The Ego Trap: A Recruiter’s Cautionary Tale
In my years of experience as a recruiter, I’ve encountered countless talented candidates. Yet, talent alone doesn’t always guarantee a successful outcome. Here’s a cautionary tale that I often share with my candidates to emphasize the importance of humility and professionalism.
I recently had a candidate with a shining resume and a glowing track record. He sailed smoothly through two phone interviews — one with the regional manager and another with the VP of sales. The feedback was unanimous: they were impressed. The company, poised for significant growth, saw him not just as a fit for the present role but also as someone with the potential for future leadership positions.
However, the narrative took a sharp twist during the in-person interview. Instead of using the opportunity to forge a meaningful connection, the candidate began by flaunting the number of other interviews he had lined up, name dropping companies and setting up anticipated offers, finally culminating with a question, “What can you do for me?”
One hiring manager, a former candidate of mine, described the encounter as her worst interview experience. She conjectured that since he had been in his current role for a mere seven months — possibly a wrong career move — he was perhaps overcompensating for his perceived vulnerabilities. Rather than conveying confidence, he came across as desperately trying to leverage his marketability. It was an absolute train wreck.
The most astonishing aspect was his self-perception post-interview. He genuinely believed he had done an exceptional job. So absorbed was he in showcasing his desirability in the job market, he overlooked the very essence of an interview: understanding the role, showcasing relevant skills, and asking meaningful questions.
This manager, while acknowledging his qualifications, declared she would never hire him. His ego had cast a shadow so vast that it obscured his evident skills and expertise.
When I eventually debrief with this candidate, it will be a delicate task. Yet, his experience underscores a universal lesson I want every candidate to internalize: Your skills and qualifications get you in the door, but it’s your humility, genuine interest, and professionalism that will seal the deal.
In our journey to find the right job, we must strive for the perfect equilibrium between confidence and humility. Remember, it’s not just about securing a job, it’s about building lasting professional relationships. Always ensure your game overshadows your ego.
Decoding the Resume Conundrum: Candid Insights
In the fast-paced world of recruiting, I’ve seen trends come and go. With over four decades under my belt, I’ve watched the recruiting industry evolve in countless ways. Today, I’d like to share some observations I’ve made, which might just help you optimize your chances when you send that resume out next.
The Absence of Phone Numbers on Resumes
One thing I’ve noticed lately is that many candidates opt not to include their phone numbers on their resumes. The usual reason? An influx of unwarranted or even fraudulent calls. While I empathize with this concern, it’s crucial to understand the recruiter’s perspective. We often sift through 80 to 100 resumes in a short time-frame. If a resume lacks a phone number, it, unfortunately, ends up in the discard pile. The market today is ruthless, and this omission can be a deal-breaker.
Geographical Discrepancies
Location, location, location! A recurring issue I’ve seen is applicants from one city, say Seattle, applying for roles that explicitly state a different location requirement, such as “MUST LIVE IN DALLAS”. While this might infuriate many recruiters, I’ve come to approach it with patience. Over the years, I’ve learned to differentiate between genuine candidates and those just throwing their resumes into the wind. But it does raise concerns about the diminishing accuracy of platforms like LinkedIn, Zip Recruiter, and Indeed. It’s essential to pay close attention to location specifications when applying.
Qualification Mismatches
One of the more puzzling trends I’ve encountered is receiving applications from individuals who don’t meet the listed qualifications. I appreciate the spirit and the belief some candidates have in their potential. Often, they’ll accompany their application with a heartfelt explanation of why they believe they’re right for the role. I’ve always said that recruiting is a bit like searching for a needle in a haystack – you have to “kiss a lot of frogs before you find a prince.”
However, it’s crucial to differentiate between having the skills to perform a job and having verifiable experience in that role. Imagine a hiring manager taking a chance on an unproven candidate. If things don’t pan out, they’ll inevitably face the question: “Why hire someone without relevant experience?”
In Conclusion
The recruiting world is ever-changing. The nuances I’ve highlighted above are just the tip of the iceberg. My advice to all job seekers is to be diligent, attentive to details, and always ensure that your application aligns with the position’s specifications. After all, your resume is your first impression. Make it count.
Resume Writers, It’s Time to Take Notice!
It’s astonishing that I have to emphasize this, but excluding vital information about your company and your role within it on your resume can lead to missed opportunities.
