Once upon a time, Bryan decided to become a civil engineer. And we all know what a noble profession that is, so anyone here who supports him, say "Yay, waitago Bryaaaan!".
So after going through his remaining 6 years of school + the 4 years of civil engineering training at the National University of Singapore, Bryan finally graduated as a civil engineer at the modest age of only 20. He was so happy and proud that he wanted to start work immediately. The very next day, he vigorously applied for civil engineering jobs all over the country so that his "dream" may finally become a reality.
As you may have observed, Bryan has a very optimistic personality. And so, 6 months and 2578 applications later, he finally received an interview for a civil engineering position in the Bukit Buttok* area of Singapore. This was his second interview so far.
The first did not turn out so well as the boss was perhaps too descriptive of the job at the interview(often not a good idea. You will see why shortly) The first interview turned out something like this.
President of Company: Why do you want to join our company?
Bryan: I am a very keen civil engineer and even though I have very little experience, I feel that I could contribute to your highly esteemed company by helping in the Pasir Pilllow project by suggesting some techniques I've developed. These techniques can halve the time for the project and increases productivity.
President: That's very impressive Mr. Bryan. I have just one more question and even though it is very trivial, I feel that it should be asked. If while you are on duty, one of the workers throws himself off the scaffolding and falls 12 floors to meet his maker, what would you do?
Bryan: Oh...err...err...I guess I should report the "accident" to the company.
President: hmm... hmmm...hmmmm
Needless to say, Bryan didn't receive the job.
The second company's name was Kiasu* Constructors (PVT) Ltd. Although Bryan was becoming somewhat disgruntled the past 6 months, on receiving his 2nd invitation for an interview, his optimism came back in cascades that only rollercoaster enthusiasts would feel as they fell head-fast into the raging waters of "The tides of Hell".
This time he was careful with his wording by clearly assuring his boss that the nearest dozer would be ready with the earth to cover the body before you could say "Hot Diggety Dang".
He was given the job immediately and was told to report to the site the very next day.
In my experience and probably in all of your experiences as well , job interviews really have very little to do with the actual job at hand(who's with me there?).
Bryan's first day at work was pretty much what he expected. A civil site, with civil workers, civil excavators, civil construction; yep, Bryan was the happiest man on Earth, and "what had job interviews to do with the actual job at all?" he laughed. "People throwing themselves off buildings...HAHAHAHA!" he laughed.
Only last week did I hear that he'd broken the record for "Best sales-person of the year" at Hollies (Orchard Road) for 6 years straight. And he's only 26 years old!
* These names are NOT made up. If you don't believe me, ask a Singaporean.
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