"I was asked, "Why shouldn't we hire you?"

I had an interview, and it was going great until they asked me for two reasons why they shouldn't hire me. This question really irritated me, and I lost my confidence as I gave two lame reasons that surely cost me the job.

When it was my turn to ask questions, I asked, "What's the biggest reason I shouldn't choose your company if I get multiple job offers?"

He got a little annoyed and said, "Well, you could stay at your current company if you want." Then he kept saying, "I can't believe you asked that question. Thanks for the chat today, it was nice meeting you, but that last question was a bit weird."

Damn these companies. I don't even want your job.

To be fair, I'm a senior in my current role, and I have about 9 years of experience, so it's not like this is an entry-level position."

Jobadvisor:

You've hit on a frustrating and unfortunately common interview experience. Let's break down why these questions are asked, how you might handle them in the future, and why your reaction (and theirs) is understandable.

Why the "Why Shouldn't We Hire You?" Question?

• Testing Self-Awareness: Interviewers want to see if you can honestly assess your own weaknesses. They're not necessarily looking for deal-breakers, but rather for evidence that you understand your areas for improvement.
• Gauging Honesty and Humility: Someone who claims to have no weaknesses might come across as arrogant or out of touch.
• Assessing Fit: They may be trying to see if your perceived weaknesses align with potential challenges in the role.
• Stress Test: Some interviewers use this to see how you react under pressure.

How to Handle It:

• Frame Weaknesses Positively: Instead of saying, "I'm bad at public speaking," you could say, "While I'm comfortable presenting to small teams, I'm actively working on developing my skills in larger presentations."
• Focus on Development: Emphasize that you're aware of your areas for improvement and are taking steps to address them.
• Keep It Relevant: Choose weaknesses that are minor and don't directly contradict the key requirements of the job.
• Avoid Clichés: Don't use overused responses like "I'm a perfectionist."
• Example responses:
  • "I sometimes get so focused on the details of a project that I need to remind myself to step back and look at the bigger picture. I've been using project management tools to help me stay organized."
  • "I'm still developing my expertise in [specific technology]. I'm taking online courses and working on personal projects to expand my knowledge."

Your "Why Shouldn't I Choose You?" Question:

• Why It's Valid: You're absolutely right that interviews are a two-way street. You're evaluating the company just as much as they're evaluating you.
• Why It Was Received Poorly:
  • Directness: It's a very direct question that can make some interviewers feel defensive.
  • Perceived Negativity: It focuses on potential negatives rather than positives.
  • Unexpectedness: Many interviewers are used to more traditional questions.
• Alternative Phrasing:
  • "What are some of the biggest challenges someone in this role might face?"
  • "What are the company's biggest priorities for the next year, and how might those impact this role?"
  • "What do you feel are the largest obstacles the team is currently facing?"
  • "What are some points of concern that current employees have expressed?"

The Interview Game and Your Frustration:

• You're not alone in feeling frustrated with these types of interview tactics. Many job seekers feel that they're designed to create unnecessary stress and power imbalances.
• Your point about it being a two way street is completely valid.
• The interviewhammer subreddit: While it might be used by some to cheat, it also reflects the desperation many people feel in a competitive job market.

Key Takeaways:

• Interviewing is a skill that requires practice.
• Be prepared for unexpected questions.
• Focus on presenting yourself honestly and confidently.
• Don't be afraid to ask tough questions, but consider the phrasing.
• Remember your value. You have 9 years of experience, and you deserve a role that is a good fit for you.

Would you take a $75000 work from home job or $110,000 in- office job?

Would you take a $75000 work from home job or $110,000 in- office job

Edit: 40min commute one way to office. I’m 26 unmarried and childless. I do have a lot of passions and side projects in mind so wfh is tempting and I’m not really passionate about the industry that either job is in (oil and gas) although it is helpful to have stability in this economy. I also will need a car either way because I need to go out and live life even if I wfh :)

Jobadvisor:

This is a classic "quality of life vs. higher income" dilemma, and your personal circumstances are key. Let's break it down:

Arguments for the $75,000 Work-From-Home Job:

• Time Savings:
  • With a 40-minute commute each way, you'd save 80 minutes daily, or roughly 6.6 hours per week. That's a significant amount of time reclaimed for your side projects, passions, and personal life.
  • This saved time can also translate to reduced stress and increased overall well-being.
• Flexibility and Freedom:
  • Work-from-home offers greater flexibility in managing your schedule and work environment. This can be especially valuable for pursuing side projects and hobbies.
  • You can tailor your workspace to your preferences, leading to increased comfort and productivity.
• Reduced Expenses:
  • While you'll still need a car, you'll save on daily commuting costs (gas, wear and tear, potential tolls).
  • You may also save on work attire and lunches.
• Increased Work/Life Balance:
  • Since you are unmarried and childless, now is the perfect time to work on your passions. WFH allows for a much better work life balance.

