Heartbroken as I spent over a week preparing for two Zoom interviews that were impacted my neighbor's construction.

Anonymous

August 25,2022 at 4:35PM UTC

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Heartbroken as I spent over a week preparing for two Zoom interviews today that were impacted my neighbor's construction.

If I'd known it was going to happen, I would have made other arrangements. As it was, minutes before my interviews started, a chainsaw roared.

I quickly assessed what was the quietest area in the house and reset my space. The only problem, that spot had the weakest signal and throughout the call, it kept freezing, everyone was talking over each other and I couldn't hear the questions. I did my best but I had back-to-back interviews and while I moved to a better signaled area for the second one, it was a louder spot with chainsaws and construction workers using my yard as overflow.

I'm not working right now so these interviews were extremely important and while I'm frustrated, I'm more upset that I could tell I wouldn't be moving on in the process. The first ones said the dreaded the position was still open and they were accepting applications and the second was mostly disgusted. I apologized but I wasn't sure what else to do. There wasn't anywhere else I could go to in the area without any notice.

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AnonymousAugust 25,2022 at 5:14PM UTC
I'm sorry about this. It sucks but all you can do is move on. Try and restart your search and keep putting one foot in front of the other. Remember you can't control everything. Stuff happens.
AnonymousAugust 25,2022 at 6:44PM UTC
Can you tell the employers about the unexpected noise problem and reschedule the interviews?
Going forward, can you let your neighbor know about your important calls in advance so that noisy equipment can be turned off? This is important if your neighbor’s construction project is ongoing.
Finally, has your neighbor’s contractor gotten the needed permits for the work being performed? The chainsaw might violate a local noise ordinance.
AnonymousAugust 26,2022 at 12:24PM UTC
This is not the neighbor's responsibility. The neighbor has the right to do what they want on their property. Last year I had a major construction project and I let my closest neighbor know. But I never would have stopped work due to their interview.
AnonymousAugust 28,2022 at 2:27AM UTC
Good that you let your neighbor know about the noise.
I think a request to neighbor is reasonable as the crew might be able to modify its schedule for the hour or two needed for the interview so that especially loud noise does not interfere with a neighbor’s important call.
FWIW, the crew on a recent home improvement program of mine was able to reduce noise to accommodate at home phone calls. This is not an impossible ask and it often can be implemented without affecting project timing.
AnonymousAugust 29,2022 at 3:11PM UTC
My neighbor helped for 1h to accommodate my interview schedule
we have the best neighbors!
AnonymousAugust 29,2022 at 12:22PM UTC
A noise ordinance would probably not cover a chainsaw being used for construction during the day. It is to be expected that when work is going on there will be noise from
machinery.
AnonymousAugust 30,2022 at 5:35AM UTC
You might be right, but my city’s noise ordinance does *not* contain language exempting construction projects.
Could be that the construction permit addresses noise issues.
JJAugust 25,2022 at 7:39PM UTC
Oh heavens that sounds awful. I really hope they were not mean to you. Life happens. Sounds like it was awkward but not your fault. It’s just one of those things that you’ll have to assume that you will laugh about it someday. Applying for jobs is exhausting. Try to forget it and move on. <3
AnonymousAugust 25,2022 at 10:28PM UTC
Don't overwhelm yourself with regret etc and don't spend too much energy try to win back the interest.
If you earned 2 interviews, you will earn many more.
AnonymousAugust 26,2022 at 8:27AM UTC
You did not have earbuds? My air conditioning is loud to where I can’t hear my colleagues. They make earbuds with a speaker on the wire so you can speak into it and it clears outside nose. Real cheap on amazon
AnonymousAugust 26,2022 at 12:26PM UTC
For my last interview I had to record answers to questions before I went to the F2F interview. I went to my public library for that session just to make sure there were no unexpected interruptions. It worked out well!
Gretchen SkalkaAugust 26,2022 at 2:03PM UTC
noise cancelling headphones or earbuds.
My dog has an uncanny sense of timing.
