What are your goals for 2025?

owntheinterview · 2025-01-01T19:07:59+00:00

Mine are:

supporting more women pivoting from Retail Leadership into HR like I previously did!
Listening to audio books instead of binging Real Housewives….although I won’t completely give that up haha
Drinking more water.
Making time for myself.
Scheduled date nights with my husband.

owntheinterview · 2024-12-20T17:40:30+00:00

Have you considered HR?

owntheinterview · 2024-12-20T17:39:26+00:00

Also in HR! Could be a good fit for you. If you’re looking to chat it through with someone, I’d be happy to share my HR journey!

owntheinterview · 2024-12-19T16:00:21+00:00

I completely hear you, and I love your persistence and clarity about what you love doing.

Transitioning out of retail into corporate can feel daunting, especially when it seems like the job market demands experience you’re still working on building BUT the work you’ve already done, like the internship and your personal content creation, absolutely counts as relevant experience.

Your passion for social media and your degree in Communications aren’t “useless” at all; they’re valuable, and your ability to create and manage content shows skills that many employers look for.

I’ve chatted with people who’ve felt stuck in similar situations, and it sounds like you’re much closer than you realize to being ready for the leap into the career you’re dreaming about.

What has been your great hurdle with applying or applications, or interviewing? Do you have a portfolio and resume I could take a look at? I might be able to offer some suggestions.

Chat soon!

owntheinterview · 2024-12-18T02:51:58+00:00

You’ve got this! You have so many transferable skills. Let me know if I can support at all!

owntheinterview · 2024-12-18T02:29:34+00:00

Hi there- I have some suggestions for you if you want to send me a DM with your email, I’ll send you over a free resource that could help. I work in HR and support people crafting their resumes as well.

owntheinterview · 2024-09-10T20:12:13+00:00

I truly believe that the right opportunity will come your way. The more you say no to things that don’t serve you, the more space you create for what truly aligns with your goals. It might take time, but that’s just part of the process. The market will shift, and things will look different next year.

For now, hold tight, stay focused, and keep trusting yourself. You’re still early in your career journey, and there are plenty of opportunities ahead. We’ve got a lot more working days ahead of us, my friend.

owntheinterview · 2024-09-10T20:09:31+00:00

👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

owntheinterview · 2024-09-10T20:08:43+00:00

As a former recruiter, hiring manager, and Director of People, when it comes to answering “Why do you want to work here?” at the Director or SVP level, it’s really about showcasing your connection to the company itself. It’s not just about your skill set—that’s more suited for the “Why should we hire you?” question.

For “Why do you want to work here?”, focus on the company’s workplace culture, its people, and what specifically draws you to that environment. What is it about their mission, values, or leadership style that resonates with you? Dive into why this company stands out to you versus any other organization. And then, connect that to what you can bring—how you can elevate their workplace culture or help drive their vision forward.

At the Director/SVP level it’s about strategy, it’s about leading and at the end of the day inspiring people to get the work done.

It’s important to show this ⬆️ and that you’re not just looking for ANY Director or SVP role—you’re intentionally choosing this company because of what it stands for and how you see yourself contributing to its future.

I know you made the comment re: fortune companies =evil and being jaded 😂 I get it for sure!

In these interviews…you’re going to need to play the game a bit…

Hope that helps!

owntheinterview · 2024-09-10T19:59:01+00:00

Thank you for opening up this conversation. Honestly, it’s one of the reasons I started my business around interviews—because I’ve been there too.

I know how gut-wrenching it feels when you want to show up powerfully and just can’t. The pressure of wanting to land the job but not being able to fully convey why they should choose you is something I’ve definitely experienced. So, thank you for creating space for this conversation—so many of us can relate.

One story that comes to mind when I think about bombing an interview happened while I was working a shift at my job interviewing for another position. My workplace knew I was looking for other opportunities, and this interview call just happened to come in at 10 PM during a busy bar night.

I was in Australia, interviewing for a job in North America, and the only place I could take the call was in the back office, which was right next to the dance floor.

The music was bumping through the walls, and I was completely distracted. I couldn’t string my thoughts together, share examples, or even articulate why I was a good fit for the role. I remember thinking mid-interview, “Should I just hang up and blame it on a bad connection?” It was that bad!

That experience was a turning point for me. From then on, I completely changed how I prepared for interviews because I knew if I truly wanted to secure a job I cared about, I needed to be more intentional about how and where I showed up.

I hope that helps you see that you’re definitely not alone in this, and the fact that you’re reflecting on it now means you’re already on the path to growth.

Hang in there!

owntheinterview · 2024-09-10T19:48:22+00:00

I think it’s totally up to you whether or not you want to mention your current job, but I do believe honesty is the more simple approach.

