Interviewing Is Not The Spanish Inquisition
Listen up, warriors of the corporate Colosseum. Here’s the unvarnished truth that’s easy to overlook in the cutthroat world of ladder-climbing: an interview isn’t a one-way ticket to the Spanish Inquisition. It’s a dance, a give-and-take. You’re not just the lowly subject under the microscope — you’re also the scientist, the observer.
Don’t let the mahogany desks and the tailored suits intimidate you. As they size you up, you better be doing the same. Don’t buy the fairy tale that you’re the only one being evaluated. It’s a two-way street, baby. And here’s the thing — I’ve got a handy cheat sheet for you: the triple ‘P’ rule of corporate grilling — Pay, Progress, and Purpose.
👉 First up, Pay. Let’s drop the pretense. Money matters. You need to know that you’re not just trading hours for peanuts. Make sure they’re transparent about pay scales, bonuses, and raises. Remember, you’re not a charity — don’t shy away from the money talk.
👉 Next, Progress. If you’re not moving forward, you’re drifting backward. Does the company invest in employee development? Look for training programs, mentorships, and opportunities for skill enhancement. You don’t want to be stuck on a corporate treadmill, running hard and going nowhere.
👉 Lastly, Purpose. This is where your paycheck meets your principles. Do the company’s values gel with yours? Are they doing more than just turning a profit? Is their “difference” more than a marketing gimmick? Will you be proud to tell your grandma what you do?
Your time is a damn non-refundable resource. Don’t squander it on a company that doesn’t value it. Vet your potential employer as thoroughly as they vet you. You’re not just a cog in the machine — you’re the fuel that keeps it running. Raise your standards, and demand better.
So, suit up, folks. You’re not just a supplicant begging for a job. You’re the golden ticket they’ve been searching for. Remember: companies don’t deserve you — they have to earn you.
Until next time, stay bold, stay hungry.
