transientem

Genshiken 2 is like a compilation of how things work, and not just things that you’d rather not know about. Sure, there’s some self-deprecating humour in the “Dude, we’re such losers” vein, but thankfully that’s kept to a minimum. I think we’re a self-deprecating lot to begin with, so while we’ll nod and grin (awkwardly?) at our screens during those moments, it’s not the most interesting part of the show.

What is interesting is how characters are caught up in the same organizational and administrative details that confront anyone who has to get things done as a group. Watch and be amazed (or not) at how one slacker can derail the whole process and turn a meeting into a session filled with bickering and finger pointing.

Come to think of it, not much goes right in Genshiken 2. If there’s anything to be learned, it may only be discovered by process of elimination. Another point for perseverance, much like the job hunt.

I can’t speak for the other events in Genshiken 2, but the way it portrays the job hunt is QFT worthy. Even around here, employers still do group and multi-stage interviews. They still ask new grads for their reasons for applying to the company, and I think they always will. Song and dance may not necessarily help you on the job, but it sure helps in getting one. Lack of preparation factors in here, but it’s Sasahara’s honesty that really dooms him.

And in the end, he got lucky. That happens, too. Someone who just skips the flattery part is already awesome, but someone who tells you why is a walking definition of the perfect interviewer. Just no insanely hard technical questions, please.

Dream interview or not, the result can be pretty rough. Sometimes you take what you can get. Sometimes the actual job doesn’t match the description or title at all. Sometimes, your job is so great you don’t want to leave the office. Sometimes, you just go back to school. Genshiken 2 covers all these outcomes.

Looking for a job is a pretty lonely chapter and Genshiken 2 doesn’t treat it as anything else. The crew can drop by and ask how things are going, but it’s not as if they can follow you into the interview and cheer you on. Disappearing for a week or two? Not uncommon.

This aspect of Genshiken 2, spanning the last half of the series in one form or another, is not pleasant to watch or relive, for those who have gone through the grinder, but it’s one of those things that you should watch anyway. Not because you’ll be educated, or jaded, or embittered all over again, but because it’s probably as meandering and gritty as you remember, or will remember.

Do your best.