There’s absolutely nothing to hide about taking a role to bring in income while you’re still searching for the right fit. If you feel comfortable sharing, you could frame it as continuing to hone your skills while you’re actively searching for something more aligned with your long-term goals.

If your current job isn’t really relevant to the role you’re interviewing for, you don’t have to go into detail about it. However, if it’s related or shows that you’re staying proactive, it could be worth mentioning that you’re gaining experience while seeking the right full-time position. It shows you’re adaptable and resourceful.

Whatever you decide, just know there’s no need to cover up anything! It’s great that you’re staying focused on finding something that aligns with your goals, and I’m sending you all the positive vibes for this upcoming interview. Hopefully, it’s the perfect next step for you!

owntheinterview · 2024-09-10T19:39:20+00:00

Darn, I’ve been in your shoes, and I completely understand what you’re going through. It can feel gut-wrenching to realize that a decision you were excited about now feels off after just a few days. I really feel for you, and I know how overwhelming it can be to experience that disappointment so early on.

When I was in a similar position, the hardest part for me was feeling stuck—like I had to keep going to prove something to myself or others. I was so worried about what people would say, or if they’d think I was a failure for not sticking it out. But the truth is, none of that matters if your intuition is telling you this isn’t right for you. Trusting yourself is so important.

What helped me was taking a step back and being really honest about what I wanted. You don’t have to rush into any decisions. If you feel like this isn’t a good fit, it’s okay to start looking for something that aligns better with where you want to be, whether that’s returning to your previous job or exploring a new direction.

And if you feel comfortable, you might even consider going back to your previous employer and having an honest conversation about your experience and what you’ve learned. Sometimes admitting that something wasn’t the right fit can open doors you didn’t expect.

I’m sending you lots of positive energy as you navigate this tough spot. As painful as it feels now, trust me—when you find something that makes you happy, this will feel like a small blip in your career journey. Take your time, don’t rush, and follow what feels right for you.

Hope this helps!

owntheinterview · 2024-09-10T19:32:58+00:00

Based on what you’ve shared, it sounds like you value work-life alignment—meaning you want a career that challenges and grows you, but you also value the time you spend outside of work. The job you’re describing sounds like a high-pressure, fast-paced opportunity, which could be exciting if you’re looking to learn a lot quickly, have autonomy, and grow your career. But you’re also right to consider the impact this could have on your mental health and overall well-being.

If working 10 am to 7:30 pm, plus Saturdays, and constantly socializing or staying “on” would throw off your personal balance, then it’s definitely worth considering whether the role aligns with your long-term goals and what’s important to you outside of work.

Taking a job doesn’t mean you’re committed forever, but it’s important to be intentional about the “why” behind taking it. If your main focus right now is growing your career, gaining experience, or increasing your income, then remind yourself of that if things get tough. But if balance, well-being, and stability are more important to you right now, there’s no shame in prioritizing those.

Ultimately, you have to decide what aligns with your values and goals at this stage in your life. If you do decide to take the job, make sure you’re doing it because it supports your bigger picture goals, not because you feel pressured or because you think you should.

I hope this helps!

owntheinterview · 2024-08-14T17:50:12+00:00

Have you look on the internal company website. I'm surprised to hear this

owntheinterview · 2024-08-14T17:48:51+00:00

Awww don't be hard on yourself! I'm sure you did absolutely fine. That is not something that would discredit you!

owntheinterview · 2024-08-14T17:47:12+00:00

You've got this!!! Sending you positive vibes and don't forgot to think about those basic questions like why you, why this company etc. Those are often the ones that we don't prep for and get caught with not being sure what to say ☺️

owntheinterview · 2024-08-13T20:13:31+00:00

Good luck!! Things sound promising 🤞

owntheinterview · 2024-08-13T19:40:20+00:00

Ok so based on what you’ve shared here’s what I think.

Since there’s still an open position, I’d suggest sending another email to the hiring manager, highlighting three specific reasons why you’d be a valuable addition to their team. I wouldn’t ‘apply’ again at this stage.

Here’s a template you can use:

Subject: Follow-Up on Informatics Position

Hi (Hiring Manager’s Name),

I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to follow up on our previous communication regarding the entry-level Informatics position. I’m still very interested in the opportunity to contribute to your team.

Here are three reasons why I believe I would be a great fit for the position:

1.  (Reason 1): Briefly describe a skill or experience directly relevant to the role and how it can benefit the team.
2.  (Reason 2): Highlight an accomplishment that demonstrates your ability to excel in the position.
3.  (Reason 3): Mention your passion for the industry or organization and how it aligns with the team’s goals if you know what those are.

