Being Brave

Jobseeker's Diary serie: Being Brave

Applying for jobs can be tiresome at times. But generally speaking, the hardest part is getting a response. Employers are often unable to respond to each and every application, assuming they have even read your application.

I had tried my luck at applying for a job at a local bar where I usually study. The environment was always lovely, as were the staff, and I could easily see myself working there. A couple of weeks had passed and I began to give up hope. Maybe it was not the job for me. Then a few days later, much to my surprise, I received an email inviting me for an interview. As great as this was, it came at the wrong time. I had just begun my exams and had no time for an interview. What made it worse was the fact that the interview was scheduled right in the middle of my exam. Of course I was not going to miss my exam to attend a job interview for a position I may or may not get.

Instead of passing up the opportunity, I requested a different date. The email stated to let them know if I was available, and if not they would find another slot in which to interview me. This was great news; I honestly thought that if I could not make it then that would be it. No more consideration and bye bye cool job. So I did as they asked and emailed to inform that I could not make the interview, and that another time would be best. Now I did not exactly expect a speedy response. However, since they were the ones that mentioned they would be happy to interview me at another time, I at least expected a reply within a few days.

A week or so had gone by and still nothing. I felt like I was playing the waiting game, did they want me? Did they not? Did they already find someone else? I could easily assume that the answer to the last question was a ‘yes’, but something told me I had to at least try to get that interview. I sent another email with the same message in the hopes that they would respond. By this time my exams were over so I was happy to meet them at any time, on any day with no problems. Within two days the manager replied, apologizing for not replying earlier, which I was thankful for. He invited me for an interview that week and I felt relief. I could not believe it. Usually I am not so brave when it comes to such situations. I always thought that if an employer decides not to respond, then they did not want you in the first place. As it turns out, this employer really was just busy. Had I not followed up on my last email demonstrating that I really wanted to be properly considered for the job position, it might have been another opportunity lost.

Every situation is different. Sometimes the results might not be what you expect but you will never know unless you try. A little bravery does a soul some good. Being proactive with your follow-ups might just get you the job you were hoping for. After all, persistence is key.

Lucine Bassa