The Interview

Finding out you are the subject of an embarrassing photo

I don’t know why I was nervous. The interview candidate needed to be stressed, not me. This, however, was a very senior role. The candidate would be my boss and the CTO of the company. I was keen to impress him and show our company in the best possible light. He had an intimidating resume and I wanted him to know that we matched up to his expertise and experience.

Gerald walked in with an easy confidence. He was impeccable and I wondered who his tailor was. His black shoes had a mirror polish on them. His deep voice rumbled a hello as he stretched his hand to shake mine. He was an imposing figure, well over six and a half feet but nothing awkward about him.

We exchanged pleasantries and sat down. “Looks like the last CTO didn’t last too long,” he smirked. “Ye…yes…there were certain differences between the founders and…,” I said almost sounding apologetic. “Okay, this is what I bring to the table,” he countered without waiting for me to finish my explanation. He proceeded to rattle off his accomplishments and skills. I listened patiently but he wouldn’t stop.

Out of sheer boredom, I scanned recorded footage from the lobby security cameras. Something caught my eye and I paused the video and took a screenshot to get a closer look. I burst out laughing. Gerald stopped in mid-sentence and gave me a hostile look. I completely lost it at that point. Still laughing, I turned the screen towards him.

In the photo, clear as day, there was a piece of toilet paper emanating from the back of his immaculate suit.
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