's why I declined to go on an interview for two other companies.. I've given up on them, I really have! They are useless and I go on more interviews by applying for jobs directly anyways! Plus, staffing agencies get a part of the cut anyways, you'd make more money getting a job directly.

Interview #32: 'Bout to Drop the next Big Beat Yo!

My 32nd interview happened the next Thursday, after my 31st interview. Unlike my 31st interview, this was for a full time position in an office. The company is a DJ company that sells DJ equipment to DJ's, and even has a few physical stores.
When I was getting ready for the interview, I found out that I would have to take the expressway.. Which I really didn't want to, and I learned to just take the service road, which really wasn't that bad either, since it was only about 4-5 lights until I got to my destination.

When I got to the place, I was excited because I was thinking I would have to work in the actual store, just behind the scenes, but it was actually the corporate office! (Which is what I wanted)
When I went inside, I was seated and I had to fill out some paperwork. I had noticed that there was a whole booklet of separate application papers, I figured that they either had many people applying.
When I got in for the interview, it went very well. Even though I hadn't been on many interviews for a while, I answered questions very well and they really liked me. They really grilled me too, they asked all sorts of questions that I've been asked separately.. almost like every interview all at once.
They asked questions like...

"Where do you see yourself in 5 years"

I said, I see myself in a company that values professionalism and advancement.

They asked me what my weakness was, I said math, but if needed I would use a calculator.

He asked me a question about my personality, I said that I am shy, but once I get comfortable with everyone, I open up.

The guy asked many questions and I answered them very well, I could tell I did good because he had this stupid grin on his face.

At one point, he asked about my hobbies, I said I enjoyed playing Video games, watching Japanese Animation, Drawing, Photography.
He told me he was doing a side project where he was making a video game with somebody.

The interview went very well and he introduced me to the entire staff! I shook hands with everybody, and learned their names.

The last on the list was to OK a background check, the lady at the front desk said they just wanted to make sure I wasn't wanted in any states or anything.. I was just worried about my credit score, since mine isn't great due to a crazy amount of student loans.

I really enjoyed that interview, and at 5:00pm I got a strange call that came from the same town..since that was the only interview I went on in that area, It must have been them, right? They said I did not get the job, but they'd keep my resume on file.
I was really disappointed because it seemed like a great job, with lot's of fun people!

A few days passed and I actually got a call back from them, they wanted me in for another interview! What.. huh? Confused??? So either the number that called me wasn't them, or they had a change of heart. (Or maybe I wasn't supposed to get that call?)
The funny part was, at first I wanted the job, but then I thought about it and I didn't really want it anymore because I feel that the product they're selling is not very interesting to me.

They wanted me for an interview the next day.. which annoyed me because I need time to get it together, let the thought sink in. Unfortunately, I had closed at my job, so I didn't go to bed until like ... 2 am and I had to be there at about 10 am.. Easy to say, I didn't get lot's of sleep.
I got there really quick, it took me 20 minutes to get there, which was awesome timing!

I got into the building and the guy immediately recognized me through the glass window, and I was seated very quickly, I found out I was only competing with one other person! this marked the second time I've been on a second interview.
This time I met with the interviewer from before, and another person higher in the ranks.
Because I was tired and because I didn't really want the job, I wasn't on my A game, but I was still good. I answered questions, but maybe not as well. There was one time when they asked what I liked most about my current job, and I said the people. They asked what I liked least about the job, I said that there was too much work and not enough people.. which I regret saying and I should have just said that the annoying thing is there are no employee bathrooms (I've since asked a few co-workers and they agree with this statement)
I think I did okay, not as great as the first time. Conveniently, I had a wardrobe malfunction and had to leave the room in haste as I was leaving and didn't get to say to them, that if they hire me, they will not regret their decision.. but I had to fix my wardrobe malfunction.. but I probably looked ridiculous as I was leaving.....
The place seemed great and it clearly had good people, but I knew it wasn't for me. I have no care for their products (They did say they prefer people that have an interest with DJ supplies, which I didn't.). The other thing was, that I knew I'd never want to leave that place once I got it, I really just want a job I will stay at for a while, not forever. I need a fun little job to last me months to a year or two. I just need a better paying job, one with a normal 9-5 schedule, so I can make some more money and get situated with my life goals, it was definitely one of my best interview experiences and it helped me get familiar with the area, as I had never driven to the town before.
I would have loved to work there, if they sold interesting items or if it was a Video Game company.. Then I'd do everything I can to get the job. Right type of setting, but wrong product....It had a great atmosphere.

