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The discussion of this chapter is here: Patience At Work
The struggle is real wherever you work. Managers, politics, colleagues, customers. It’s a mesh of responsibilities, focus, and endurance. Sometimes, just surviving a job is the key to thriving. Let me explain.
I’ve been at my new role now for over three and a half months. They owe me a review of my salary and work so far. And so far, crickets. I’ve been trying to move up, so I’ve been applying for jobs at my store as well as other stores around Austin. The other stores have all responded. At least I know that they don’t see a fit. It’s early in my grocery reboot.
My store, on the other hand, has failed to respond about my recent job application. I’m playing by the rules, I’m not asking to jump several levels above my entry-level role. Nope. Just looking for what I was promised about 90 days at this minimal hourly rate.
And there have been a few developments. I am starting to ask questions.
I applied for this job two weeks ago, why have I not been given an interview?
Is there something wrong with my application?
Who should I talk to?
Okay, so I spoke with my hiring manager, the one who nearly got be voted off the island for doctor’s excused medical absences. He said he would check in with the team lead of our group, Customer Service. And sure enough, that gentleman approached me the same day, Saturday, but what he said was even more confusing.
“Things are getting pretty serious with this supervisor position.”
“Yes,” I said, ready for his invitation.
“We both work tomorrow, why don’t we touch base then?”
What the heck does “touch base” mean? Either I get an interview or a don’t. Of course, I was enthustic. “Great.”
And tomorrow came and went yesterday. As I was coming in for my shift, this manager was coming up the stairs. “Just going to my lunch,” he said, obviously referencing our need to “chat.”
Then he was gone.
Okay, I get it. I’m pushing the river a bit. I’m also confused. Why would they NOT give me an interview unless it is bad news? Or perhaps they are planning on moving me over to Bakery so I can transform and reinvigorate the Coffee Bar and Breakfast? I have no idea. I also did not get to talk to him about my interview about the “getting pretty serious” aspect of the supervisor role.
Okay, today I chill out. I have a day off. I work tomorrow, Tuesday. I’ve also got an interview for a job UPSTAIRS in the corporate marketing office. So, I’m moving along either way.
Life does not happen on our time. Interviews, salary increases, leadership roles, don’t happen on our schedule. The corporate machine has it’s own rhythm. Leadership has it’s own dysfunctions. And, most importantly, I’m in no pain. I am happy. I am doing the work of service everyday while practicing my standup routing and banter. Life is good. A little expensive for what I’m getting paid, but it will work out. I’m confident and optimstic. And on the days I’m off, at this job, I don’t have to think about work at all. (Except for completing the interview with corporate today.
I look forward to seeing you in the checkout line.
[Listen to the Deep Dive explore the concepts of The Happy Cashier.]
The hope I see in others
becomes the hope I have for myself,
my life, and my own journey.
– The Happy Cashier
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ALT: Botisatva’s Bookshelf | The Happy Cashier Podcast
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