Arguments for the $110,000 In-Office Job:

• Higher Income:
  • The $35,000 difference is substantial and can significantly impact your financial goals (savings, investments, paying off debt).
  • In the current economic climate, financial stability is a valid concern.
• Potential for Career Advancement:
  • In-office environments can sometimes offer more opportunities for networking and face-to-face interaction, which can be beneficial for career growth.
  • Depending on the company, there could be more oppertunity for mentorship.
• Structure and Routine:
  • Some individuals thrive in a structured office environment and find it easier to separate work from personal life.
  • It can be easier to stay focused in an office environment.

Considering Your Specific Situation:

• Your Passions and Side Projects:
  • Since you have many passions and side projects, the time savings and flexibility of the work-from-home job are highly valuable. This is a very strong argument for the WFH position.
• Your Age and Lifestyle:
  • At 26, unmarried, and childless, you have the flexibility to prioritize your personal goals and lifestyle. The work-from-home job aligns well with this.
• Industry (Oil and Gas):
  • Since you're not passionate about the industry, the higher income may not fully compensate for the lack of fulfillment.
• Commute:
  • A 40 minute commute each way is a large amount of lost time.
• Car:
  • Since you need a car either way, that cancels out one of the possible benefits of the WFH position.

My Recommendation:

Given your emphasis on passions, side projects, and the significant time savings, the $75,000 work-from-home job is likely the better choice for you. The increased flexibility and time will allow you to invest in your personal growth and potentially generate additional income from your side projects.

However, carefully consider your long-term financial goals and career aspirations. If the $35,000 difference is crucial for your financial security, the in-office job may be worth the trade-off.

Ultimately, the decision is yours. Weigh the pros and cons carefully, and choose the option that aligns best with your values and priorities.

Autistic sex worker unsuccessfully trying to quit sex work. Help?

I'm 32F and I've been a sex worker since I was a teenager so basically this is the only job I've ever had besides cleaner and kitchen help which I don't want to go back to.

I'm autistic and I have really bad anxiety and bad hearing - can't hear anything when lots of people are speaking at the same time, which is why I don't want to go back to kitchen work.

I'm also chronically ill which is the reason why I can't manage to get out of sex work despite having been trying for years and why stuff like farm work is too heavy for me even though I wouldn't mind it.

I need a job where I can work a maximum of 25 hours a week and still make enough money to get by. It's the only way for me to avoid burnout and be able to take days off in case of flareouts. Any suggestions? I have a hs diploma and I'm open to getting any kind of training of up to 1 year, I really need to get out of sex work asap, it's been great in many ways for me but my body can't take it anymore.

I'm extremely organized and punctual and I do very well in one on one interactions (in fact I enjoy them cause I'm very curious about other people's lives) but not at all in group settings (hearing issues + can't read room), I have a very good eye for design but wouldn't know how to actually monetize it though I dress well which makes people notice me and remember me in a positive way, and I have dyscalculia so I can't really work with numbers. Thanks a lot in advance!

Jobadvisor:

It sounds like you're in a challenging situation, and it's admirable that you're seeking a path that prioritizes your well-being. Here's a breakdown of potential job paths, considering your specific needs and strengths:

Leveraging Your Strengths:

• Organization and Punctuality:
  • Virtual Assistant: This role often involves managing schedules, emails, and other administrative tasks. Many virtual assistant jobs are part-time and can be done from home, minimizing sensory overload. You could specialize in a niche that interests you (e.g., assisting writers, artists, or small business owners).  
  • Data Entry (with caveats): While it involves some data management, it can be repetitive and solitary. If you can find a role that doesn't rely heavily on auditory input or complex calculations, it could be a fit. Focus on companies with clear, written instructions.
  • Appointment Setter/Scheduler: Medical offices, salons, or other service-based businesses often need someone to manage appointments. This role leverages your organization and one-on-one communication skills.  
• One-on-One Interactions and Curiosity:
  • Customer Service (Phone or Chat Support): If you can find a role that prioritizes written communication (chat support) or one-on-one phone interactions, it could be a good fit. Look for companies that offer clear scripts and protocols.
  • Personal Assistant/Companion: Assisting an elderly person or someone with disabilities could provide meaningful one-on-one interaction. This type of work often offers flexible hours.
  • Tutoring/Teaching Assistant: If you have expertise in a particular subject, you could offer tutoring services. Or you could work as a teaching assistant in a small, specialized educational setting.
• Eye for Design and Style:
  • Personal Stylist/Wardrobe Consultant (Part-Time): You could start by offering your services to friends and family, then expand to a wider clientele. Social media can be a powerful tool for showcasing your style.
  • Visual Merchandising (Part-Time): Some retail stores hire part-time visual merchandisers to arrange displays and create appealing store layouts.
  • Online Reseller (Clothing/Accessories): If you have an eye for style, you could source and resell clothing or accessories online. This offers flexibility and can be done from home.