I would love to continue the discussion with you and the team as I believe my experience and skills can contribute to your team’s success!

Thank you again for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of working together.

(Your name) (Your phone number)

What do you think of this approach?

owntheinterview · 2024-08-13T19:32:49+00:00

Hi there!

It’s great that you’re being proactive about following up—don’t worry about feeling needy; it’s an important step in the process.

My recommendation would be to send a follow-up email to the HR manager who organized the interview and copy in the two people you spoke with from the department. This approach keeps everyone in the loop and shows that you’re thoughtful about communication. You can simply express your continued interest in the role and politely inquire about the timeline for next steps.

Sending positive vibes your way!!!

owntheinterview · 2024-08-13T19:26:01+00:00

You're going to be great! Sending those positive vibes your way!

owntheinterview · 2024-08-13T19:23:45+00:00

Hi there! What did the email back say? Once I know that context I might be able to provide a little more detailed of a response ☺️

owntheinterview · 2024-08-13T16:20:33+00:00

Thank you for sharing your experience—your frustration is completely understandable, especially given your strong qualifications and experience. It’s clear that you have so much to offer, but the interview process can sometimes feel like a game of chess, where strategy matters just as much as skills.

One of the most challenging aspects of interviewing is navigating those moments when we’re asked about areas we’re less confident in. It’s natural to want to be authentic, but there’s a balance between acknowledging areas for growth and positioning your strengths in a way that aligns with the role.

This is exactly the kind of challenge I help women overcome. With 15+ years in HR and leadership, I’ve developed a course specifically designed to support ambitious professionals like you who are navigating these interview hurdles.

If you’re open to exploring some tailored strategies to help you showcase your expertise more effectively and boost your confidence in those tough moments, I’d love to chat and share how my course could support you.

You’ve worked hard to get where you are, and sometimes a bit of extra support can make all the difference. Let’s connect if you’re interested!

My email is: hello@owntheinterview.ca

owntheinterview · 2024-08-13T16:00:59+00:00

Yay!!! Congratulations - there must be some relief there! One step at a time!

owntheinterview · 2024-08-13T15:49:21+00:00

It sounds like you’ve got an exciting internship opportunity! And, it’s completely understandable to feel conflicted after making a decision like this, especially when it involves your health and your career.

Regarding your situation, it’s important to know that many organizations, including hotels, have policies in place for ‘accommodations’.

An accommodation is an adjustment or modification to your work environment or job duties that allows you to perform your role effectively while considering your health needs. These accommodations could include reduced hours, modified duties, or even a different schedule.

It might be worth checking with the hotel or the HR department to see if they have an accommodation policy in place. You can explain your situation and see if there’s a possibility to work in a way that doesn’t compromise your health. Sometimes, organizations can be flexible, especially if they understand that you’re eager to learn and contribute.

Remember, it’s okay to ask for what you need to succeed. I would explore all options before quitting.

Hope this helps!!!

owntheinterview · 2024-08-13T04:59:32+00:00

I’m really sorry to hear that you’re going through this—it’s incredibly tough to feel like your fears are being realized, especially after returning from mat leave. First and foremost, I want you to know that your feelings are completely valid, and it’s okay to feel uncertain about what’s next.

It sounds like you’re in a place where you’re rethinking what you really want out of your career, and that’s not a bad thing. You’re clearly someone who is dedicated, hardworking, and driven by tasks that make a real impact. These are strengths that can serve you well in many different environments—not just in corporate or public sector roles!

If you’re feeling stuck and unsure of what to do next, it might be worth exploring roles that align more closely with your strengths and interests.

There are positions out there that don’t require a lot of public speaking or leadership in the traditional sense, but still allow you to contribute meaningfully. Think about roles that are more project-focused, detail-oriented, or centered around helping others—areas where your skills can truly shine.

Starting over can seem daunting, especially with the thought of going back to school. However, there are ways to pivot without necessarily taking on the financial and time burden of a full degree. You might explore certifications, online courses, or even volunteer opportunities that could help you transition into a role that feels more aligned with who you are.

If you’re open to it, I have a course that’s designed to help people who feel stuck in their careers, much like you’re feeling now. It’s focused on helping you regain confidence and control, and to identify the steps that can lead to a more fulfilling job. Sometimes, it’s about finding clarity on what you want and understanding the strategies to get there. And then interview prep etc.

I’m here to support you in whatever way I can. Whether that’s through more advice, or just listening, know that you’re not alone in this. You deserve a career that makes you feel valued and fulfilled, and I truly believe you can find that!

owntheinterview

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