Pondering the Interview.

United States
January 28, 2007 8:37am CST
I have put a lot of thought into my interview that happened on Friday. Although I really would like to get back to work, I am not sure this is the job for me. As I do not want to end up in the same boat I was when I left my last job, I want to make sure that the job I take will be good for me. At the first interview, I explained what work hours I am looking for and why I needed those particular hours. This job had hours that were off what I needed. I also explained what I am physically and mentally capable of doing. This job required duties that I had told the first interviewer that I was not capable of doing. After much loss of sleep and pondering over this weekend, I have decided that I will be calling the woman who gave me my first interview and explaining my concerns and requesting a chance at another opening that would better fit my needs as an employee. I would rather take a job that is best for me, that I will enjoy. I know that many will think I should just take the job until something better comes along, but this is really not one of those types of jobs that you can just leave. There are people involved. It is unfair to those people that you service to get attached and then leave. So, I am back at square one.
15 people like this
45 responses
@melanie652 (2524)
• United States
29 Jan 07
For what it's worth, I think you've made the right decision. When something is bothering me, I toss and turn at night too. After what little sleep I do get, I usually wake up the next morning knowing what I need to do. Sounds like you've figured out the right thing you need to do on the job? Nothing wrong with that. I think the prospective employer would be happier too if you're honest about the other position being a better "fit" for you than if you took the position you don't really want and then quit shortly thereafter. Things will work out - hang in there!!
• United States
8 Feb 07
Thank you Mel! I had another interview today and told her about the last interview. This interview was more like 2 people telling each other what they liked about a job and what they didn't. It was friendly, informative and I left feeling quite good about the interview and the job that I applied for.
• United States
9 Feb 07
That's great! That's usually a good sign when you walk out of an interview with a good feeling. My fingers are crossed for you? :)
@lafavorito (2959)
• Philippines
29 Jan 07
It seemed that we have the same dilemna. I'll be going to a job interview tomorrow and I'm nervous that they might give me a sales position but I feel like it's time for me to have a job with regular office hours. And I'll be going back to school soon so I'm still unsure if I want to have a job.
• United States
29 Jan 07
I agree with you. You should really look for a job that you are mentally and physically capable to do. I don't think it would be a good idea for you to start the job that they are offering you and then leave especially when other people are involved. I'm sure you'll find something. Good luck.
2 people like this
@howiedy (236)
• Philippines
29 Jan 07
I am sorry to here that you are going back at square one. Choosing a job really is nerve wracking. You will be caught between necessity and self-fulfillment. If you badly need the dime and you think you can still excel well in the job where you are half-hearted, then go for it. But if you are thinking of the type of job that you will stay for the longest time, then choose one that you will be happy in. Choose one that you love. Make sure that the job you love will also be more than enough to fit your needs. Hope you decide inteliigently. God bless!
2 people like this
@slickcut (8141)
• United States
29 Jan 07
i can sure understand your thoughts on this,because i held several jobs that totally was not for me,and i was very unhappy...Usually somewhere in the back of your mind you have a thought as to what you would really like to do as far as your career...I had always enjoyed the beauty industry,so i took some college and finally went into cosmetology which would allow me to go into several fields of the beauty industry..I decided after I finished college and went and took my finals and went to austin Tx to get my license that I would go into the field of hair styling and so thats what I do and I totally love my work,until i found my bliss I was not happy...As far as what you are thinking about ,you will have to do what you feel is right for you as I did,no one can really advise you ,so if you are not totally happy taking this job then I would not do so.You must be happy in what you are doing in your career field or you will not be your best at it....If i were you I would follow what I wanted until I got there,and when you do then that is where you will excell..good luck to you in whatever you decide..
• Canada
29 Jan 07
Elusive, Taking the job that best suits your situation would actually be a good thing simply because you'll less stressed out, as far as you're own schedule is concerned, taking a job that pays more is not always a good thing. I would take the job that makes your situation easier to adjust too!
@sureshmoe (974)
• India
29 Jan 07
If u continue like this in other interviews, u might surely not get the better jobs...
1 person likes this
• United States
8 Feb 07
Being able to know your strengths and weaknesses is a positive attribute. This I spoke in an interview that actually took place today. The interview was very positive.
@sunita64 (6469)
• India
29 Jan 07
Well it is good to learn you feel responsible for the job you do. I agree with you that you should take up something to which you can do justice,that is how you are satisfied in job so best of luck for the next job oppurtunity.
2 people like this
@gabs8513 (48686)
• United Kingdom
28 Jan 07
Awwwwwwwww Elusive I am so sorry but no I agree with you if it is not whay you want and asked for then it is better you just do that I do hope that you will soon find something else And you are right in that type of Job where there are People involved you are better of doing what you are doing so no one gets attached My Thoughts are with you
1 person likes this
• United States
28 Jan 07
Thanks Gabs. I just sent an email to let them know my feelings on the matter.
