Episode 15
Always the runner up? Here's what it means, and why it's not a bad thing
Have you been told you're a backup candidate, or that you only * just * missed out. Listen to this episode before you let those feelings of rejection creep in!
In this episode, Emma and Sarah discuss what it means and what you should do. We explain why it's not necessarily a bad thing and share our own success stories of hiring or being hired as a backup candidate.
We also chat about how the "if I'm not their first choice I don't want it" mindset isn't always helpful or applicable in the job search [note, we definitely DO support this energy in your dating life].
🏀 Shoot Your Shot - Shoutout to Brittany! “I am obsessed with this podcast. You both have the best voices, I literally soak up everything you both say. I'm on a temporary contract at work and didn't want to return to my substantive position, so started applying for other external jobs. The first interview I absolutely bombed, but then I found your podcast! (I have been at the same company for 9 years and have had a lot of internal transfers, so don't have much interview experience/ I usually try to avoid them like the plague). I was feeling really deflated/stuck, and just lacking confidence in my ability to ever get another job because I thought my interview skills were that bad. After listening to your podcast though I felt so incredibly empowered and aware of my transferable skills. I got an interview with a government agency, which I would have previously found so scary and intimidating. I treated your podcast like a bible while I prepared for that interview, and went into it feeling so confident and prepared! It was in a different area to where I live, so I knew I probably wouldn't get this job, but wanted to do well to prove to myself I could do this and to hopefully get into the merit pool for local positions. My nerves didn't get the best of me and I answered all the questions well. I even stayed firm on the days I would be willing to travel if the hybrid arrangement was negotiable. I received a call from one of the panel members afterwards with absolute glowing feedback and to tell me I'm successfully in the merit pool for local positions over the next 18 months (They said I had everything they were looking for, but there was no wriggle room on the hybrid arrangement). Even though I didnt get that position, I have never felt more proud of myself and am still on such a high. I have even since had the confidence to speak to my current manager about career development opportunities/ a permanent role in her team. This has lead to really great internal feedback on how I'm doing, a permanent job offer and reassurance that there will be upcoming managerial positions that I would be suitable for. I'm still working up the courage to ask for a salary review. All in all, my situation hasn't changed financially or in terms of a better title, but my mindset and self confidence has improved immensely. Keep the podcast coming! I would love to hear more on creating internal champions/mentors and networking! (Especially when your mentors are very busy and you work remotely so don't get many chances to speak to them) Thanks girls x”
Resources Mentioned:
🔥Our episode about rejection: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/54b5ba16-d654-46ae-a338-cb7c39785fe5
☕ Did our podcast help you out? Want to say thank you in coffee form? Shout us a virtual coffee here: www.buymeacoffee.com/interviewboss
📄 To book an interview coaching session with Sarah, go to www.interviewboss.com.au/coaching
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