Job Search Blog

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.

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.

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!

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

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

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.

Navigating the Fast-Paced Job Market and Avoiding Missed Opportunities

In the fast-paced world of recruitment, timing is everything. Hiring managers must act swiftly to secure top talent and avoid losing potential candidates to competitors. This blog explores a conversation between Charles, a hiring manager at a software firm, and I, seasoned recruiter, shedding light on the consequences of a delayed hiring process and the importance of agility in today’s job market.

The Initial Delay:

Difficulties faced in the hiring process, including delays, approvals, and missed opportunities.

Charles finally receives approval to hire Melinda after a prolonged wait caused by the director of HR being in a conference.  I inform Charles that Melinda has received a conditional offer from a competitor due to the extended hiring process.

The Need for Speed:

The fast-paced nature of the job market is emphasized, with candidates receiving multiple offers and moving swiftly.

I emphasizes the fast-paced nature of the job market, where candidates receive multiple offers and make swift decisions.  Candidates are motivated to secure employment quickly, necessitating prompt action from hiring managers.

Market Realities:

The conversation underscores the impact of market conditions on hiring, emphasizing the need for agility and efficient processes to secure the right candidates.

Charles expresses confidence in his company’s superiority but fails to consider the market’s influence on candidate expectations.  I highlight that the market determines candidate qualifications and salary expectations, which must be taken into account.

Overlooking Alternative Candidates:

It is important to consider all qualified candidates for a position, avoiding biases or restrictions based on personal preferences.

Charles admits to dismissing qualified candidates, particularly John, in favor of finding a female candidate as per his boss’s preference.  I point out missed opportunities in considering other candidates who may have been suitable for the role.

Scheduling Challenges:

Lack of availability hinders the progress of hiring. Efficient scheduling is crucial to ensure a smooth hiring process, minimize delays, and keep the process on track.

Charles encounters scheduling issues and delays in interviewing the candidates I lined up for him.  Postponed interviews and lack of availability hinder the hiring process.

The Impact of Delayed Hiring:

Maintaining candidate engagement and acting promptly in the hiring process are crucial to prevent candidates from exploring other opportunities.

Charles realizes the impact of the delayed hiring process on his company’s quarterly targets and laments the lost time and opportunities.  I stress the importance of proactive recruitment to avoid missed quotas and lost business opportunities.

Overall, the conversation between Charles and I highlights the detrimental effects of a delayed hiring process in today’s fast-paced job market. Acting promptly, considering a wider pool of candidates, and aligning expectations with market realities are key to securing top talent. By learning from these lessons, hiring managers can avoid missed opportunities and achieve their recruitment goals efficiently.

Since 1973, I’ve been tirelessly debunking a prevailing myth about job security. Despite my efforts, the misconception persists, so I want to set the record straight once and for all. The notion that there is more safety in working for a large company than a small one is simply untrue. Allow me to share the evidence I’ve gathered to support this claim.

Unveiling the Reality:

In recent times, the number of layoffs in both large and small companies has been staggering. Casting doubts on the supposed safety of big corporations, numerous prominent companies have announced massive job cuts this year alone.

Let me highlight just a handful of examples to drive this point home:

These companies, among many others, have collectively laid off more than 77,000 employees since January. This extensive list serves as a stark reminder that job security cannot be assumed solely based on the size of the company.

It is crucial not to fall prey to the misguided notion that safety lies within the confines of big corporations. The evidence presented here underscores the vulnerability of employment, regardless of the organization’s size. Whether you work for a large or small company, it’s essential to remain proactive, adaptable, and continuously develop new skills to thrive in today’s dynamic job market.

By dispelling this myth, we empower ourselves to make informed career decisions and navigate the professional landscape with clarity and resilience. Let’s shed the misconception and embrace a more realistic perspective on job security.

Although I’m frequently criticized for my fat-finger typing and apparent spelling errors, I know that when it comes to creating a resume, mistakes are simply not acceptable. It’s important to have your resume proofread and reviewed by several people. While it’s not fair, first impressions matter, and when it comes to job applications, your resume is often the first impression you make on a potential employer.

Employers want to hire candidates who can pay attention to details and communicate effectively. These skills are vital in many roles, from administrative positions to sales to marketing and beyond. By ensuring that your resume is free from grammar and spelling mistakes, you demonstrate to potential employers that you take pride in your work and that you have the skills they need.

To make sure your resume is error-free, try the following tips:

• Use online tools:

There are many free tools available online that can help you check your resume’s grammar and spelling. Grammarly and Hemingway Editor are popular options that can help you catch errors you might have missed.

• Read the resume out loud:

When you read your resume out loud, you might notice mistakes that you wouldn’t have noticed otherwise. This is because reading out loud engages different parts of your brain and can help you spot errors more easily.

• Have someone else review it:

Another set of eyes can be helpful in catching errors. Ask a friend, family member, or professional contact to review your resume and provide feedback.

While it’s true that some people may succeed in spite of their spelling weaknesses, you shouldn’t assume that employers will make exceptions for you.  By taking the time to proofread and revise your resume, you can increase your chances of success in the job search, as well as make a great first impression.

Job seeking and hiring processes can be challenging and filled with misconceptions. Despite the abundance of information available on the internet, many job seekers struggle to navigate the process, and employers face difficulties in finding the right candidates. Here are some examples of the most common challenges and misconceptions that I have witnessed both job seekers and employers face in the hiring process:

Unresponsiveness of Job Seekers:

One of the most common issues that employers face is unresponsiveness from job seekers. Employers may receive messages from job seekers expressing interest in a position, but when they reach out to the job seeker, they do not get a response. This can be frustrating for employers who are looking to fill a position quickly.

Discrepancies in Resumes and LinkedIn Profiles:

Another challenge that employers face is the discrepancies between job seekers’ resumes and LinkedIn profiles. Job seekers may have different information on their resume compared to their LinkedIn profile, which can create confusion for employers. Inconsistent or incomplete information can make it difficult for employers to assess the candidate’s skills and qualifications.

Lengthy Resumes:

Job seekers may believe that a longer resume is better, but this is not always the case. Employers often have a limited amount of time to review resumes, so a lengthy resume can be overwhelming and may not get read at all. It is essential for job seekers to keep their resumes concise and relevant to the position they are applying for.

Unrealistic Job Expectations:

Finally, job seekers may have unrealistic job expectations. They may want a particular job without any experience in the field, which can make it challenging for employers to hire them over other candidates who have the necessary experience. It is essential for job seekers to be realistic about their qualifications and to apply for jobs that match their skills and experience level.

Overall, navigating the job seeking and hiring process can be challenging. Employers and job seekers alike face difficulties, such as unresponsiveness from job seekers, discrepancies in resumes and LinkedIn profiles, lengthy resumes, and unrealistic job expectations. To overcome these challenges, job seekers need to be realistic about their qualifications, keep their resumes concise and relevant, and ensure that their LinkedIn profiles match their resumes. Employers, on the other hand, need to be patient and persistent in their search for the right candidate and be open to considering candidates who may not have the exact experience they are looking for but possess transferable skills.