A confidence booster!!

The day after Labour day, I went for an interview with a top-notch hotel and I was really nervous. First of all, I was quite surprised that they actually called me up to see them. I started to feel inadequate that my job experience and skills doesn’t match what they are looking for. Was seriously considering calling them up and not going. However, I went in the end as it’s too good a chance to give up. Of course, I prayed to God to help me if this is the job meant for me and to know that if I do my best, He will do the rest.

So early that morning at 8.30am, I went with trepidation. The first stage was a written test. I was kind of just expecting either a grammar test or a brochure writing test but little did I expect a marketing communications “exam”. There were at least 20 candidates in the cold and freezing ballroom and everyone was extremely serious. It did not help that the hotel staff were all in uniform and very well-groomed and well, serious. Thank goodness I wore a suit. I saw one candidate with a tube top. That’s kind of crazy, even for a written test. Anyway the paper had questions to test your knowledge on the hotel, photo critique, translation, how to write a press release, media invitation and lastly an advertising & promotions suggestion. I took about an hour plus but when I left, there were still more candidates writing frenetically. It was a really challenging test and showcased what aspects the marketing communications executive will face.

Ok, that’s the first stage. Very exhaustive. I felt I would flunk it given that I never done some of the abovementioned tasks before. Must start learning.

Then the HR person said they will assess the written tests and call you back in the afternoon to meet the director of marketing communications. Wow, I was kept in suspense the time I finished the test till after lunch, when they called me. The suspense was killing me and I kept on praying to God that I have impressed them and that I will make it through to the second round. At about 2.45pm, I finally received a call from the hotel. Good news!!! I was one of the 6 candidates shortlisted and they made me rush back to the hotel for an interview half hour later. Oh well. If you really want the job. I was over the moon when I heard the good news and kept thanking God.

Yet as I traveled to the hotel, I started to feel nervous again and doubtful of my own abilities. Nonetheless, I gritted my teeth and went through the interview, asking God to bring me through it and leave the outcome in His hands. I did not answer some questions properly so I really don’t know how it will turn out. In addition, circumstances may not favour me as the director is due to give birth super soon and needs someone fast. She will not be there personally to coach the person as well. Hmm… In any case, thank goodness, she said she was impressed with what I wrote. At least that boosts my confidence somewhat. However, I only have a 16% chance (100/6)!!! Ok, pray pray pray.