Lesson Learned: I've said this one already, but sometimes the job isn't right for you. It could be perfect, but it's not exactly what you need in your life right now, you need something different.

Interview #31: Trust me, I'm not a Doctor!

My 31st interview was actually a week ago! January 21st, 2016. It was for a Doctor's Office, that I had accidentally applied for. See, what had happened was... the previous week from the interview, I decided that I was going to apply for some jobs! But I didn't notice what I was applying to. I was just randomly applying for jobs, without paying attention for what they were for, my only concern was where the job was located. So, I ended up applying for a job that was for a medical receptionist, that also requested working at two different locations. For starters, I'm not a big fan of driving, so going to two different locations that are 30 minutes apart, is not my thing... But also, I am not a fan of Doctor's office's as they give me the heebie geebies!
So, I went on this interview, not wanting the job and not thinking they would even want me.
However, my friend Donna lives 5 minutes away from the interview site, so I figured I would stop by her house afterwards, making the trip there actually worth something. (Since the interview was 40 minutes away from my house).
I got the to the office and I had to fill out paper work for a little while, there were two girls also filling out paper work and I thought "My competition!". I didn't think they would actually want me, so I was a bit honest with certain questions on the sheets.
I was in the waiting room for an hour and a half, and I had noticed that the receptionists were sometimes rude to the patients! I was like, what the fetch?! I work at a store that has some of the nastiest shoppers you could ever imagine and I've never been mean, nasty or rude to them! I'd love to see these receptionist girls in a store! They'd get fired in a heart beat for being rude! But this also got me fired up, thinking if I get this job, I'll be so nice to the patients that they'll love me!

So, an hour and a half later, I am called in and they apologize for making me wait so long (The office manager had to watch an important video that was apparently, an emergency.)
I was interviewed by the office manager, and the manager for their social media accounts.
They tell me that I was exactly what they were looking for, they were not interested in me being a receptionist, but in fact.. they liked me for my Computer knowledge and Graphic Design skills! I was like... say what now!? I was totally shocked! Here I thought I was just one of the 50 people that applied to be a receptionist and thought my fate would be undecided,  and not hired by them.
They wanted me to help them with their facebook account, other social media accounts and even some graphic design!
They asked me a few questions about my skills and background, and I told them that I have a blog and that I have 500 followers on twitter.
They wanted to see my blog and my portfolio, so I gave them my blog link and they told me to send my portfolio link to them via email.. which is weird, because now that I think of it.. I could have told them the link in person.
They wanted me to go on a three hour trial as a receptionist, to see if I like the job or not. I just had to find out when I was free, and I told them I would call them on Friday to see my schedule, when I'm available. They however told me, that the three hour training would be non paid and that if I did take this position, it would be part time. But even though I was looking for Full Time, this was the experience that I really needed!
On Friday, I called them and found out they had already left for the day.... I'm used to people working 9-5, not 8-4.. I called them at 4:30, on my lunch break at work.
I was told by the receptionist to call them on Monday, which would be when the office manager would be back. I called them on Monday 15 times, just to get that dreaded busy tone! At the end of the day, I got an email from the office manager stating she was sorry for not getting back and that she would schedule a meeting soon. I didn't hear anything for two days, and then I got a phone call from another company, about an interview.. so I decided to focus on that company instead, since these guys decided  to drop off the face of the earth! I didn't get that job, but when I got home from interview 32, I found out the head Doctor of the Doctor's Office, added me on LinkedIn! Does that mean they are still interested in me? I have no idea! But I want to wait and see if they will reply to me!

Lesson Learned: Sometimes it's good to apply for jobs you wouldn't want to do, because they may be looking for something that you are skilled in! My old supervisor, when I worked in an office once told me, to apply for places that aren't hiring. This is because, some places are looking for talent, but they just haven't looked for anyone yet! This was basically the same thing, they were looking for someone besides a receptionist, but they weren't going out of their way to find someone!

