June’s Word of The Month is J-O-B. As many of you loyal readers may know, I have been on the job hunt. This week alone, I had 3 interviews and went to one job fair. Aren’t ya proud of me?
Today I had my first group interview. It was unexpected and exciting at the same time. Along with 5 other candidates of different races and ages, I was vying for a spot as part-time assistant to the Human Resources department. The first mistake I made was being late. Uh-oh. I mean, I made the mistake of thinking since the job was in my neighborhood, I didn’t need extra time to get there. I didn’t intend on being late but nothing is more embarrassing than walking into a conference room with a panel of 3 interviewers, where people are already in the process of being asked questions, and having everyone in slow-motion look at you enter the room hereinafter label you as ‘the late girl.’ For the record, I was 5 minutes late. But the bottom line is LATE is LATE. Don’t be like me!
The aspect I liked about the group interview is that you got to size the other candidates up for yourself. Through their answers, I got to make mental notes of answers I liked (for future interviews) and be my own judge, as well as hope and pray the panel didn’t reuse a certain question I couldn’t find such an eloquent response to. Overall, I had some pretty smart competition. Definitely better qualified to work in accounting and other number matters. As the panel went around the room asking questions, I felt more relaxed, thank God they didn’t decide to ambush me as soon as I got in the room, although I did feel like it was gonna be harder for me to leave a lasting impression outside of my tardy arrival.
Finally, I answered 3-4 questions and then the panel asked each of us why we opted for a part-time job. One candidates answers (paraphrasing):
I like to keep busy, and I’m already working another part-time job. I believe in constant stimulation, I don’t like to sit around and do nothing. In fact, if someone asked me to go to the beach, I would tell them no. I would rather do something motivating.
Hmmm… go hard much? Now, mind you, I know there’s some people out there who might despise the beach specifically. But to say you would rather be working than do something leisurely? I’m not sure that’s the right way to go, nor how many people would honestly believe that. But for this particular candidate, it didn’t seem like she was being dishonest. I felt sorry for her.
The beach motivates me. Not because I love the build-up of sand in my crotch area if I decide to take a dip. Not even because I like to show off my hot bod and people-watch. 
I like the beach because it represents a moment where you don’t have to think about the banal qualities of work, being on time, or deadlines. You go to the beach to be. And being for me, beats working any day.
