Have You Ever Had a “Life’s Most Embarrassing Moment”?
I have, and I still have the scars
The first job I had straight out of College would be mine for the next twelve years. It was an incredible journey, taking me from an accounting clerk all the way to Manager of Accounting and Information Services. I loved it! It was always interesting, challenging, and filled with great people.
However, there would come a time when it just wasn’t enough for me. I worked for a travel agency/auto club, not to mention any names of course, or three-letter acronyms. In the latter years, most of my work was project-based. There were upgrades in software and technology, many that changed the industry forever. It was late nights, early mornings and even weekends, but I found it fascinating.
After 9/11, the travel industry took a nose-dive, and the projects came to a halt. It didn’t hit us as hard as it did some, but the extra cash wasn’t there anymore for upgrades and innovations.
I soon grew bored and listless. Where I had once flexed my brain cells on a daily basis, I was now awash in a sea of paper. The work was routine and uninspiring.
I decided it was time for me to take wing and fly.
I began, somewhat nervously, looking for a new job.
The thought of having to do interviews was terrifying. I could hold my own in a room full of executives and board members, but, facing a potential employer was daunting. It’s not something I had a lot of experience with. The job I had while in College (as a telemarketer) was my first interview ever. After College, the clerk position was offered to me at the second place that granted me an interview. That’s it. I was 34, and I had gone on exactly 3 interviews in my life.
I had a lot of coaching from family, friends and even my boss, before I took that next interview. I bought a new suit, new shoes and practiced my spiel for hours. I was ready and confident when I walked in.
I knew I could do this and wow them all!
Funny how some things work out.
The receptionist told me that they were running a bit late and it would be another 15 minutes before I was called in. I asked where the washrooms were, and she gave me…
