Sunday, April 8, 2012

Yes – employers behavior , as well, appalling too …

Treat others as you want them to treat you because what goes around comes around”. - Arthur Wing Pinero

Last week in my blog I shared stories about job applicants and their behavior when applying for jobs. The blog focused on how many applicants don’t return phone calls, call days later, are rude on the phone and generally don’t get it – they have contacted an employer for a potential job, and they blew it on their disrespectful, unprofessional and often sloppy way they handle a first contact – a first impression.

Got a huge response from readers. Most all agreed that the type of behavior I was describing from job applicants is just plain unacceptable – and they no longer wonder why some can’t find a job..

And I got an earful too …

… and well deserved.

Many commented, through my blog or privately by email or phone, how unprofessional and disrespectful many in Human Resources or other parts of companies have become. I heard stories about people going through three interviews, being promised a call about the companies decision, and never hearing anything. Other stories about never getting a call back, no response to emails and of course, sending resumes to never hear anything from a company at all. In my practice, I hear these stories all the time and it is a pity. Companies perhaps don’t realize how much of a negative impression they leave behind, and that costs them reputation and longer term business (see my story below).

I say it often – technology has made it easier to find job opportunities but at the same time, it makes finding a job so much more difficult. There is no protocol, no contact, no follow-up and no connection. You have one shot to sell yourself through your application or resume and it is tough to make that next impression through an interview or even phone conversation if you cannot make a “human” connection.

A few suggestions …
• To make a connection, find someone in a company through LinkedIn or other networking, and make a connection to get past just the automated application system.

• Send a follow-up note in the mail – yes snail mail – letting the company know of your interest and the fact that you applied per their instructions.

• Above all, try to get beyond (no you cannot get around) applicant tracking processing systems.

Think about your first impression …

It is important to measure and gauge a company by the impression they make on you. If you are treated without respect, rudely or feel that people at that company just don’t care, then it is likely rooted in the culture of the company. So ask yourself: Do I really want to work in a company like that? The answer is likely no.

Treating job applicants poorly does cost a company …

Okay, my story to share. A client of mine told me about her experience in applying for a job at a local car dealership, the name which I will keep to myself. Her family and extended family had purchased 18 vehicles from this dealership – and they were not cheap cars – over the past 5 years or so. That’s quite a bit of business!
She followed instructions to apply for a position, sent her resume and then stopped by to follow-up. She was treated so rudely by a person in the office that she turned on her heels and walked out. As she told me the story, she related how she told all her family members and friends too – they vowed never to buy a car there or recommend that dealership.

With her permission, I called the owner, who I know, and told him the story. He was appalled and as well thankful that I shared this with him. And yes – he made a few changes in the office – get the drift?

Treat others with the respect that you expect. Never stand for being disrespected. First impressions counts, and if your gut tells you that the culture isn’t right for you, go with your gut.

Thank you to all for your comments.

And thank you for reading this. - Dan

Dan Moran
President & Founder
Next-Act
Career Management & Transition Specialists
Celebrating 24 years providing career management services in 2012!
125 Wolf Road, Suite #128
Albany, NY 12205
Office: 518-261-4212
Cell: 518-641-8968
eFax: 586-279-4212

1 comment:

  1. Employees behavior is important for Your life your carrier.

    ReplyDelete