Wow, I noticed this morning that I entirely missed posting in July. I’ve gone longer without posts before but it is my intention to post regularly, if not weekly.
So why the silence? Well I was going through a series of interviews for an incredible job. Four interviews actually. No, I was not the successful candidate. Again. It can be very hard to keep your chin up through multiple almosts. I am trying.
At the same time I was starting the interview process for that position I was also called back to interview for a role with an organization that summarily rejected me a month earlier as too senior for the role. So in I went to meet with them. I know it went well because, hey you can tell, and one of the interviewers flat out told me so.
A month later, only after my AFID recruiter followed up, I got – ” I must highlight that we found your background and skills very impressive. However, after careful consideration, in this instance, yada yada” and “Given the strength of your application and candidacy, we will maintain your records and should a position open that matches your qualifications, we will contact you.” Please, if you are a recruiter, do not use that final sentence. It is an empty platitude and candidates know this. It actually has the opposite effect to what is intended.
I hope this sounds frustrated, not bitter. I am plugging along on my job search and still hope to stay in Africa.
My confidence in me and my abilities is still strong. After all, the NGO that hired me for three months starting in January has extended me yet again until November. They would hire me if funding permitted.
My confidence that I can get a job in international development wavers at times. I am even toying with getting an online masters because graduate degrees are definitely preferred. My French is improving in baby steps mainly due to lack of dedication to my practicing.
I am certainly still enjoying my life in Africa. Later today a new friend is taking me out to meet Kampala street kids. He used to be one. I will write all about it within the week.
No back to my Sunday morning job search!
A Travelling Accountant 