Interview #30: Free meds for everyone!!

Except for Bob! He doesn't get any! Curse you Bob!!!!!!

So my 30th interview was in November 25th, Thanksgiving week! It was for a Pharmaceutical company (With less than positive reviews on Glassdoor.com, but you didn't hear it from me! *Wink* *Wink**Wink* *Wink**Wink* *Wink**Wink* *Wink**Wink* *Wink**Wink* *Wink**Wink* )

This was actually an interview that I got via Randstad, so I guess they aren't as useless as I had thought! (They'restillprettyuselessbutyoudidn'thearitfrommeagain*Wink* *Wink**Wink*)

Unfortunately, I was 12 minutes late for this interview because I didn't think there would be traffic at 11am. I wasn't sure if they had noticed or not..... ( I left 30 minutes before, and the map said it would take that long.)
Funny enough, the Randstad representative called me while I was on the interview, to ask if I was going to the interview.

When I got to the front desk, I had found out that I was in the wrong building. They were next door (Same company, but for some reason they had two sectors.), I get there and everything seemed fine, I didn't think they noticed I was late because of traffic. I had to wait in the waiting room for like 10 minutes, and eventually they took me.
The interviewer was very nice and down to earth, this was actually the first interview I had where I was more outgoing and friendly. I thought I did a pretty good job, I was more interactive than I used to be in the past! It was clear to me when I asked her "What's it like to work here?", she had this look on her face... It was easy to tell that it was hectic and crazy to work there. Like, I thought maybe it's a good idea not to work there? But the place I work at now, is pretty crazy, I mentioned to her that I work in a crazy environment already.. or did I say busy? Well, something like that. The interview, I thought went well. Maybe to me, it was well because in the past I was more shy and quiet.
I emailed the Randstad representative and asked her if I could send a thank you letter to the company for interviewing me. It took her two days to respond to me, and then she gave me a sob story about how "She's sorry, but she can't give out information like that and that the company decided to choose another candidate". I was like really? It took you two days to respond to me? But other times she responded very quickly? She had some sort of ulterior motive or something.
I was like, whatever, I don't need them anyways! I also thought to look onto the website of the company and apply directly instead, but I couldn't find any ads for it...

Lesson Learned: Make sure to leave much earlier! If it takes 30 minutes to get there, leave an extra 20 minutes, or something.. this way you have extra time to get there, and chances are, they'll take you right away anyways, sometimes they may ask you to fill out forms.

Interview # 29: Well, that was pointless.

So this interview was interesting, and by far the most pointless interview I have ever been on in my life!
I was at work, and I got a call from some lady named Lin. She was telling me she worked for a company called National something..later on I found out the name.
But, I had applied for another job that had the name National in it, so I thought it was them calling me back.  I made the mistake of putting my resume for employers to see on Monster, which I have taken down again. The lady said that they were looking for a Consultant and she asked me what I was interested in doing, I said I was interested in Clerical or Graphic Design, she said I should come on an interview anyways. The place is actually a 40 minute to an hour drive from my house, but she said that they give you local jobs anyways. So despite the fact that I'm a newer driver and I lived far away from the place, I went anyways.
The drive there was annoying and I'm realizing I don't like to drive for a long time, but I kept getting lost because I wouldn't understand the navigation system. The system would tell me to make a left and then when I made a left, it would have to find another route. I was also bad at understanding it too, I wouldn't understand when to turn, because I need it to be very specific for me to really get it.
The previous interview I went on, 28, I had taken the bus in the area so I was more familiar with the surroundings.
When I got there, I got lost because the number for the building was not there, it went from 200, to 1650.. I then found out it was hidden inside of a different numbered building, as it went from 1650, 200 to 80.
When I got in, there were two doors, and I didn't know which one to go in. There was a door and then another door with a glass window and a lady at a desk, I didn't think it was the door with the lady because there was a sign that said the company name in abbreviation and it didn't register with me that was the place! XD
The lady knocked on the window and I went over, she asked if I was there for an interview and I was seated with a clipboard and a sheet.
The sheet said some strange things like "What do you avoid in a career", which I replied long travel distances. Another question was "How competitive are you?" I put 5-8 because I can get competitive.
It all sounded fishy, like a sales job!
A guy came over and asked for my name and I was seated next to another guy who also worked there, they introduced themselves. They asked me very little questions and didn't really talk about the job, but more about the company. They said they wanted to know the face of the people applying and then they asked what position I was more interested in, they said something I forgot and Human resources, which I said I would prefer human resources.
They told me, if I hear from them by 5pm, then I would go onto the next step, and if not that they found someone more suitable.
It was the shortest interview I had ever been on, and the whole thing smelled like a scam and a sales type of job, which is not what I was looking for. I thought, what a waste of time to drive an hour there, just for a 5 minute interview! I didn't want them to call me back, and they didn't!
The funny part is, a week later, I got an email by them. They said that they've tried to contact me several times, but still didn't get an interview with me yet, which was a lie, as I already did and they didn't want me, which was fine because it was sketchy.
I had to make sure that I didn't get anymore unwanted invites for jobs I wouldn't want to do, so I made sure to block employers from viewing my resume online.

