What's the worst job application/interview experience you have? Because I just had quite an unprofessional snot!
So I applied for a position teaching English as a second language a few weeks ago. The lady responded asking for a time to call, I gave her one. And then she didn't call, so I sent her an email. So she called during work and left a voicemail, so I called back that evening and left her a voicemail and haven't heard from her since.
And then this transpires today (via email, with a few more "Dear So-and-So" and "Best regards, So-and-So" thrown in):
Andrea:
I send me your resume a few weeks back in regards to the teaching position. Please give me a call at your earliest convinience.
Me:
I gave you a call last week and left a voicemail. I'm happy to call again this evening, if it's convenient.
Andrea:
It seems to me that you already have a job. What would be your availability in case we were to give you this position?
Me:
It entirely depends on the position. I do have a job, but I am not thrilled with it. I would be interested to discuss the role and how it might fit what I am ultimately looking to do, which is teach ESOL or Spanish as a second language.
Andrea:
It might be possible for me to offer you a few classes in the evening before you actually make any decisions about your present job. After what time are you available in the evenings?
Me:
I finish work at 6pm on Miami Beach. That would be a very interesting arrangement, and I'd certainly be interested in exploring it further. Let's schedule a time to speak when it is convenient.
Andrea:
At what time do you make it to (location of teaching role)?
Me:
I could say 7pm to be safe, since traffic is unpredictable. I live in (nearby neighborhood), and usually make it home before 6:30pm.
Andrea:
That is too late! I would need you to teach group classes that start at 6:00 pm. In case we feel this is a good fit, do you think you can make arrangements to get here at that time?
Me:
I would have to see if my current company would shift my hours so I'd end at 5pm, which is likely.
Andrea:
Do you think that with rush hour traffic you would be able to make it to (location of teaching role) in an hour?
Andrea (sends an email immediately after):
Well, let me answer the question for you. You won't! I've tried it before and there is way too much traffic at that time. I don't think we would be able to work it out.
Me (shocked at the sarcasm and total lack of professionalism):
Okay, well, thank you for the consideration and best wishes in finding a teacher.
Andrea:
Thank you for applying.
Andrea (immediately writes back):
Are you available on Saturdays?
Like, are you for serious, lady? You don't keep phone appointments, you drop the ball and don't respond to a voicemail for over two weeks, you speak to me with condescention and sarcasm, and you want me to give up my Saturdays to work for you? Helllllll no!
I don't think I'm even going to respond.