I had the opportunity to take part in a phone interview this week for a position I had recently applied for. The recruiter opened by asking some general questions about myself. This being a faith-based company, I was also asked about my involvement with church, etc. The interview was cruising along until I was told that I lacked the necessary experience. The recruiter said that he would like me to come in and interview for a lesser position within the company. One that happened to pay what I made per hour in high school.
I realized immediately that I was being undervalued. I disagreed with the recruiter’s assessment. My resume and experience reflect that I am well suited for the position. I figure when you start to disagree with an interviewer, something is wrong. The interview is much like a first date, everyone is putting their best foot forward. This interview was a misstep at a dance.
Defenses up, I listened to the marketing spiel about the company. A spiel I had read, word-for-word, on the company’s website. The interview left me with a disingenuous taste, as if manipulation had occurred.
- The Negative: “Your skills are lacking.”
- The Positive: “…but we have another opening that pays next to nothing!”
- The Positive, Positive: “…and we are promoting on a weekly basis.”
In the end, I declined a further interview. Chalk this one up as a learning experience and keep on applying. The white whale exists.
JohnnyBGamer 