Later on, I looked online and apparently the place is a scam! They make you pay to get some sort of insurance license and then many times the job doesn't work out since it's a commission type of job.

Lesson Learned: Some interviews are a total waste of time! And don't bother putting your resume out for anyone to see, otherwise you get a boatload of commission and sales based jobs looking to hound you down. I mean, unless you want a commission based job, then it's easy.

Interview #28, We'll get you a job, lol just kidding, we don't give a fu..

This post is going to be about my 28th job interview and it's also going to be a warning, because this company is nothing but a scam anyways!!

Okay, so my 28th interview was for the staffing agency known as "Randstad". This is one of those occasions where fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice shame on me.
Apparently, I've never talked about the company before. But around three years ago from the date posted in this blog post... 11/12/2015..I went on an interview with a staffing agency called Randstad.. omg I think I've heard that before, oh yeah, I just mentioned it seconds ago.... anyways. I had went on an interview for whatever it was I applied for, and the guy said that they were getting many jobs in and that they would contact me. It was either a week or a few weeks later, I heard nothing from them, so I was like, well  I guess he was a liar liar pants on fire now wasn't he!

So a half of a month ago to around two weeks... I was on the website Indeed and I found job adds for clerical positions, which is what I was looking for, and it was supplied by Randstad. I figured that since I wasn't applying for the company itself, maybe it would be different this time? Well, I was wrong! First off, they didn't contact me until a week later, but I didn't think anything of it. We played phone tag a little bit and then I finally set up an interview, the lady was telling me they really needed to get this position filled and actually asked if I could come in before work. Where as I was going in at 9:15 that day, she wanted me in at 8am, I told her I had work at nine.
Funny enough, I was running late and they called me, I said I got lost, because that's what you say, instead of sounding like a bum. Anyways, I got there like 15 minutes later. I hadn't been on an interview for a bit of a year, so I was out of the loop. The interview was for a File Clerk  at a University or a Hospital, (Both places are associated with each other), apparently there was also an office assistant position as well. I was a little awkward, but I think I did pretty well, the lady seemed down to earth and friendly. She was asking me questions about how experienced I was with certain things and she asked me to do a skills test online. Everything seemed okay and I just thought it was different this time, especially since it was a different person and a different building. Although, there were certain things that stuck out in my mind. Such as at the end of the interview, she said if she didn't get back to me, to call or email her, but email is preferred. Which is fishy, because wouldn't phone be better?
I waited a week and I emailed her and I got nothing, a waited a few days and realized that she was just as useless as the first time! WASTE OF TIME!! The only good thing is that I got re-familiar with interviews and the area, since it was a 30 minute drive, I got some experience of the surroundings.
I was telling my aunt about the interview and she said, I should look online on the university's website and see if I could get the same job through them, and I would get paid more since staffing agency's take some of the cut.

I had told some people I work with about the company Randstad, and in fact, one girl has tried them and they were no use to her at all. Another woman, who is also a Donna, which is a tag on this blog. Had told me about how her job, actually supplies people from another staffing agency called Aerotek and that I should try them out instead, she couldn't recommend Randstad either!
I do however know two people who did get jobs through Randstad, but they're weird jobs and they don't allow you to have references for the company that they loan you out to. So if you work for a company through Randstad for two years, you can't use a supervisor or whoever as a reference, you're not allowed to!