In just one week, I reviewed 223 resumes, and, shockingly, 52 of them did not provide any detail about the nature of their current or past companies. To put it plainly, these applicants failed to describe the industry or business area their company operates in. This omission suggests a lack of thoughtfulness that raises concerns about how effectively I can advocate for them.
Consider the sheer number of businesses in the United States – over 31.7 million. How can anyone be expected to intuit the specifics of a given company or its divisions, especially large ones with multiple diverse sectors, without explicit information? If you don’t clearly articulate the nature of your company or division and your function within it, the likelihood of landing an interview, let alone a job, diminishes significantly.
The necessity of making this point is somewhat mind-boggling. However, the frequency of encountering resumes that don’t describe what their company does has left me astounded. This crucial information is essential, so please don’t overlook it in your resume!
From Hearsay to Hiring: How Personal Indiscretions Can Impact Your Career Opportunities
As a seasoned recruiter with extensive experience in the field, I’ve come to realize the significance of a statement made by my friend and business partner, Rich Lavinski: “Dallas is the biggest small town you’ll ever live in.” This phrase holds true not only for personal interactions but also for professional engagements. In this blog, I’d like to shed light on a recent incident involving a candidate, emphasizing the importance of past actions and their impact on career opportunities. Moreover, I’ll address hiring authorities and the need for thorough evaluation beyond hearsay.
The Cost of a Mistake:
Recently, one of my candidates missed out on a job offer due to an incident that occurred almost three years ago. At a social event hosted by his previous employer, he regrettably consumed excessive alcohol and made inappropriate remarks. Although the exact details remain vague, the story of his indiscretion has spread throughout his professional network, haunting him to this day.
A Tremendous Performer Judged Unfairly:
It is crucial to acknowledge that this candidate possesses exceptional skills and abilities, known and acknowledged by those who have worked with him or know of his reputation. However, when our client, who was on the verge of extending an offer, discovered this three-year-old incident through a backdoor reference, they chose not to proceed with the hire. Instead of seeking confirmation or conducting a thorough investigation, they simply concluded that the risk was too great.
Acknowledging the Unfortunate Reality:
According to the candidate, this incident had never been a point of concern throughout his career until now. While he was understandably stunned, he never denied his involvement but was furious that the gossip surrounding the event persisted. Regrettably, this single mistake ended up costing him the job opportunity.
The Dallas Effect: A Big Small Town:
It is unfortunate but undeniable that Dallas exemplifies the characteristics of a big small town. People here tend to remember and amplify negative experiences far more than positive ones. This trend has only been exacerbated with the rise of social media. Reflecting on my own experiences, I must admit that some of the youthful indiscretions I engaged in as an ex-rugby player could have easily been publicized today, causing immense embarrassment and potentially affecting my professional prospects.
The Impact of Indiscretion:
It is crucial for both candidates and hiring authorities to recognize that any indiscreet activity is likely to be remembered or documented by someone, surfacing at the most unexpected times. Such occurrences can have significant repercussions, potentially jeopardizing various aspects of one’s life, including job opportunities.
The Weight of Negativity:
Unfortunately, people tend to remember and share negative experiences far more than positive ones. This has been a consistent pattern throughout history, and it is unlikely to change. Therefore, it is vital to exercise caution in our actions and words, regardless of where we reside, as any location can function as the biggest small town we’ve ever encountered.
In conclusion, the incident involving my candidate serves as a stark reminder for candidates and hiring authorities alike. For candidates, it underscores the importance of maintaining professionalism and discretion in both personal and professional settings, as past mistakes can resurface unexpectedly and affect future opportunities. Hiring authorities, on the other hand, must strive to conduct thorough evaluations, relying on verified information rather than relying solely on hearsay or unconfirmed reports. By remaining vigilant and considerate of the potential consequences, we can navigate the intricacies of any town/city environment, ensuring a fair and prosperous professional landscape for all parties involved.
Overcoming Ego in Job Searching: The Power of Humility and Acceptance
The job search process can be an emotionally challenging experience for many individuals. The constant fluctuations between feeling confident and deflated, encountering broken promises, and unexpected setbacks can take a toll on one’s self-esteem. As a senior recruiter, I have witnessed the impact of ego on both candidates and employers. In this blog post, I aim to provide valuable advice to help individuals navigate the job search process while keeping their ego in check.
