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Had an in person screening interview.

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Ellen Idler

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Had an in person screening interview. I’m very qualified for the role and also had a reference from someone inside the company. At the end the recruiter asked if I was interviewing with anyone else. I was laid off at the end of July, so I thought that seemed like an odd question, but maybe a good sign. I answered honestly “yes” along with different things I was looking for in my next role. Then I was asked what I’ve been doing during this time. I was very caught off guard because I’ve never been asked that. What was she looking for with this question? I told her I was reading a lot, reconnecting with friends, listening to podcasts, and trying to learn something new every day, and networking 24/7. All of the above true. I could have also shared that I planned a fundraiser at the Highschool, learned to play Canasta, and taught myself to needlepoint. ( also true). I’m thinking the second answer would’ve been better. At the same time, I’m irritated by the question. I feel like that should not be a consideration but mad at myself that I wasn’t prepared for it. I was disappointed to get the email that my application is not going any further. Thoughts ?

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  1. Anonymous

    Candidly, I'm a bit surprised that you're surprised by these questions! You had an employment gap and the recruiter was looking for info on what you've done to keep your knowledge base fresh during this time of unemployment.

    Maybe you're irritated with yourself for not being prepared but this one is NOT on the recruiter. Learn from the experience, have a scripted answer handy in future interviews, and move on.

  2. Anonymous

    Totally agree with your answer. I recruited a ton of people that had gaps. If you're not working towards the greater good of your professional journey, it's much harder for the hiring manager to be convinced you would fit their team. The recruiter has to convince them of your skills.

  3. Anonymous

    I'm a former recruiter. That is a fair question and asked all the time. It signifies to the recruiter how serious you are about finding your next job. Or how you are trying to improve upon your skills to make yourself more workforce ready. Part of our jobs as candidates is to promote oneself. I think using the high school fundraiser would have been and is a fantastic way to say, hey, I'm not home eating bon bons, I'm trying to make a difference out there. It's not an easy task either. For now, keep the trying to find yourself or new hobbies out of the equation, but instead, use work related items as your top priority. When I was seeking and asked this, my mind thought, I've been in bed watching reality tv and eating bon bons. But that wouldn't go over, so I amped up what I was doing professionally. That actually works best. Do self study in your field, free classes on LinkedIn, etc. Don't worry, there's a job there for you, but your declination may have had nothing to do with your answer. The market is highly competitive at the moment and it's a candy store for recruiters.

  4. Ellen Idler

    This was super helpful. Thanks !

  5. Anonymous

    I have always been told that every single question during an interview should be answered only in terms of the job/your profession. It's not about spending time with friends, it's about networking, building skills, etc. Even 'how are you today?' is an opportunity to say 'Very excited to be here, hear more about the position and tell you how my skills fit the role.'

  6. Anonymous

    Don't regret a thing. You led with authenticity, honesty and a personal glimpse into who you are. It was perfect.

  7. Anonymous

    Please don't run yourself in circles trying to determine the what-if of a situation like this. As others have said, it's a hard job market right now, and their decision not to move forward with your application might not have anything to do with your answer or your application other than, for whatever reason, you were not as good a fit as someone else. If you were laid off in late in July, you actually haven't even been out of work that long, even though I'm sure it feels that way, especially considering how much interviewing and hiring slows down in December. There is something out there for you. I think you're doing a lot to advance yourself and your career (including the self-reflection), but you will not be well served in your search trying to figure out the answer to something unknowable.

  8. Ellen Idler

    Thanks so much for this helpful answer.

  9. Jessica Ferland

    Some things you don't get to know, like whether the other answer would have made an impact. If you are comfortable, reach out to request feedback. That could be very insightful.

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