Later on, I looked up Randstad and I found reviews upon reviews. Looks like "Randstad" likes to pull a fast one on people all of the time, there were so many people that went on interviews and Randstad did ABSOLUTELY NOTHING FOR THEM! Apparently the company has a monthly quota, they HAVE to have a certain amount of people for interviews, but they don't have to hire them for anything, so they waste people's time and money just so they don't get fired from their own job! They pretty much prey on the unemployed, or people searching for something new. But what about that person that has no money?  You just screwed them out of gas money! This company is just a bad company! I don't recommend at all!

This is not only a post about an interview experience, but also a WARNING! Try another staffing agency, I know Robert Half is better, because they actually tried to get me something three years ago.
But for the love of everything, don't go to Randstad!

I was applying for jobs the other day, and I was actually very inclined to put that lady's phone number and email in for a job search engine, so people would call her.. but I didn't. Karma can be a ho' sometimes and I hope it gets her.

Lesson Learned: Sometimes a new dog has the same old tricks! You have to be cautious of applying for a company you've applied for before!

Interview number.. I forgot.. what was I up to??

So, today 8/28/2014 I went on another interview... Interview 27..You know what they say, third time is a charm.. I don't know what they say about the fourth time.. but I went on my fourth interview with Macy's.
I decided to go and apply for Macy's... even though I had been on an interview with them three times in the past 2 years ago... last time was 10/00/2012.
I really want to get an office job, but I have to get my driver's license first.. I thought I would apply for Macy's for reasons.. even though it was a retail position I clearly applied for.
I filled out their survey, which I thought I had failed because the other times I applied, I got an email about an interview the next day.. but this one I got the email two days later.

I was really nervous as I hadn't been on an interview for a year... I just kept writing down possible questions they would ask me.
I was sitting in the waiting room for a while.. maybe 5-10 minutes.
The interviewer was actually the manager that interviewed me the last time I went on an interview, I don't know if she recognized me or not though.
The weird thing is she did not ask me any questions that I had saved.. not even the one that I was asked previously at another time with a different interviewer (Describe a time you used teamwork)..
The questions she asked were pretty simple, such as if I work well with a team and alone.. which department I would be interested.. what do I do at my current job.. simple things. There were even things that she filled out for me without even asking me..
It was so weird, when I didn't have retail experience, it was really trivial.. but after working in another retail industry (That I cannot name).. half of the stuff I didn't even need to mention... I almost felt like I was overqualified.
What I wanted to do was work at my current job and Macy's, both part time; but they said I could only choose one or the other.
My current job I am full time and get paid 8.25.. Macy's wanted to hire me.. I said part time before I knew I could not work both jobs... and they would pay me 8.00 an hour.
I started to realize that me applying for Macy's was just kind of silly... I already work in retail.. and the store I work at is a bit more laid back than Macy's from what the manager was describing it. I started having flash backs about how my current job is.. and even though it's stressful, I feel like I am supposed to be there.. like Macy's may just not be the place for me.
My original plan was to get my license and an office job..but getting a job at Macy's would just be a detour.
I told the interviewer I would get back to her if I still want the job... But I don't think I will take it.
I was having problems at my current job.. so that's why I thought of going to Macy's.. but to be honest.. It's better to rough it out than run away.. and then go with the original plan of an office job!
So, my first three interviews with Macy's, they didn't want meh.. but now they want meh.. but I don't really want them... weird how things work.

On the plus side, since I do want to get a new job soon, of the clerical kind.. this interview gets me a little toasty for interviews.. and ready for the big boys.

Lesson Learned: You may realize that, the job isn't the right job for you.

Interview # 26: Get your floaties, we're going swimming!

My current job doesn't give me enough hours, so I went on an adventure and started to apply for other jobs... a particularly popular pool company took interest in me...this is that interview...

Also, here is some adventure music... you're welcome..

My 26th interview was actually a really interesting interview, I had two interviews on two different days, one on Monday and one on Wednesday, my first interview on Monday was a phone interview on account of the manager having to go to another store.

