First story:
Many years ago I was looking for my first job. The economy was not in great shape, and interviews were tough to come by. I had gotten married only recently and had a wife and newborn to support.
Most of the interview went well, but at one point a personnel dept. person asked a question that I gave a foolish answer to. As soon as I spoke I realized that it was the wrong thing to say but it was too late. My friend got a job offer and I did not.
I was extremely upset over what had happened, but there was nothing to be done.
Second story:
Two months later, my entire group transferred to a boss who is still one of the best I ever worked for. The first group? Their project was canceled.
Lessons learned:
3) I really need to practice my interview skills beforehand. 🙂