Interview story: What do you do over the weekend? - 05/24

Back in 2008, I was laser focus in landing an internal management role at Larsen & Toubro. I had cleared aptitude and written test and was awaiting the interview. This role suited my profile (this was the external reason, money was the internal reason 😉). Up to that point, I'd aced every interview, from college clubs to campus placements.

Guess what was the outcome of the interview - I was rejected!

Why? 

Because I prepared for this interview based on last year's interview questions, by watching "secret of success" videos, by preparing a speech of "why I'm a good fit for the role" 

During the interview, I fumbled on work related questions, as I had not prepared for it. And add it to it, I told the interviewer about the above when he asked, "What do I do on the weekend?" 

My approach was akin to JayShah meticulously preparing the pitch, stadium, and other external factors for the 2023 Cricket World Cup Final in Ahmedabad. Or think of PM Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah gearing up for the 2024 National Election with an extended 2 months of election, 400+ campaign and lofty proclamations like “I am chosen by God.” 

External factors play a secondary role; real work is irreplaceable.

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