When I found out I had an interview for the company, I had pictured what the place would look like, so I was surprised when I found out it looked incredibly different and slightly like the inside of a garage.
The only person there was the assistant manager, the manager was out at another store for whatever reason. I was actually really excited that the managers were men; most of the time they are women, and I just think it's a bit refreshing to see male managers rather than all of the female supervisors and managers I have had, as well as interviewers. Male managers and supervisors are just rare, so I thought it was cool that there were some here.
Since the manager was at another store, I was given a phone interview. The assistant manager gave me a phone and showed me to the office room so I could have my interview..
The interview went nicely, the manager even said that I was what they were looking for.. and for someone who hadn't been on an interview for 4-5 months, I think I did well. the manager had no problem that I already have a job and just looking for a second one..
Since he liked me as a candidate, he said he would contact me soon.
I was contacted later that day via phone and was scheduled a second interview on the Wednesday.

I finally got to meet the manager, I was kind of hoping the manager would be really attractive, but he wasn't.
The interview was just as good as the phone interview, they were looking for someone who could be working in the day on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday... which was perfect because I usually work at my job in retail at nights.. so I could go there in the morning and go to my current job at night.
There was one part where he asked me if I was familiar with POS (Point of Sales)... and I said I had no idea what that was, but I do have register experience... in which he said POS was being on the register.
After more of the interview, he said the last thing to do was to call my references, which is something no employer has ever said to me before. I gave him my references after he said he would look at the ones that I put in online, since the one I had printed was evidently a bit longer.
He said after he called my references he would send me an email.

I have no idea if I got the job or not, as it is already Sunday and I haven't heard back at all. I'm guessing I didn't get it!

Edit: It's almost been two weeks and so I will assume I did not get it.


Lesson Learned: Even if you get a second interview with a company, it still does not mean they will hire you.

Interview 25: It's so magical~

My 25th interview was for Macy's the third time! It took place Friday October 5th, 2012.

For the first time, I actually woke up early at 10 am and had breakfast, something I hadn't done before because interviews always made me nervous and I'd end up sleeping at like 3 or 4 in the morning.
My interview was at 11:45 am.

I got dressed and I left to go to Macy's....

When I got there, I was getting so excited, my first interview was a bust and my second one was pointless. But this time, this time felt different and I was wide awake and not sleepy either... I felt a magical energy at work.
When I got there, I waited for about 10 minutes thinking about how much better I was than the two other people in the room looking for an interview.
When I finally got interviewed it was by a woman with very hairy arms, she was very nice though.
The interview went well and the lady even gave me the answer to one of the questions.

She asked these questions which could be helpful to someone else.

○ Why do you want to work at macys?

My answer was that I wanted to work in retail.

○ Do you have retail experience

In which I said no and the woman said they'd train me.

○ If you saw someone stealing a product, what would you do?

I said that I'd tell them not to do that, but she said it was the wrong answer in which I said tell the supervisor.
Apparently, at Macy's... if someone steals something, the employees become ninja's and sneak around the building to watch what that person who stole the first time, it's a big hush hush until the person is caught.

○ What was a time you had to work as a team?

I said one time I went with my friends to take pictures for our photography class.

In the end I said that the reason why they should hire me was because  I am Reliable, honest and Hardworking and they would not be disappointed.

The next day I got an email at 10 am, although I didn't read it until 2 am on the 7th.
It said your basic, "We didn't like you.. but have a nice day!"

Thank you for your interest in the position of Macy's 

We have carefully reviewed your skills and qualifications. Unfortunately, we do not have an appropriate job opportunity for you.

We thank you again for your interest in exploring employment opportunities with us, and wish you much success in your future endeavors.

Sincerely,

Human Resources

Macy's

Blah Blah Blah, at this point I'd rather not be notified... I really thought it would work out this time, but  I guess not.

At least I got to see a cute guy at the supermarket later on...

It also had a bad pay, 8.00$ an hour is criminal...
I think all companies should make minimum wage set as 10 an hour, it's a fair pay..I mean a gallon of milk is 5 dollars..

Lesson Learned: Yeah, I really don't know anymore...

I guess, don't get your hopes up and just keep applying...

Interview #24: That went well.... NOT!

Interview #24 happened to me today 9/21/2012, at about 11:30 AM.