Zoom or Google Meet starts and he's all Barky Bark and the Funky Bunch for no reason.
With headphones or earbuds - no one is the wiser.
:)
AnonymousAugust 26,2022 at 7:33PM UTC
Thank you all! I appreciated your advice and I'm moving forward. It's disappointing as I thought one of the interviews had a lot of potential.
In my last job, while working from home I used noise cancelling headphones but they had a strange delay and affect on other callers. I was asked not to use them so I didn't want to chance it during the call.
It wasn't only the noise but the construction effected the connection. The construction team kept hitting the phone and cable lines interfering with the connection.
It would have been one thing if the interviewers were understanding as things happen. Unfortunately, they were condescending, curt and continued to go about their business even though they could tell the call wasn't working. Oh well, it's disappointing but time to move on...
Lynda Birmantas BeamAugust 29,2022 at 12:26PM UTC
If the interviewers acted like that over something that is clearly not your fault then perhaps you dodged a bullet.
AnonymousAugust 29,2022 at 3:08PM UTC
This happened to me recently
i wasn’t working for 1 year therefore i was stressed and wanted the interview to work.
i ran outside to let the workers know. They were sympathetic & said it was close to their lunch time anyway ?
after that they did low impact minimum house stuff.
i addressed it at the beginning of the interviews “i planned for the interview spot but didn’t anticipate the neighbours construction”
they were very understanding and I progressed to second interview phase ??
also, i called my local library that has an area for this. Helps me know i have options if needed
Kerry RoperAugust 29,2022 at 5:42PM UTC
In this situation, I am assuming you gave yourself at least a full half hour pre-game time. This is really "all you can control". This really is the easiest way, the fact of the matter is, they are interviewing you but they are also taking a hard look at your technical and remote working skills.
AnonymousAugust 29,2022 at 12:20PM UTC
So sorry to hear that this happened.
Have you considered installing noise-cancelling software? I have a dog, and no one can hear when there is barking. There are free versions available.
Good luck with your job search
AnonymousAugust 29,2022 at 1:11PM UTC
let's remember she is job hunting...money may not be available to buy noise canceling software....let's be realistic.
Jason LeeAugust 29,2022 at 6:49PM UTC
Yes-- but same can be said with the traditional style in-office interviews where candidates were expected to wear a clean suit, nice watch, and a briefcase.
And a business suit is way more expensive than noise-canceling software.
Lisa BlackwellAugust 29,2022 at 12:25PM UTC
Hi,
From the interviewers perspective, I would expect the interviewee to have thought about a quite space with good wi-fi before you got on the call. If the interviews are important take those extra little steps to ensure a smooth process so you can concentrate on highlighting your gifts during the interview. Despite the best planning sometimes unexpected things happen that are out of your control. Try to control the things you can like finding an optimal space for your next interview.
Good luck :)
Alice Frazeur HostlerAugust 29,2022 at 12:32PM UTC
From the interviewers perspective.....are you kidding me?! Where/What else was she to go and to do? If she would have known the neighbor was going to have a construction crew at there house I'm sure she would have made other arrangements like she said she would have. She was able to control all the things she could control. Do you happen to live under a rock?
AnonymousAugust 29,2022 at 12:57PM UTC
Where is the empathy in this response? You basically blamed the interviewee for someone else creating a noisy situation that they were not anticipating. The best planning in the world cannot account for unexpected construction the day of the interview. If you were the interviewer, it sounds like you are judging the candidate too harshly on non-job related qualifications, such as their ability to read their neighbor's mind and somehow avoid the unexpected and unplanned construction. #MoreEmpathy
AnonymousAugust 29,2022 at 1:10PM UTC
Wow...way to blame the interviewee! Glad I never interviewed with you. Life happens, unexpected situations happen, even the best planning cannot change that fact. Control has absolutely nothing to do with the unexpected...as humans we only have some much control...unexpected is not one of those things. That is like saying being rear-ended is something you should plan for and be in control of when you are not driving the other persons car! Realistically, it just best to explain the situation and hope that the interviewers are human enough and remember what it is like job hunting and interviewing to be empathetic.
