[Macc Grad]

Question, which I should’ve asked before the interview I just came from.

So I just came from an interview, lasted an hour. It was for a private company accounting position. I was not nervous, could care less if they extend me an offer, and it was by far the easiest interview I’ve had in a long time. No pressure because I already have a good paying job with benefits. I put on my suit and had the apartment set at a cool 65 degrees prior to leaving…Office attire is business casual, but the owner was in a suit and tie, so I deffinately errored correctly.

Anyways, I couldn’t stop sweating! Like drip off the face sweating…the more I became self consious about it, the worse it got. I’ve always perspired, but this was bad! Finally about 30 minutes into it, I apologized and grabbed some tissue on the conference table and said, “I apologize this is only the second time I’ve worn a suit this year.” From which they all said it was indeed hot in the conference room, which it was, didn’t help I was sitting in the sun in a black suit (I was presented a seat there). My comment really broke the ice about it (obviosuly they could tell), and they all kind of chuckled and really it was no big deal. I do not think it will have any bearing on if I get an offer, and like I mentioned, really don’t care.

I’m thinking of investing in a classy hankerchief and keeping it in my pocket from now on and dabbing myself off next time. What are all of your thoughts on this? At first this idea felt a bit rude to me, but twice I felt sweat actually drip off my eyebrow…awwwwkward. Any other ideas?

I’m not a drinker, and I ran on a treadmill for an hour first thing this morning (5 hours prior).

Ties feel like a noose to me, but that’s ok, no Big 4 plans in my future anyways…

BEC - 77 (exp. 2/23/12)
REG - 75
AUD - 74
FAR - 11/29/11

[yankeeaccountant]

@Macc Grad

Sounds like you handled it well. I don't think you could have done better. I think the handkerchief idea is probably a smart one. I don't think having one and using it is rude at all.

The only thing I would add is that if you are in this situation again, and it is bothersome to you, and the meeting/interview isn't important, I would cut it short.

Good exercise to go on the interview even if it wasn't what you wanted, I think they are always good practice, and you never know what lead could develop from it.

Best of luck in the job search.

[mla1169]

I also think it is perfectly acceptable to take off the suit jacket and hang it on the back of your chair if the room seems warm. But you handled it perfectly!

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Massachusetts CPA (non reporting) since 3/12.

[Anonymous]

You could fill a plain black coffee travel mug with ice water and take it with you. It would be unobtrusive and would help cool you down.

[kandisjoy]

I don't know, is it really appropriate to bring a coffee mug with you to an interview? I've never brought a drink with me. Is that normal?

FAR: 71, 77
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CA Licensed 11/2011

[Anonymous]

I agree with mla, and with kandis. I think it would be inappropriate to bring your own drink. The usual thing is for the interviewers to offer you coffee or ice water (or the admin staff on your arrival, whatever).

[Macc Grad]

I could've gotten away bringing my own drink to this interview, and ice water would've been a good idea. I was asked to apply through networking and gained the appoitment through my wife's innocent conversation with the business owner. He elduded that I was the choice during the conversation and it was more of, how do we make this thing work for both of us? They want full-time, I eluded to 20~30 hours a week. Because my main job with beni's is too good right now to leave.

On my way out the door, I was told there are certain confidential projects they need looked at which should be right up my ally. I threw out the audit terms during the interview and used that word “confidentiality” a couple of times.

Anyways, caught wind from my wife they are very interested in a follow up, and really liked me. I sent a thank you letter and it should be there Monday, I will call Tuesday. It may just be right up my ally, so I think I was a bit persuasive in my interview than I thought, while losing a half a pound in the process :).

Guess I'll see what they say next week 🙂

BEC - 77 (exp. 2/23/12)
REG - 75
AUD - 74
FAR - 11/29/11

[Author]

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