A Costly Slip of the Tongue

An interview that cost my promotional opportunity.

         I was pumped up for my scheduled promotional interview as my name was called. Simple questions progressed to more challenging ones that made me nervous and edgy. Still holding my composure, I reassured myself that I could handle this exercise with flying colors.

          “What background do you have in word processing?”

          Aha, I hit a home run. This is my chance to shine!

         So, I rambled on about my expertise in data processing.  Pointed out that while clerks bemoaned the introduction of computers into the court system, I welcomed it with excitement, explaining that, “Operating a computer is one of my pet peeves…”  Uh, what did I just say?

         I backtracked to correct myself, saying, “I mean - -- my favorite...” but it was beyond repair. I lost traction the moment I caught the word “peeve” jumped in with “pet.”

         I never wondered why I was not promoted. I just knew I blew it big time!