Kerry RoperAugust 29,2022 at 5:39PM UTC
Well, now that you're mentioning it, if I were the interviewer of you, and saw that the word "quite" was used where you meant "quiEt" would certainly mean your resume would land in the trash can. Ten to fifteen min of prep time is what I always give myself if I am the person being interviewed, and allows for (most) any unexpected interruptions. So, yeah, the spell check function...use it.
Carolyn MillerAugust 29,2022 at 12:25PM UTC
The library in the town where I live has conference rooms available to the public. When my significant other was interviewing last summer, he used this as an option, as we live across the street from a town park. The internet signal is great & he was in a quiet space. It may be worth looking into. Wishing you best of luck.
AnonymousAugust 29,2022 at 12:30PM UTC
What a timing and unlucky situation !
I am sure more opportunity will come around when you can make sure you are using your learnings ....
It was not meant to be but next time I would explain the situation and ask them to reschedule. This also tells you about the company and its culture too....
best of luck !
Christina WheelerAugust 29,2022 at 12:31PM UTC
A couple things:
Believe it or not, if something like this happens in the future, it may be good to acknowledge it and show that you're not stressed about it. Just appear relaxed and say something like "I apologize, my neighbors are doing some unexpected construction today. I hope the noise isn't bothering you; I am very interested in hearing more about your company and how I may fit in". This shows that you can handle yourself well with distractions, which happens in the office. They want someone who can figure out a way to work around some unexpected stress, and that is the perfect opportunity to show that.
Second, I have hired people before who had a less-than-perfect interview. I even brought one woman back in for a second interview because, even though she was clearly flustered and did not do well from a purely "was this a good interview" standpoint, I saw something in her that made me think she'd be a good fit. I knew she felt she had flubbed the interview--I saw it in her face. I called her and said "sometimes people don't interview well but I'd really like another chance to speak with you if you're still looking for another job". And she turned out to be a great employee.
If they were bothered by it and you've got a bad feeling from the experience, they aren't the employers for you. Keep plugging away and you'll find the right fit.
AnonymousAugust 29,2022 at 12:36PM UTC
What I've done for important situations such as these is retreat to my vehicle in the garage. Cars mute a lot of sound IJS.
I agree with all the other comments too. Don't b flustered!
Nicolette ThompsonAugust 29,2022 at 4:36PM UTC
Same! It’s easy enough to explain as well, you can’t control your neighbors but you can make things work out in a pinch.
Mara Jevera FulmerAugust 29,2022 at 12:37PM UTC
I’m sorry you had to deal with this experience. These days, with virtual meetings becoming standard, things happen that are going to be outside your control. I’ve chaired virtual meetings from my home office only to have my husband decide that’s the time he wants to play with one of his motorized toys outside my window. So I feel your pain.
I’ll add to what others have already suggested. Some libraries have study rooms you can reserve for practicing presentations, interviews, or group study. Colleges, such as where I work, make them available to help students. But they’re also available to the public. Plus, local public libraries may have something similar. And they also have pretty strong Wi-Fi, so there’s that!
I’d also invest in a good quality set of noise canceling earbuds and practice using them. This has helped me get past those moments when hubby decides it’s time to get the leaf blower out and clear the driveway next to my window, lol.
The folks who were interviewing you displayed their true colors and lack of flexibility when something doesn’t go perfectly. Perhaps you dodged one there. Believe me, someday you’ll laugh about this. But in the meantime just learn from it and move on. There’s an even better job out there for you.
Donna BrookerAugust 29,2022 at 12:39PM UTC
What a shame. The flexible world we live in today requires more empathy and understanding. I have colleagues living in apartment blocks. If a neighbour suddenly starts construction work, they don't stand a chance - and it has happened. My dog regularly barks when he should not!
