Love Is… Presenting Yourself Accordingly
July 6, 2009 by Dawn
Filed under Bible Based Living
When the going gets tough, the tough get going is an age old adage that many of us have coined at one time or another. With our current economic climate, it seems to become more than a saying to many of us; it is a way of life. Some of us are digging in our heels and taking on additional jobs to make ends meat. Or we may find ourselves chipping away at the grocery list, only buying what is absolutely necessary to stay on budget. In our household, seeing newly released movies is a thing of the past, as it is an expense we can no longer afford. So are evenings out as a family, weekend trips, visits to the amusement parks, or any past enjoyment that we used to splurge our money on. Now we are clipping coupons, looking for deals, and figuring out ways to cut our budgets.
Personally, I have started to search for a second job to supplement our current income. After sending out what seems to be hundreds of resumes, I finally received interest from one company looking for a part-time assistant. Excited, I followed the instructions and presented myself at the appropriate time to fill out a brief questionnaire.
To my amazement, there were at minimum thirty other people already in the waiting area hoping to speak with the manager regarding the position. After turning in the questionnaire, the employer asked if I would also wait for a few moments to discuss the job. A few moments turned into two hours, but I finally made my way in, and pray that I made not only a lasting but an inspiring impression.
The thing that amazed me, were the lessons I learned as I waited to speak with the employer. To everyone seeking potential employment, please keep these tips in mind.
1. Always be on your best behavior. Even though we were in the waiting area, the receptionist and other office employees were consistently in and out of the area, and certainly had their eyes open to the potential new employees. Many times a manager will ask the secretary or receptionist how they were treated, and this may be the deciding factor on whether or not you receive a call back.
2. Turn the cell phone off.I know we live in the age of modern conveniences, where anyone can reach you at anytime and for any reason. However, unless it is a dire emergency, do not engage in texting or phone conversations while you are waiting to be interviewed. If it is an emergency, and you must take the call, politely excuse yourself and take the call outside.
3. Dress for success. I really cannot believe that I have to implore people to dress appropriately when they are interviewing for a position. Do not wear jeans, even if they are hundred dollar designer jeans. Do not wear halter tops. Do not wear flip flops. Dress modestly and professionally.
4. Know your potential employer. If an employer is taking the time to speak with you, take the time to know who they are. You would not go on a date without knowing something about the person you are dating, so why then would you go on an interview without Googling the company? Knowing what business the employer is in and some of their history is a big plus!
5. Always… I mean ALWAYS… have good manners. Thank the manager for meeting with you. Thank the receptionist / secretary for helping you. Say good-bye. Learn names. This shows that you are considerate of others and not self-centered.
As I sat and observed individuals in the lobby awaiting their turn, I realized that even in this situation, I am a representative of Christ. I should not only be focused on presenting myself accordingly for a potential employer, but should be focused on presenting myself accordingly for a potential believer.
And that made me begin to wonder; what impressions I am leaving on other people? When they meet me or see me, do they see a reflection of our Savior? Am I kind? Am I courteous? Do I put others before myself? Or am I self-centered, worried about my tomorrows, and not helping anyone else out?
I pray that I am an example of the approved worker as seen in II Timothy 2:
Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth. Avoid worthless, foolish talk that only leads to more godless behavior. (II Tim 2:15-16, NLT)
So I encourage you, as you go on those job interviews, as you find potential employment, ask yourself…do people see Jesus when they see me; and then present yourself accordingly.
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