And that's why you go on the interview...

...because the person you would be working for is a controlling maniac evident in the first 4 minutes of the interview.

...because it turns out it'll take you four hours to get there.

...because by "flex-time" they mean between 8:45 & 9:00 am to 5:00 or 5:15 pm.

...because the location is so depressing, you may actually visit that strip bar next door.

...because they ask you trick questions that are not specific and the answer is both yes AND no.

...because they clearly have nothing else in their lives and want to hire someone who will also devote their entire life to the job (for under 35 a year).

...because when you get there it is clear that the entire system is convoluted and laughably inefficient and that's not even your strong suit.

...because the person interviewing you has fallen asleep.

...because the person interviewing you looks like they just rolled out of bed (and it's not that kind of job).

...because I have YET to go on a job interview where I walk away thinking, "THIS - THIS is the place I want to work!"

Good grief!

The Atlantic recently had an article about companies which hire by testing their potential employees via online games.  It sounds intimidating, but it takes all the personal biases out of the equation.  How often have people assumed any of the following about me?
- I'm too young (I look younger than I am).

- I'll have kids in the next few years and they'll have to pay for it (whether true or not [not]).

- I don't look like someone who could be in charge (read: I'm a chick).

- I'm not hireable because I left my last job (after 8.5 years).

- I'm a bitch (I'm skinny and pretty, therefore, catty and cold).

It's really hard to interview for both parties.  You only get an hour of face-time (give or take) and everyone is on their best behavior.  I actually like the idea behind the article (which is good, you should read it).  It both gives the employer an unbiased evaluation but also the employee an unbiased evaluation as to whether the position might be a good fit.

But I'll tell you (since this IS my blog and all) some things I've learned from all this interviewing and job hunting:

- Practice makes perfect.  You get better at interviewing the more you do it.

- Everyone asks the same questions (mostly).

- The best attitude you can take is one of "meant to be".  Relax.  If it doesn't go well or you are not offered the job (or it is a terrible disappointment), then it's just not meant to be.  Perhaps a new opportunity is around the corner.

- Rework your resume and cover letter.  I've gotten excellent response.  If you haven't - you are either not applying to the correct positions or you need a new tactic.  Do some research & try a few things out.

-  Stop applying to everything out there.  Focus your efforts.  Spend an hour or four writing your cover letter & updating your resume for each position you apply to and only apply to those positions which are amazing.

I mean, I'm no expert, but that's how it's shaken out for me thus far.

Good luck to those looking - may you find your perfect fit.  Onward!