If you have connected with the interviewers to explain and have not successfully secured an alternative interview date, I would put it down to experience and don't lose heart - many great companies are hiring right now. You don't say what role you are applying for, but please feel free to take a look at Autodesk's open roles. https://www.autodesk.com/careers/overview
Good luck with your search.
Best regards
Donna
AnonymousAugust 29,2022 at 12:40PM UTC
I am sorry this happened. I agree with some other post if I was interviewing you. Address your concerns in the beginning, acknowledging that you know it may be disruptive. HOWEVER, I also rarely expect a zoom interview to go perfect and give grace for the unexpected.
Good luck in your continued search
AnonymousAugust 29,2022 at 12:45PM UTC
If the interviewers can't understand and have empathy for your situation, then they don't deserve your talents. Any great employer would gladly be able to accommodate a different date/time so you could complete the interview process without any outside interruptions.
Laura Ann KleinAugust 30,2022 at 1:05AM UTC
especially given how resourceful she was at the last minute!
AnonymousAugust 29,2022 at 1:14PM UTC
This really sucks, I have had zoom interviews or teams interviews where there was some noise or the signal went out or the camera does not come on while you cannot control everything , I purchased a pair of head phones for my virtual interviews they do help quite a bit and there is a setting in teams at least where it can filter out some background noise
If you can invest in a good headset that should help some , the o Lu you can do is try to be prepared for the unexpected don’t be discouraged life happens ! Move on to the next job maybe send an email saying your sorry the interview had such issues etc you love the company and would appreciate a second chance to interview it can’t hurt , try to come up with a plan sans a plan b should tis happen again in the future
good luck ! Don’t be discouraged ! You got this
Jennifer WuolletAugust 29,2022 at 1:16PM UTC
I had to do an interview in a phone booth on a boat offshore in Trinidad once. I apologized, explained the situation and that there was a 5 second lag. It wasn't great but I survived. I lost the job to someone who had 10 more years of experience than I did but the feedback was that I interviewed well. Sometimes shining in the face of adversity works out ok. I hope you get one of the jobs.
AnonymousAugust 29,2022 at 1:58PM UTC
so whenever you have a job interview, you knock on your neighbor's door to make sure they're not planning any construction? as part of your "due diligence"? lol give me a break, this could have happened to anyone. don't be rude.
AnonymousAugust 29,2022 at 2:09PM UTC
you're an a**hole
Lori Laurito BetzAugust 29,2022 at 2:23PM UTC
Better be careful, the fall from that high horse you’re on is pretty steep…brave anonymous poster.
DL RossAugust 29,2022 at 2:57PM UTC
Zoom and Teams do have an option for you to suppress outside noise.
It makes it nearly impossible to hear all that outside noise. Try it next time, and also remember- planning for the unexpected won't throw you off an interview. I've had snafus, but I've always bounced back to the best of my capabilities and didn't let it phase me. Interviews are too important to think that everything will go off without a hitch. Good luck next time!
Carol BaldwinAugust 29,2022 at 3:04PM UTC
As an interviewer I would have suggested we choose another date that works better for your situation
Laura Ann KleinAugust 30,2022 at 1:04AM UTC
NOW that's grace (and I would want to work for your organization)
Michelle SiskoAugust 29,2022 at 4:39PM UTC
I always use a headset on my video and teleconferences. You would be surprised how much background noise that cuts out, but even better when they are noise canceling. Mine are wireless and I have long hair, so a lot of times, no one knows I’m even wearing them.
surfnwriteAugust 29,2022 at 8:41PM UTC
I had to give a Loopup presentation to a company executive. I had some interference on my cell phone and was told curtly, "Call back on a landline." Landline? That told me all I needed to know about this out-of-touch individual and I've steered clear of him ever since.
LORI-ANN BURLINGAMEAugust 29,2022 at 11:43PM UTC
Under the circumstances, you did what you could -- and moved to a different location within the house. That was quick thinking and an example of your resourcefulness.
It is unfortunate that the companies were not more undersanding. You had no control over what your neighbor was doing.
It doesn't sound like either of these companies understand what "soft skills" are.
