Work: May 2007 Archives

We interviewed five individuals last week for the job.  The committee agreed on one of those as being a perfect fit, one of them being good enough to spend the time on training and the others just not being what we need.

It was the first time that I had actually been on the other side of the table during an interview and it was very eye-opening.  The reality of job interviews is that no-one likes them but they are a requirement due to the nature of business.  For the interviewee it is a nerve-racking experience where they are required to put themselves out there and hope they can demonstrate at least something that the interviewer will like.  For the interviewer it can be a challenge to see past the smoke and mirrors to find out if the interviewee is really capable of the job or just capable of smoke and mirrors.

I won't be specific as I believe that the interview experience is something that an interviewer shouldn't discuss but I will pass on a few bytes of reality.

If you are interviewing for a job that requires knowledge of technology, at least try to learn the basics.  While many organizations have gone the way of Dreamweaver and Frontpage there are many, many more who have not.  WYSIWYG design has always been seen as the way to begin but not the way to end.  Especially in a constantly changing environment that requires constant updates and attention.  And remember that everyone you meet is probably playing a role in the employment decision, especially the secretary.