Falling on My Face During a Job Interview

Literally. In fact, I fell for a prospective employer earlier this year. I just couldn’t help myself. I blame my fancy black Payless heels.

On the Heels of Practicality

Way back in high school, I found a pair of killer black heels that were perfect for countless oral reading and FFA competitions. Pointy-toed, not overly tall – they were going to rock my professional dress.

They did. They also rocked me right into the concrete more often than roller skates ever did. My shins would passionately kiss pavement and burn for days afterward.

Now, a practical person would probably find a quick solution to this problem, right?

If A) Said shoes are attractive but basic and can be found elsewhere

and B) Said shoes cause pain and ego bruising, then

C) Get a new freakin’ pair of shoes and save yourself some grief.

Nearly a decade later, I’m still wearing those dratted shoes. Obviously, simple logic eludes me.

I paid $25 for those shoes – they’re going to stay with me until they die!

Good reasoning, honey.

Past Steps Lead to Regrets

Fast-forward to an interview-attired Cortney with a prospective employer (PE). They sit, talk, laugh and brainstorm. The conversation flows. They stand up.

Cortney collapses.

Her motionless legs had fallen asleep and the ever-dependable shoes did what they do best – trip their wearer up. She casually tosses a hand and a laugh. What else do you do when you’re sprawled on the floor in front of someone who could influence your future? She stands up again, determined to regain her composure.

She collapses again.*

Really, this is too much. This time the PE is concerned and Cortney is helplessly giggling internally.

“Are you okay?” PE asks.

“Oh yes,” she replies. “My legs just fell asleep. I really don’t make a habit of falling for people like this!” 

Cortney then spends the next few minutes reassuring the PE that she really doesn’t have problems with basic movements like standing up and that she doesn’t often spontaneously throw herself at others’ feet.

*If I had a picture of this, I would totally include that. Fortunately, I don’t. 

Lessons Learned

• Throwing yourself at a PE’s feet isn’t the most ideal approach to demonstrating your passion for the position.
• When something goes drastically awry, roll with it. Or just get up. Again. And again.
• Toss those stupid shoes!