This is what keeps me going. It can happen just this fast! What’s amazing about this story is it all took place by e-mail.
At 02:23 AM 1/20/99 EST, you wrote:
Captain Bob,
Today was a very interesting day for me. I had what I feel, was a good interview with a Fire Department today. I thought I would contact you to let you know this. A few months ago, I purchased your "Conquering the Job Interview" package and I'd like to say it has definitely got me started in the right direction.
This Fire Department decided to throw out the first list due to reasons unknown. For me this was a blessing. I did very poorly on the first interview and was going to get a second chance. This just gave me more time to prepare my script.
My second interview this morning went very well, however I would like to get your opinion about one part of my interview that took me by surprise. Up into the last question I was answering each question I felt to the best of my ability. I was very well prepared and answered openly and honestly, it was going great until the Captain, brought up a question regarding my childhood.
I immediately began to answer but was overcome by emotion, I had a difficult time answering the question. I apologized to the board and ask them if I could take a second to regain my composer. They were very respectful and gave me this time. I continued to answer the question to the best of my ability.
The next question was my closing and I felt I closed very strongly. My question to you is, do you think this may hurt my overall score? I would be grateful, If you can respond and give me your opinion about this. Or if you can give me a call maybe wecan discuss it in detail a little more.
Sincerely,
Phil
Captain Bob’s e-mail back:
Phil:
Don't psych your self out by second guessing yourself. The situation probably helped not hurt you. You asked and took the time to regroup. Perfectly acceptable and shows you want to make a good impression.
What was the question? What got you stuck? What was your answer?
You can call me if you want more info.
At 12:22 AM 1/21/99 EST, you wrote:
Captain Bob,
First of all thank you for responding. The question had to do with my education which began in 1986-1998. The Captain wanted to know if there was another direction I was considering, because of the long gap in between my education.
I said, "no Sir, my intentions were to continue to go to college right out of high school but I was forced to work in order to help support my family. My Parents were divorced when I was 12, and I was thrown into this huge responsibility to help raise my younger brother and help with finances.
It wasn't until I met my fiancée, and with her parents support, I was able to continue my education and pursue my ultimate goal." At this point I was overcome by emotion. This has never happen to me before. This is when I apologized to the board, and asked to regain my composer. I went on to givemy closer still a little shaken but I felt it went very well.
I hope I answered your questions. The reason I asked if this might hurt my score. I know they want to see a confident not cocky, yet a little aggressive type person, and by showing my emotions, may make me seem a little weak.
What's your opinion?
Thank You,
Phil
Reply: "Captain Bob" e-mail
Phil:
Oh, no, you did an outstanding job. Who else could have told that story but you! You made your answer personable and carried it with emotion. You did real good.
Now this e-mail from Phil:
Captain Bob,
I wanted to update you on the results of my Oral last week. I wrote to you about being overcome by emotion during my interview and you felt if anything it helped me. You were right, yesterday I received a phone call from personnel wanting to schedule a Chiefs Oral for next week.
Today I received my score of 95%, and was ranked #3. There are 4 immediate openings and the top 11 will be going to the Chiefs Oral. I can't believe it it's actually happening. If you can give me any helpful advice for my upcoming Chiefs interview I would appreciate it very much.
In your tapes, and seminar you said, "You’re riding the winning pony . . . Don’t switch ponies". I won’t.
Thank You,
Phil
"Captain Bob’s" comment:
This is a perfect example of personalizing your answers. Nobody can tell your story. Nobody!
The defense rests!
The most important e-mail from Phil:
Capt, Bob
It's been a while since I have filled you in on my progress. It has been a wild ride, but my goal is complete. I was offered a position and have already finished my two week orientation academy. I've been on the floor now for three weeks, I can't believe it. My dream has finally become a reality.
Thank you for all your support and advice. I truly believe you made a big difference in my success.
I hope in the future I can give back to others in the same way you have.
Sincerely, Phil
I’m overcome with emotions every time I get a call or e-mail of a success story.
"Captain Bob"
Ask "Captain Bob" Any Question
Nothing counts ‘til you have the badge. Nothing!
Sign up for our FREE weekly drawing of our "Conquer Fire Department Oral Boards" on our web site: http://www.eatstress.com
"Captain Bob"
Toll free 888-238-3959
Fire "Captain Bob" Smith has coached countless entry level and promotional candidates to get their badge. He is a retired 28-year Hayward, Ca. Captain, speaker/author of the audio/video program "Conquer the Job Interview," the book "Fire Up Your Communication Skills" ISBN 09657620-6-8 and a member of the prestigious National Speakers Association. You can book him as a speaker or get a copy of his books and tapes by calling toll free at 888-238-3959.
E-mail: captbob@verio.com Web site: http://www.eatstress.com