I had an interview on Monday. The interviewer didn't ask a single standard interview question. You know the ones - "If I asked your previous supervisor to name one area that you could improve, what would they say?" or "Tell me about a time when you overcame a personal conflict at work." It was wonderful. We actually discussed, as two equals would, what the job entails and how I might contribute. She asked me practical questions and told me at the end of the interview exactly when I'll hear about the next steps. She also promised to call me even if I'm not selected to move on in the process. This is unprecedented in my interviewing experience.
On the way home from the interview, as I was about the walk up the stairs to the train platform, a woman behind said, "Excuse me" and I turned around to face her. She said, "I don't mean to startle you, but you are very well put-together." Not knowing where this was going, but curiosity piqued, I said, "Well, thanks! That's really nice." I did not mention that I was wearing the one and only nice outfit I own.
She inquired about my profession, and I told her I had just come from a job interview. She asked about my professional background, and I talked a bit about my nonprofit experience. She then said, "Well, I'm in leadership development and I'm looking for a new director and think you'd be great at it. Can I give you my card?" Hmmm. I still had no idea what this was all about. A scam? A pyramid scheme? A come-on? A legitimate opportunity? Surely it couldn't be the latter, but I said, "Sure, I'll take a card from anyone." And she handed it over. I gave her one of mine, the curiosity again getting the better of me.
When I looked down at her card, I saw that she works for Mary Kay. The look on my face must have said "Oh Jesus, no way, this chic is trying to sell me makeup" because she immediately said not to worry, she wasn't trying to sell me makeup.
She called me a few hours later and wanted me to come to a meeting with her directors that's happening tomorrow. Now I have to decide whether to blow it off, call and cancel, or actually go. I'll let you know what I decide tomorrow night.