LESSON OF THE DAY: LEARNING FROM FAILURES

My first job interview didn’t go so well. July 2007. I was a fresh graduate, ready to so-called take over the world. After knowing that I had passed every subjects, I began to take my job applications very seriously. I submitted my cover letter and resume to various places, for the sake of getting a job. Eventually, I got a call from a radio station asking me to read the news. I was all excited about it. Just imagine: thousands of people will be able to hear your voice as you present the news. It was a radio position, but I am happy to start out as a newsreader on radio.

There I was looking very sleek and smart. I had my shirt ironed properly. I wore my black pants and black shoes. I looked very proper for a job interview. I was ushered to the newsroom and was greeted by a man in t-shirt, jeans and some cheap slippers.

“Oh my!” I thought to myself.

I was given a task: Summarize 5 news articles into three to four sentences each and I had to go to the recording room and present the news. I could record as many times as I wanted to and I was taught how to use the recording machine. After many attempt, I finally thought that I had given my best. I thought it was the coolest job ever and I wanted the job so bad.

“Syafique,” said the superior, “I don’t think you are suitable to be a newsreader.”

Before I could defend myself, he said, “Christine, can you show him…”

Christine came and asked, “Show him what?”

“Please show him the exit.”

It ruined my day as I didn’t like the way he asked me to leave the room. It was very impolite. I wasn’t treated with respect but I still had my faith intact, knowing there are other opportunities out there.

***

So what is my point in this post: I am starting to notice that some fresh graduates do not have the determination anymore. They want everything easy and they give up easily. For example, if they got rejected from a job interview, they will think that they are not good or smart enough. They think they are not worthy enough. They rant, rant and rant and it will make matters worse. It will then reflect on how they carry themselves. However, potential employers want to see someone with confidence and determination. How can young and frustrated graduates be so when they don’t feel good about themselves?

Learn from me: Don’t give up!

Back to the story: Fine, I didn’t get the radio newsreader job. I was so furious up to a point where I said, “Fine, that person will be sorry for not hiring me. Watch out!!’. I had two options: To let the situation rule my life and my self-worth OR to keep chasing that dream life.

My determination led me to try TV (even though I had braces on during the job interview!). Obviously I got the job and got more than what I asked for.

I may not be the most religious person on earth, but I do believe that God is forever fair. If we are experiencing difficulties, God wants us to teach us some lessons. By being rejected, we are actually learning our strengths and weaknesses. It gives us an opportunity on self-improvement. I do hope that if you are going through this right now, do embrace the CAN DO spirit and chase that dream life that you deserve.

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