Get your foot in the door
 

Hello!

I'm having trouble with this idiom...Could anyone help me out?

I always understood its meaning as 'to gain experience in a particular job' but then I saw this example and now I'm confused:

''I think I could do well in an interview once I get my foot in the door with an appointment''

What does it mean? achieve an appointment?

Thank you very much in advance!

Re: Get your foot in the door
 

Yes, it means get a chance to do something or show your ability/worth.

"If I could just get a foot in the door, they would see that I'm perfect for this job."

"My sister's recommendation helped me get a foot in the door. The company called me for an interview next week."

Re: Get your foot in the door
 

Thank you very much for your reply!

So, to get its meaning completely clear: Can this phrase be used in other contexts/situations apart from 'jobs/careers'?


I hope I made myself clear...my english is clearly not in tip-top condition haha :o

Re: Get your foot in the door
 

It might be used in relationships.

"I know Sarah and I would make an awesome couple ... if I could just get a foot in the door ..."

Can anyone else think of other uses?

Re: Get your foot in the door
 

To "get a foot in the door" can be used in pretty much any scenario involving pursuing an opportunity or goal of some kind. It is used to describe when you take a critical initial step in seizing an opportunity, and it usually makes things easier from there.

It is a metaphor for keeping a door open when someone else is pushing it closed. If someone is pushing a door closed from the other side, and you stick your foot in the doorway, the door won't close all the way, so you'll be able to get a good grip and push back.

It can be used in other, non-career, situations as well:

"I wanted to train at the new exclusive sports club downtown, but I heard it was tough to get a membership. It turns out my cousin is dating the owner, so she'll introduce me. That should get my foot in the door!"

Re: Get your foot in the door
 

Thank you very much, Balio!

That was exactly what I was looking for.

Thank you to you both, you've been of great help! :)