I received a phone call from a woman named Stephanie, I remember it ringing. But I let it go to my messages because it was 8 AM and I was tired...
I called back at around 11 Am, and the receptionist had me on hold for literally about 3 minutes, as I checked the timer my phone has.

When I spoke with the lady, she asked me what kind of worker I was. I said I was a hard worker and I always do what I'm supposed to do.
She then asked me what my negatives were; in which I responded Math. I continued to say that "In order to combat it, I would use a calculator".
She said that the job has a whole lot of math and then she started to pause... she said she'd get someone to call me later. In which she said "You know what, to be honest. I won't be calling you back, good luck on the job search".

I was like "Well, that was rude".

I thought that maybe I should have said something before she hung up... after that I just said that I didn't need that job anyways, since I don't like math... it would have been terrible. I then said that I should get back to more important things, like mailing a letter to my friend Donna, it's about a photography contest.

The funny thing is, in the message... I couldn't pick out what the companies name was and so I have no idea how they got my resume. I do think it may be a job I applied for that was a graphic design job, but also has lot's of math involved. Which is stupid because usually artists are terrible at math, finding someone that is good with both is incredibly rare. I only know two people who are artists and good at math, out of thirty people. I hope these idiots realize that.. if it of course is that job that I am thinking about... it may not be though.

Lesson Learned: On occasion, you will have no idea where the company got your resume, or who they are.
An interesting trick is to put their phone number in the search bar on a search engine, and usually links will show what company the phone belongs to... it doesn't always work, but it does work most of the time.

I actually just tried this, and it worked! It is in fact not the company I thought it was, but one I applied for the other day.

If you'll excuse me, I have some negative reviews to make about them on the internet....


UPDATE: I actually sent them something in the comments on their website and I told them how they shouldn't be rude.
They actually called me back and apologized for it, but they said it was someone else that I was interviewed by, not the original person that called me.

Interview # 23: Who ordered 50 awards for Mr. Sparkly butt? Who is that?!

My 23rd interview was at a familiar place, I went on my 5th interview.

http://transcendingintojobs.blogspot.com/2012/09/interview-5.html

This position was for a "Production Artist", apparently it was about adding lettering and text to customizable items for customers.

Despite it being a place I've been to, I was late by an hour because I got lost. I think it's because my mother was driving (Who always gets lost).
I told her I think we should have went one way, but then we went another way. We kept going down this one road and then we were practically in another town and then there was a roadblock so traffic was heavy.

By the time I got there, I told them why I was late and about 10 minutes later they saw me. I think the interview went nicely, I also went on to say that I also have an online portfolio that has newer things. Since the last Graphic Design position I went on an interview went badly, and one reason was because I had older things on my physical portfolio.

I think the interview went well... but three hours after I got home. I received an email saying this...

We certainly enjoyed speaking with you and appreciate your patience throughout our search process.

While we were very impressed with your qualifications, we were faced with a difficult decision of continuing our search for candidates who we believe are more closely matched with what we are looking for in this position. 

Please accept our best wishes and thank you for your interest in Positive Promotions.

One thing I'm not doing, is accepting their best wishes...It's useless.. It;s just like saying "We didn't like you.. but have a nice day!"


Lesson Learned: Really, make sure you know where you're going. Also, if they say they'll contact you within a week, they may just send you an email or call you as little as three hours later saying they are looking for a different kind of person.

Interview # 22: Closure Closure, you need closure! *Closes door*

Interview number 22 was my third interview at a book publishing company called "Nova".
I was interviewed by a woman named Jo-Ann, I would have been interviewed by Donna 3 if she hadn't been on vacation.
I think I had a very nice interview, I presented myself well and I would jab at anything about the position.
For example, it was about editing and re reading subjects in books and I would make sure everything was correct. So I would go on about how I've used programs like microsoft word and excel.
They also liked me  for my graphic design experience, they mentioned there was someone who had so much work to do that extra help would have been... well....helpful!
I was on the interview for about a half an hour! I really thought that maybe I had a chance... before I left I asked if I could be contact whether or not I got the position or not. The interviewers exact words were "You want closure."
BUT! I never got a response! It's almost been a month since then, it was at the middle of August 2012.
So, it's safe to say I didn't get that job. =_="

Lesson Learned: It can really really seem like you got the job, the person/s may love you... but it doesn't mean you did get it.