Don’t be Frivolous: Focus on the Job, Not the Life
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“He’s frivolous.”



I was in my early 20s and had already worked for a government contractor when I had a big-time job opportunity come available at the leading multinational technology and consulting company. Two words described this opportunity—launch pad.



While you figure out that name brand company, I’ll also add that the opportunity was stellar for someone starting out and the pay was good. Based on my degree and technical experience, I was qualified for the job. However, during the interview process, I blew the chance!




If we’re speaking metaphorically, I’d liken what happened next to a promising baseball player who just got called up. And while at bat, he gets lucky and pops a triple, but gets a little too cocky rounding second and on the way to third base—he trips!



I was hyper-prepared for the interview. I knew about the company, the role, my qualifications, and how I could contribute to the team from day one. There were a few job requirements I would need to stretch to fulfill, but one thing I wasn’t lacking was the confidence that “being there” was 90 percent of the job and the rest I’d figure out. How’s that for clueless bravado?



During the five-person panel interview with seasoned leaders (they were all at least 10 years my senior), I took every question and answered it proactively with clear-cut examples of my abilities. I was in the interview zone. I looked each person in the eye and succinctly addressed their questions and concerns. I was congenial, but one point.



Then I got cocky.



As I was masterfully owning the room and clearly demonstrating how I would tackle each job challenge and add value, I tripped on my own shoestrings. At the end of the interview, when I felt I had it locked up, I was asked this simple question. “Do you have any questions for us?”



And that little voice inside my head said, “Oh, no, I don’t have questions, so just wing it.” I blurted out, “Is there a gym on campus so I can keep in shape?” And, “Does the team like to go to happy hour?” Yes, I’m ashamed to say that my brain disconnected with my mouth, and those words came out.



Mentally, I was coming to grips with having to dive straight into long hours at the grey cubicle-wonderland that was this massive conglomerate. I suddenly was more concerned about the lifestyle it would offer. And I didn’t even have the offer yet. I lost my bearings on what was most important. Get the offer first.



I shook hands and wished people well, but not without noticing that a key decision-maker (the only guy) on the panel gave me a handshake with a weak grip and diverted his eyes. In an instant, I realized I may have been tagged out sliding into third.



Later that day, I got a call and luckily an offer to be a contractor. Thank goodness. I took the gig. It wasn’t until months later that my main client told me that I almost didn’t get the job. Why? Because, I was unprepared to answer that simple question and the guy on the panel didn’t want to extend the offer. His impression of me, based on my answers, was summed in two words:



“He’s frivolous.”



I eventually earned his trust, and we did great work together. But it was his blunt, but poignant feedback that I carry to this day.



During an interview, always focus on the job, not the life.



This article was first featured on OnlineCareerTips.com