Me, looking for technical writing jobs after writing a highly fucking technical dissertation: I have a PhD but I'm pretty burned out on being a try-hard so I'm just looking for a straightforward 9-to-5.

Them: We're worried you'll be bored.

Me: Anyone would get bored doing this, at least I'll be good at it.

Them: No.

What is my greatest weakness?

I’m aware of my own gaps in knowledge. I have a PHD but the more I ponder on what I learned and the program I was involved in the more I realize what I don’t know.

My greatest strength?

My willingness to not give too much weight to what I know and focus on what I don’t know.

This absolutely happens in real life. Guy I worked with was at a large telecom company that liquidated in the 2000s. Dude was high up and had a beach house.. you know, rich people stuff.

After the 2000s recession he had major trouble getting hired because he earned too much before and potential employers would think he would leave if they gave him a lower offer.

He ended up working for me building hydroponic farms for about a year making shit pay.

This guy's cover letter

Dear Hiring Team,

I would like to be considered for this role, I have a PhD and have all of the qualifications on paper. I've even published in the area you are hiring for, but really you should consider me as an entry level engineer. I don't know a lot, and I get confused sometimes. But, please hire me.

Best,

• The Guy Who Applied, PhD

Hrm, ngl this username probably helps? 😜

Sometimes I think I have imposter syndrome. Then this person shows up.