Navigating the job market can be challenging, especially when our qualifications don't seem to align perfectly with available opportunities. Recently, I had an interview experience with a multinational company in Pakistan that underscored this struggle. I was thrilled to be shortlisted for the interview, as the job description perfectly matched my educational background. Feeling optimistic, I prepared thoroughly and arrived ready to make a strong impression. The interview panel included members from both Lahore and Karachi. They were quiet, gentle, and seemed approachable. After the initial pleasantries, they asked me to introduce myself. As I began my introduction, one of them displayed my CV on the screen. It was at this point that the HR representative interrupted me with a question that caught me off guard: "What are your salary requirements and why have you applied for this position?" I responded that I applied because the role closely matched my expertise and that my salary expectations were negotiable. However, the hiring manager quickly noted that I seemed overqualified for the position, which was intended for entry-level candidates, and hinted that their budget might not accommodate my expectations. Despite this, I maintained a positive demeanor and thanked them. I pointed out that their job posting mentioned a requirement of two years' experience in advertising but did not specify a salary range. After a decent debate on their JD, I left the interview with a sense of gratitude for the guidance they provided. This experience highlighted a common paradox in the job market: when you're fresh out of school, employers seek experience, and when you have the experience, they sometimes deem you too qualified or too expensive. After the interview, I thanked Almighty Allah for the position I have. Although I had hoped to secure the job, I trusted His plan for me, believing that He is the best planner. Sharing this story, I hope to encourage others facing similar challenges. Keep faith in your journey, and trust that the right opportunity will come at the right time.
Fahad Khalid’s Post
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