I got my first interview fairly quickly about a week after being laid off. It was a junior role at a hedge fund thanks to my good friend Ashley. Prior to the interview, she informed me that there were some concerns about me being over qualified but I went for it anyways. I could not wait to get back to the office life even though it had only been a week. I was ready to try something new. I thought whatever it is, I will make the best of it. I always do.
I started getting nervous on my cab ride to the interview. It was my first one in over 3 years and I had a terrible cold. I could barely speak. I was doing everything to keep my palms dry while going over few interview answers in my head. The nerves, traffic, and the heat was starting to make me nauseous.
I got there on time and met with the interviewers separately. I talked about my previous experiences and my desire to try something new. I was honest about the restructuring and that my previous role was eliminated. Despite my efforts, I could not convince them I was genuinely interested in starting over (from the bottom) and willing to leave behind years of hard work to get a seat on the table. I think I almost fooled myself too.
The second interview came in the form of a blessing and another good friend, Joe and his colleague, Arkie (yes, that network and connectivity is a powerful tool). I had been unemployed for three weeks when I received a call from HR early in the morning about this amazing role. It was everything I could ask for and more. An opportunity to cover the entirety of the Financial Institutions business of which I love and a chance to acquire new skillsets. A transition from relationship management to portfolio management. It was a dream. We arranged for an official interview with Head of FI and HR at 4pm on a Friday. I had about few days to prepare. No backups and that was it. I wanted this role more than anything.
I studied the job description they sent me the night before the interview. I went over every single item on that sheet and connected them to my past experiences. I asked myself honestly if I was right for the role, why I was right for the role, and how I would execute the role. Once I was satisfied with my answers, I knew I was ready. That night Jimmy, my former colleague texted me with some advise and reaffirmed that I was ready to once again take my career to the next level.
The next day I was anxious. I had arranged a lunch with Heather, another former colleague (this was before I knew about the interview). I could have canceled but I decided to meet her anyways, an attempt to stay calm before “going into battle”. It worked.
Once again, I was in a cab heading to my interview. But this time, I was focus and determined. When I got there, I realized (to my advantage) I only have to perform once unlike the last time. Both interviewers were present and it was show time. I sat down, took a deep breath, and began with who I am, my professional journey, and every step of the way that got me here today. I talked about executions in details, I mean down to columns on spreadsheets, issues, solutions, and delivery. The whole entire end to end process. I left nothing out. I told them I reviewed the job descriptions and the reasons why I was the right person for the role. I poured my heart out because I am truly passionate about this business. And if I was given the chance, I would give it my all and more. Lastly, I asked their near and long term expectations for the role and the response was something I knew I could deliver. I thanked them for considering me for this opportunity. I let them know that I was the right person for the job. The next day, the amazing Jimmy put in a good word for me with Jeff, a member from their team and so I waited.
The following Tuesday, they called to negotiate salary and the position was offered to me on Wednesday the next day. “Yes, I’m available as soon as possible” I responded. My first official day on the job was the Monday after that week.
And that’s how I got back on my feet and stronger than ever before. Huge thanks to those who stood by me and never gave up on me.
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