top of page

Basically we were let go without much warning

A portion of my past success has come from having a stable family life and spouse dedicated to my performing well. When I first got married, I stressed a little over how to balance work and family, as though it had been a juggling act. Not so. That approach helps me to be a stronger supporter and enabler on the job. Of course, with a spouse that supports me and wants me to do well is always a plus, for me and where I work. With all due respects, is that relevant to this particular job? There's a two year gap, what happened?

 

The company I worked for went under. The owner was a great guy but he was overextended, and apparently when the bills came due, he was unable to meet his obligations. Basically we were let go without much warning. Since that time, I have been doing 3 things. First, I have been working in a temp position to help pay the bills. Second, I have been taking night courses in financial management at our regional community college. And I really do volunteer for the local museum, raising funds. All of that makes me a fantastic fit for this sales position.

 

I believe I'm a fantastic match for this position and you will be the happy beneficiary of their talents and experience that I bring to the table. So, in every way, your needs will be resolved by bringing me. But there are questions which are legal to ask, yet are obscure enough to cause problems for you. In theory, you could simply state that they asked an inappropriate question which you decline to answer. With all due respect, is that relevant to this particular job? As we discussed and agreed, your needs for a business analyst is a excellent fit for my skills and experience. As I understand it, as I am sure that you are aware, being pregnant does not disqualify me for this or any position. It's not a issue, is it? And I urge that - if they ask or continue to be coy in asking illegal questions during the interview. Business Analyst Interview Questions and Answers

 

However, assuming the interviewer didn't mean to violate your privacy, how can you answer these kinds of questions without jeopardizing your chances? There's nothing like being asked an illegal question in a job interview to raise the stress level up a couple thousand notches. In theory, there is a laundry list of questions which you cannot be asked. Still, you will be. You'll be asked by interviewers who don't know any better, and sadly, by those who do know better. So, tell me what are your weaknesses? There's that old saying, "where angels fear to tread..." I have always gotten high marks for being pro-active and actually seeking out responsibility. That said, I understand the flip side of this is being foolhardy. At this point, however, having matured, having made some mistakes, I believe I'm in a position, now, to better balance taking the initiative with caution. And I have turned into one of the strengths I will bring to this position. Also, my Achilles heel is Ho-ho's, but it's much easier today.

 

I don't understand. I am not some work guru that has the answers. Still, if I had been asked these questions, I might answer as following: I am 49, and I think it's a great era for this position. Becoming a part of your company, a productive part of your company, with no hand holding is something which I think you will appreciate. 

bottom of page