2 people like this
@gabs8513 (48686)
• United Kingdom
28 Jan 07
That is good you did the right thing and I hope you find something suitable soon
1 person likes this
@Willowlady (10658)
• United States
28 Jan 07
Sorry for this process that is putting you under stress. Am still not clear as to the particulars so am unable to tell you want I might do in a similar situation. Do know that things happen for a reason and you must follow what you feel to be right for you. Still stand with you and will now think positive about the phone call you are about to make.
2 people like this
@patootie (3592)
28 Jan 07
Well that's a shame but only you know best what kind of a job you want and if this isn't the right one for you then it's very sensible to have thought it through and then come to the decision you have .. not everyone would think of what's best for others as well as themselves ..
1 person likes this
• United States
28 Jan 07
I told the person interviewing me on Friday that people who come into that type of position should know that it is more than a paycheck. You are working with people.
@vivasuzi (4127)
• United States
28 Jan 07
What kind of job is it? Just curious. I agree if you feel from the start that it's not for you, you shouldn't take it. I interviewed once for a big-time company. I was scheduled to meet with two people back to back, but I didn't make it past the first b/c I said NO. They were shocked. What happened was in the first interview: They asked how I did in Math, particularly statistics. I told them I hated statistics and got a B-. For some reason, they still wanted to continue to interview me for a job that turned out to be mostly math based. Next, they asked about traveling... said I'd be travelling 25% of the time (or 3 months out of a year). And it wasn't the nice kind of travelling where you go to meetings and hob-nob with big important people, it was travelling with a few others to another city and driving around to car dealerships to study demographics and statistics. Um, NO thanks! So I said I wasn't interested and they couldn't believe I just ended the interview 1/2 way through. Really, if you can tell it's not for you, it's not worth it. I did take jobs to "get by", such as I worked as a secretary after college, but that was something I didn't feel guilty leaving b/c the boss knew I'd be looking for a computer job. They were happy enough to get 1.5 years of computer help from me when they were only paying me as a secretary!
1 person likes this
• United States
28 Jan 07
The job is working with developmental handicapped adults.
@XxAngelxX (2830)
• Canada
28 Jan 07
Good for you! I agree, it's better to not take the job if it's not for you. And if there are people you will end up getting attached to and then having to leave it's not really fair to either of you. Plus I don't think it would look to great on a resume either if you were only there for a short time. Keep looking and I'm sure you will find the perfect job.
2 people like this
• United States
29 Jan 07
I don't think you are back at square one!! Look at how much you have grown to recognize what you are capable of, and not just 'taking it to take it'! You should be proud of yourself hun! You are doing the right thing by making the call. The last thing they want is to hire someone for the wrong position....by calling it also shows respect for them which they will not forget, and possibly treat you with a higher priority. Good luck!
2 people like this
@Polly1 (12645)
• United States
28 Jan 07
I am so sorry for you. But you have to do what you have to do. You have to do what is best for you and your family. Whenever anyone ask me for advice, I always tell them to say their prayers and follow their heart. It sounds like you are following your heart. Good luck on the next chapter of your life, things will work out. The right job is out there waiting for you.
1 person likes this
• United States
28 Jan 07
Thanks Polly. I really feel bad about this. I have been looking for a long time for a good job.
1 person likes this
@Thoroughrob (11742)
• United States
28 Jan 07
So sorry that you don't thk the job is for you. You have to do what you think is best for you. Keep your head up, and keep looing, something will come along.
1 person likes this
• United States
28 Jan 07
I have been trying to convince myself that I can do all that is required of the job and that I can work the hours. But, with my daughter experiencing such hardships and the need for me to have my grandson with us more often, I cannot work the hours they require.
• United States
28 Jan 07
I think at this point of your life you deserve to be able to be slightly more "picky" about the job you take! Good luck!
1 person likes this
• United States
28 Jan 07
I would rather be happy in a job that I will work until I am ready to retire than to quit sooner or later because I do not like the job. Thanks HG.
@Perry2007 (2229)
• Philippines
29 Jan 07
Congratulations, You know what you want and find fit your requirements, finding a job that you would be happy doing is one thing you need to consider so that you would stay there longer. There are a lot of job you can apply to, there is the Internet and some other sources for you to get a job. Good Luck
1 person likes this
@mari61960 (4893)
• United States
28 Jan 07
As tough a descision as it is, you're probably doing the best thing for all concerned. If you can already forsee problems then it's best not to start. I think you may be better off being honest with them and asking if they have something better suited to your needs. I know what you mean about being unfair to people that can become attached. I work with disabled adults and children. Mostly "Mentally Challenged". I know first hand what you mean about attatchments. Good Luck, keep us informed.
• United States
28 Jan 07
Thank you Mari. I appreciate your comments.
@dhouston (417)
• United States
28 Jan 07
I'm so sorry you are having a hard time finding the right job. Of course, you are right to be choosy about what kinds works for your needs. We don't live to work, we work to live. You are honorable to cnsider the fact that when other people are involved, you can't just leave. I wish you the best.
1 person likes this
• United States
28 Jan 07
Thank you D. I appreciate it that people aren't being too hard on me for this. My husband included.