Only the most professional people get hired
For the past eight weeks, my world hasn't been dominated by the hustle and bustle of everyday life, but by the towering walls and bustling streets of Shiganshina. No, I haven't somehow become a citizen of the Attack on Titan universe – I've been meticulously recreating it, brick by brick, in Minecraft.
The seed of this project was sown during a late-night Attack on Titan rewatch. As the iconic Wall Maria loomed on screen, I found myself captivated by the intricate details of the district. The towering houses, the cobbled streets, the sense of history and life within the looming shadow of the Titans – it all sparked a creative fire. "I could build that in Minecraft," I thought, and the challenge was set.
The journey began with research. Countless screenshots, frame-by-frame analysis of scenes, and online blueprints became my blueprints. I meticulously planned the layout, ensuring the iconic Trost District gate, Eren Yeager's house, and the narrow alleyways were all faithfully recreated.
Minecraft, with its boundless creative potential, became my artistic playground. Wooden planks transformed into weathered houses, cobblestone morphed into bustling streets, and even the iconic cannons atop the wall were meticulously recreated using pistons and dispensers. Each block placed felt like a brushstroke on a grand canvas, bringing Shiganshina back to life in a pixellated world.
But this wasn't just about replicating the buildings. I wanted to capture the essence of Shiganshina, the sense of a bustling pre-Titan world. Villagers became the citizens, scurrying through the streets, adding a touch of life to the world. Custom resource packs added textures that evoked the worn, historical feel of the district. Even the lighting was carefully adjusted to create a sense of twilight, mirroring the atmosphere of the anime.
The time commitment was significant. Hours were spent meticulously placing blocks, terraforming the landscape, and adding intricate details. There were moments of frustration, like realizing I'd miscalculated the scale of a building and having to demolish and rebuild. But with each completed section, a surge of satisfaction washed over me. Shiganshina was taking shape, a testament to dedication and pixelated artistry.
Now, two months later, I stand within the virtual walls of Shiganshina, a sense of accomplishment washing over me. It's not just a replica; it's a testament to the power of imagination, the immersive world of Minecraft, and the enduring appeal of Attack on Titan. This build is a reminder that with dedication and a little pixelated magic, anything is possible – even recreating a world on the brink of destruction.
Perhaps the next step is to invite fellow Attack on Titan fans to explore this virtual Shiganshina. Who knows, maybe we can even stage a friendly (or not-so-friendly
Beyond the Suit: Rethinking the "Professional" Ideal in Hiring
The adage "only the most professional people get hired" is often repeated in career advice. While professionalism is important, a closer look reveals a more nuanced picture. Hiring decisions involve a complex interplay of skills, experience, and yes, professional demeanor. But what constitutes "professional" and how can we ensure it doesn't become a barrier to finding the best talent?
Traditionally, professionalism has been associated with a polished exterior – formal attire, confident body language, and a carefully crafted resume. While these elements can create a positive first impression, they can also mask an individual's true strengths and create an environment of inauthenticity.
A candidate who might be a creative problem-solver might come across as awkward in a rigid interview setting. Someone with a passion for their field might not have the perfectly tailored resume, but their enthusiasm and genuine interest in the work could be a perfect fit for the company culture.
Focusing solely on a narrow definition of "professional" can lead to overlooking talented individuals who might not fit the traditional mold. Here's how we can approach hiring with a broader perspective:
Focus on Skills and Fit: The most crucial element should always be the candidate's ability to perform the job effectively. Technical skills, relevant experience, and a demonstrated understanding of the industry are vital. Beyond that, a good cultural fit is essential. Does the candidate's work ethic and values align with the company's? Will they thrive in the collaborative environment? These factors are key to long-term success.
Look Beyond the Resume: Resumes are valuable, but they're not the only story. Consider skills assessments, portfolio presentations, or even well-curated social media profiles that showcase relevant work and accomplishments. These can offer a more well-rounded picture of a candidate's capabilities.
Prioritize Behavioral Interviewing: Instead of focusing solely on past experiences, use behavioral interviewing techniques. Ask situational questions and probe how the candidate approached similar challenges in the past. This provides a clearer picture of their problem-solving skills, communication style, and adaptability – all crucial qualities for a successful professional.
Embrace Diversity: A diverse workforce brings a wealth of perspectives and experiences to the table. Move beyond the traditional "professional" image and actively seek candidates from different backgrounds. This fosters innovation and creates a more inclusive work environment.
Communication is Key: Transparency is essential. Clearly communicate the company culture and expectations during the interview process. This allows candidates to showcase their authentic selves and assess their fit within the company. Being clear also helps avoid hiring someone who might struggle to adapt to the actual work environment.
Professionalism remains important, but it shouldn't be a one-size-fits-all mold. By focusing on skills, cultural fit, and a broader definition of professionalism, we can create a hiring process that attracts and retains the best talent, regardless of their interview attire or the way they phrase their responses. The future of work lies in finding the right people, not just the most "professional" ones.
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