Sometimes you just need to laugh at the chaos. In this episode, we're sharing the most awkward, uncomfortable, and downright unbelievable interview stories from our combined 40+ years in recruiting.
From profanity-dropping to drug usage confessions, sweaty bus rides in August Vegas heat to managers who forget who they're interviewing—this episode is proof that you truly cannot make this stuff up.
Consider this your masterclass in what NOT to do in an interview (and a behind-the-scenes look at what recruiters actually see when we sit in on your interviews).
What we cover:
- The "Stepped on My Tick" Incident: When a brilliant CCIE used profanity in front of a very conservative interviewer
- The Smoking Gun: Never, EVER smoke right before an interview (especially in front of the building)
- The August Bus Story: Why you should always tell your recruiter if you need transportation in 110° Vegas heat
- The Crystal Meth Confession: When "biggest challenge you've overcome" goes way too far
- Manager Interview Fails: Camera angles, not reading resumes, and asking the same questions over and over
- The Rating Scale Battle: Why refusing to answer "rate yourself 1-10" will tank your interview
- HR's Missing Act: Why HR should sit in on technical interviews (but never does)
Key Takeaways
✨ Never use profanity in an interview—we don't care how comfortable it gets, just don't
✨ Communication is everything—need a ride? Running late? Tell your recruiter!
✨ Some stories don't belong in interviews—save the deep personal stuff for after you're hired
✨ Prep with your recruiter—we know the landmines and can help you avoid them
✨ Managers aren't always great interviewers—but we can't coach them like we coach you
✨ Tech people are "interesting"—and we love you for it, quirks and all
✨ The job market is tough—let us help you navigate it without the embarrassment
Look, we're not here to shame anyone. Job searching is hard. Interviewing is stressful. And we've all had moments we wish we could take back.
But after decades in this business, we've learned that preparation, honesty (within reason), and having someone in your corner who knows the landscape can save you from these career-limiting moments. The hardest times in life? Moving, divorce, and finding a job. Don't go through the job search alone.
Whether you're a candidate who's bombed an interview, a hiring manager who needs interview training, or just someone who loves a good cringe story, The Bullpen is here to keep it real about what actually happens in the recruiting world.
Ready to navigate your job search with professionals who've literally seen everything? Contact TCG—we promise not to let you step on your tick in an interview.
Connect with TCG:Ready to expand the realm of possible? Let's talk.
https://www.taureanconsulting.net/search-las-vegas-it-and-tech-jobs/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/taureanconsulting/
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