The story reflects the real world transition from teen to adulthood, shifting from fantasies to a more realistic/attainable outcome. The main character he hasn’t been taught formality; corporatism was a different world for him as old habits remained. As he progresses, he had to deal with unemployment, and the mocking that came with it.Throughout the book, the writer keeps his tone and expresses the way I feels at that moment time, the writer hints at his own frustration for not wanting to grow up. The book takes you through the journey of self-doubt as the author uses jargon and informal slang to communicate which is pivotal for his interaction, though he comes across as rude. He had to change the so-called “bad qualities” for societal admiration; he eventually learns more about himself as he develops understanding about himself. The path to success is caused by his ability to hold onto the past. He has learnt a lesson which became more valuable than money. The story has several writing styles, including creative elements to keep non-readers amused whilst portraying his own character as a joke.
In this memoir-like and uncensored read, this first-time South African author, Anees Hanslo, invites the reader to his personal journey of figuring out how to adapt in the real world while job hunting as a graduate. The title says it all; He really went to enough interviews to introspect and share his experience. You have my word too! A lot of graduates and those who went through the job seeking process would relate. I also think it would be a good read for anyone who needs a heads up on what really goes down in the modern job seeker's world.
He shares how he had to confront habits such as entitlement, competitiveness and privilege. I admire that he acknowledges his privileges and addresses factors such as inequality and historical structural issues embedded in our society that continue to put graduates from disadvantaged communities at a further disadvantage. He further self introspects on how the rejection made him question his worth, self-esteem, and career choice ; and drived the need to prove others as much as himself.
His eccentric personality cuts through as he uses humour to educate readers about some of the habits that may hinder millennial graduates from securing a job in an economy that already works against them. He discusses some of the mistakes interviewees should avoid during interviews; and how learning the “dragons” (interviewers) and their world could better chances.
Like the author, this book will challenge readers to introspect too and to question the popular culture that we consume that may shape our unrealistic perceptions of the real world. The writing is raw, and it is like living in the unfiltered thoughts of the author.
To keep the reader’s flow; I wish a whole chapter could have been dedicated for the authors random thoughts which some were insightful gems and some I would like to take him on a debate. Alternatively a section titled "notes" would have been cool too.
Upon completion of The Interview I can confidently say that it is a definite read for all. Especially individuals who can relate to the struggle of unemployment whether having a formal qualification or not. It is certainly an adventure into the courageous fight of a mere individual looking for a damn job, for damn sustenance through a career and the lessons learnt amidst this fight. The undying honour serves it's purpose as to remind the reader, whether able to relate or not, to keep the bright side on top despite not being given credit or being appreciated for one's abilities. And even then, one is allowed to get tired. At the end of it all we are also reminded to try to try.
Just completed the interview. A truly inspiring story which gives us a front seat window into the author's experiences. Thank you Anees Hanslo for sharing your story, I hope anyone who reads this book will learn a lot from it.