Janet ValdezAugust 29,2022 at 11:46PM UTC
As someone who has to do court hearings in often loud places, I highly recommend investing in a headset with a noise canceling microphone. Trust me, this would have helped with that situation.
AnonymousAugust 30,2022 at 12:25AM UTC
Can anyone recommend a particular noise cancelling headphone-mic brand/model that would have been reliable at getting rid of these background noises and useful for clear voice communication? Even sponsored links are welcome.
Laura Ann KleinAugust 30,2022 at 1:03AM UTC
This noise canceling headset is NOT cheap but it saved my a** when I was working from home and home was under construction without an office to go to! They really do cancel out background noise. Best of luck to you!
(I have no financial dog in this fight LOL) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07V1K1LH6?maas=maas_adg_19B7976A0D232FDAEC99E632345B4284_afap_abs&ref_=aa_maas
Rita PalanjianAugust 30,2022 at 8:43AM UTC
Thank you for providing the link. Very helpful.
AnonymousAugust 30,2022 at 12:52AM UTC
If they are that offended at the noise and didn't understand, would you want to work there anyway?
If they were not going to accommodate the unforseen, them they should interview you in person.
AnonymousAugust 30,2022 at 12:57AM UTC
If I were interviewing someone and this happened: I would admire their ability to pivot and keep going. Sure I would ask if this was a common thing to happen and how long did they expect the construction to go on. I agree with others--you don't want to work for them if they were offended. Stuff happens when you're remote, part of the skill set is rolling with the other stuff (IMO). Good luck to you!
AnonymousAugust 30,2022 at 11:45AM UTC
Unless it was so loud they could not hear the OP. They probably could have offered a alternate date to reschedule .
Wanda ShawAugust 30,2022 at 4:03AM UTC
As the saying goes: if something can go wrong, it will go wrong. And in both cases, these mishaps were clearly beyond your control. As one of the posters commented, you are to be commended for making the best out of a bad situation. And if these companies didn't bother to see the value in you and how well you responded in adverse situations, then it's all for the best.
AnonymousAugust 30,2022 at 9:55AM UTC
Divine timing. Any employer who isn't able to cope with challenges that are not of your making isn't someone you want to work with. I would stay in your place next time and explain that you could reschedule if it's too distracting.
Nicole DupuisAugust 30,2022 at 10:36AM UTC
That is a lot and it sure does sound stressful. This is the reality of work now. Some interruptions and unexpected things are going to come up because we are using technology and working from our homes.
moving forward, maybe plan to visit a communal work space if you have an important interview.
Honestly , I would probably reach out to the interviewer and ask for a “re-do.” If you really wanted one of these jobs, you have nothing to lose at this point.
LorrieSeptember 8,2022 at 1:14PM UTC
Hey, things can go wrong in an office environment or home environment. I've been in the office and a construction crew up the street cut the internet lines to the building. I've been in office on a zoom call (not interview) where the fire alarms went off. I've had situations where there is a storm and my office is on the top floor and if it rains hard enough you may not be able to hear on the call. Things happen - at home, at the office - where an unexpected situation curtails the ability to have an effective call. I feel like others that these companies should understand that YOU didn't schedule the chain sawers during your interview and that your neighbor certainly didn't run a schedule by you for review so you could ask to either move the chain saw team or the interview to avoid this situation. I hope you sent a "thank you" for the interview and apologized for the unexpected situation and offered to reconnect if they wanted additional time without the distraction. If they don't understand that "stuff happens" then agree with others, they might not have been the right companies but feel your frustration. Hang in there!
Diana De JongeAugust 30,2022 at 7:45PM UTC
Zoom has a feature that works like magic to cancel out the outside noise (dogs barking, babies crying, etc.) Go into settings > Audio > Suppress background noise and set it to high. Even if you'd have been bothered by the noise, they wouldn't have heard much.
AnonymousAugust 31,2022 at 12:15AM UTC
OP: I didn't know about this feature so thank you so much! I have two interviews tomorrow so I really appreciate your feedback!