The Dangers of Ego
When you become a hostage to your ego, your entire life revolves around your self-perception and how you believe others judge you. This mindset can lead to an exhausting and stressful emotional roller coaster ride. Every moment becomes a test of your self-worth, causing anxiety and potential depression. Unfortunately, this has led many individuals to quit their job search altogether, resulting in a staggering number of people who have been out of work for an extended period.
Embrace Humility and Acceptance
To break free from the clutches of ego, it is crucial to shift your perspective. Instead of being a hostage to your ego, become a host to humility and acceptance. Understand that setbacks and disappointments are part of the job search process, but they do not define your worth as an individual. By embracing humility, you can bounce back more quickly from setbacks and stay emotionally balanced. Remember that your most important relationships are spiritual, and fostering a strong connection with God can provide solace and support during challenging times.
Faith and Acceptance
Having faith and accepting things as they are can be powerful tools in managing your ego. By opening your heart to God, you can find comfort and strength in knowing that you are never alone. Faith provides the gift of acceptance, enabling you to face difficulties with grace and resilience. With this mindset, you are no longer emotionally swayed by extreme highs or lows. Instead, you maintain a steady and grounded approach throughout the job search process.
Advice for Candidates
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Self-reflection: Take time to understand your skills, strengths, and areas for improvement. This self-awareness will help you present yourself confidently during interviews and showcase your value to potential employers.
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Networking: Build meaningful relationships with professionals in your field. Networking can provide valuable insights, connections, and support during your job search journey. Remember, networking is a two-way street, and offering assistance to others can be mutually beneficial.
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Resilience: Expect setbacks and rejections. They are a natural part of the process and not a reflection of your worth. Maintain a positive mindset, learn from each experience, and keep moving forward.
Advice for Employers
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Clear communication: Ensure that your job postings and interview processes provide candidates with clear expectations. Timely and transparent communication throughout the selection process helps build trust and respect.
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Respect for candidates: Treat candidates with dignity and professionalism, even if they are not the right fit for a position. Word-of-mouth travels fast, and a respectful reputation will attract top talent to your organization.
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Constructive feedback: Offer feedback to candidates who have gone through interviews or assessments. Constructive feedback allows individuals to learn and improve, regardless of whether they receive an offer or not.
In the world of job searching, managing your ego is crucial for maintaining emotional well-being and resilience. By embracing humility, acceptance, and faith, you can free yourself from the emotional roller coaster ride and approach the process with a balanced mindset. For candidates and employers alike, it is essential to foster respectful and professional relationships throughout the job search journey. Remember, your worth is not defined by external validation, but by the effort you put into your personal growth and the positive impact you can make in your chosen field.
How to Increase Your Chances of Landing a Job After Graduation
As a recent graduate, it can be overwhelming to face the job market. With an average debt of $37,000 and a job search that can take up to eight months, it’s important to take proactive steps to increase your chances of landing a job. In this article, we will discuss practical tips to help you find a job and stand out to potential employers.
Start Early
One of the biggest mistakes that college students make is waiting until their senior year to start looking for a job. Ideally, you should start exploring career options as early as your sophomore year. Visit your college’s career center and find out what kind of business organizations hire through them. Take advantage of aptitude testing to find out what you might be good at.
Network with Alumni
Your college’s alumni can be a valuable resource when it comes to finding a job. Use LinkedIn to connect with alumni in your city or the city you wish to live in. Ask for an audience and be prepared to tell them that you are actively looking for a job. Most alumni are more than happy to help out a fellow graduate.
Get an Internship
Students who graduate with internships on their record have a much greater probability of finding a good job faster than those who don’t. It doesn’t really matter whether these internships are paid or not and it may not even matter how long they were. Internships tell prospective employers that you really care about your future.
Be Involved
Being involved in a number of leadership positions and extracurricular activities is also positive, as long as your grades are decent. This shows that you are well-rounded and capable of managing your time effectively.
Consider Your ROI
Before investing more than $100,000 in college, it’s important to consider your return on investment (ROI). Ask the admissions people at your prospective college or university, “what is the starting salary of the graduates from your school?” This will give you an idea of what you can expect to earn after graduation and whether or not your investment is worth it.
By following these tips, you can increase your chances of landing a job after graduation and start your career on the right foot.