Addressing Your Needs:

• Sensory Sensitivity and Hearing Issues:
  • Prioritize remote or work-from-home opportunities.
  • Seek environments with minimal background noise.
  • Communicate your hearing needs to potential employers.
  • Use assistive technology, such as noise-canceling headphones or transcription apps.
• Chronic Illness and Limited Hours:
  • Focus on part-time roles with flexible hours.
  • Look for employers who are understanding of chronic illness.
  • Consider freelance or contract work, which allows for greater control over your schedule.
• Dyscalculia:
  • Avoid roles that require complex calculations or financial management.
  • Focus on jobs that emphasize visual or verbal skills.
  • Use assistive technology, such as calculators or spreadsheets with pre-set formulas.

Training and Resources:

• Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Udemy offer a wide range of affordable online courses in areas such as virtual assistance, customer service, and design.  
• Vocational Rehabilitation Services: Many countries offer vocational rehabilitation programs that provide support and training to individuals with disabilities.  
• Local Community Colleges: Community colleges often offer short-term training programs and certifications in various fields.  
• Job Placement Services: There are job placement services that specialize in helping people with disabilities find suitable employment.  

Steps to Take:

• Identify your transferable skills: Make a list of the skills you've developed through sex work, such as communication, interpersonal skills, and time management.
• Update your resume and cover letter: Highlight your strengths and transferable skills.
• Network: Reach out to friends, family, and online communities for job leads.  
• Consider volunteering: Volunteering can help you gain experience and build your network.
• Be patient and persistent: Finding the right job may take time, but don't give up.

It is very important to seek out any local resources that may be available to you. There are many programs that are designed to help people with disabilities find meaningful work.

Those who commute an hour to work, how do you manage it?

I got a new job and it's a huge advancement in my field and a nice pay raise. However, it is an hour away. (Nothing is ever easy is it?)

I'm not asking advice on if I should do it. I really don't want to but it really is a one time opportunity that I can't pass up. Unfortunately I can't move for another 8 months or so (when my lease is up). So those that do this, thoughts? Advice? Guidance? How do you manage? Do you feel like your day is wasted?

Jobadvisor:

It's understandable that an hour-long commute can feel daunting, especially when you're used to something shorter. However, many people successfully manage and even find ways to make the most of that time. Here's a breakdown of strategies and perspectives that might help:

Reframing the Time:

• "Me" Time:
  • View your commute as dedicated personal time. Use it for activities you enjoy or that contribute to your well-being.
  • This could be a chance to decompress after work or mentally prepare for the day ahead.
• Productive Time:
  • If possible (especially with public transport or hands-free options), use the time for:
    • Listening to audiobooks or podcasts (educational or entertaining).
    • Learning a new language.
    • Planning your day or week.
    • Brainstorming ideas.
    • Catching up on industry news.

Practical Strategies:

• Optimize Your Commute:
  • Timing: If possible, adjust your schedule to avoid peak traffic hours. Even 15 minutes can make a difference.
  • Routes: Explore different routes to find the most efficient and least stressful option.
  • Transportation: If feasible, consider alternative transportation methods like public transit, which might allow you to be more productive.
• Create a Comfortable Environment:
  • Music and Audio: Curate playlists or find podcasts that you enjoy.
  • Comfort: Ensure your car or transportation is comfortable, especially for long periods.
  • Snacks and Drinks: Keep healthy snacks and drinks on hand to avoid getting hungry or dehydrated.
• Mental Well-being:
  • Mindfulness: Practice mindfulness or meditation to reduce stress. ¹  
    1. Meditation Programs for Psychological Stress and Well-being: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

    

    pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  • Breaks: If driving, take short breaks when needed to stretch or rest.
  • Positive Mindset: Focus on the positive aspects of your new job and the opportunities it presents.

Addressing the "Wasted Time" Feeling:

• It's common to feel like commuting is a waste of time. However, by intentionally using that time, you can minimize that feeling.
• Remember that even relaxing and de-stressing during your commute is a valuable use of time.
• It is also important to remember that this is a temporary situation, until your lease is up.

Key Considerations:

• Safety: Always prioritize safety, especially when driving. Avoid distractions and stay alert.
• Flexibility: Be prepared for unexpected delays and adjust your schedule accordingly.

Ultimately, how you manage your commute depends on your individual preferences and circumstances. By being proactive and finding ways to make the time work for you, you can minimize the negative impact and even turn it into a positive experience.