You Shouldn't Hire Me (or, How I Got the Job)

The only thing right about my interview techniques is that I am authentically myself. Most everything else I think could be described as what not to do in a job interview.

Here's how I started the phone conversation yesterday with a potential new client: "I was looking over the job description and I have to tell you, I don't think I'm qualified for the position." I went on to say, "I don't want to waste your time."

I did backtrack and explain that, actually, my skills matched most of the qualifications, it was just the biggest ones (education and training in the area) where I had no experience. Even in the backtracking, though, I was self-defeating. "I've got mush for brains." (Insulting myself, not instilling confidence.) "I just had a baby." (My personal life will affect my work.) And, "I've never done this before." (No experience.)

It would be fine to say this was because I was off my game, trying to get by on only a few hours sleep. But, it's how I've always done interviews. I am a confident person. I know I can do almost anything if I decide I want to, within reason. There's just something about leading with the worst that sets me at ease. Maybe it's because there's no where to go but up. Or maybe it's because I want them to know what they're really getting but have them choose me anyway. I think both are the case. I also feel that fairly (although with some dramatic effect at times) criticizing my skills shows a level of honesty most people appreciate. Not that my style is calculated or intentional. I just always blurt out what I'm thinking, no matter how fitting.

Before this conversation I told someone how almost every job I've gotten my resume did not reflect the skills required. In fact, I've landed jobs where people just assumed I have experience but never asked me about it and I never explained. That's how I got started with newspaper articles and with grant writing. The work I get has mostly come from personal references and engaging conversations with those looking to hire.

Now, it turns out that job yesterday pays less than my usual rate. However, the non-financial benefits add priceless value to the position. It's in an area I've never worked. It will be challenging. And, it has benefits that can't be beat for this working-from-home mother (no on-sight meetings, limited phone work, no set schedule).

I started the interview conversation with a lousy lead. But, I was entirely myself, never pretending to be someone I'm not. For me, that's what counts.

(Plus, I got the job. So, there's that.)


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