Alright Job Seekers, you had your chance last week to vent your frustrations, but let’s hear from the other side!
Today I’d like to hear what recruiters and hiring managers say if asked what frustrates them about job seekers. I’m sure I didn’t capture everything, so if your answer is “other” then please do add your answer in the comments section.
Oh, and thanks to Bridget Forney for the idea in her comment last week.
[polldaddy poll=3264167]
(polls)
Some of these comments are a little ridiculous, considering that the majority of you are probably contingency salespeople and that makes you oh, a small step above a copier rep. I am the managing partner of a small, but profitable boutique search firm. I respect my candidates- the people I take on- and in turn, get great placements. And my clients have me on speed dial. Could it be your lack of integrity and belief in your own prospects that make you suck just as badly as you seem to?
I find the most frustrating candidate behavior to be when job-seekers find out my direct phone number and call constantly BEFORE getting an interview. We have caller ID.... I can see they called six times, never left a message and kept calling until they found me in my office. Not sure how this makes a positive impression... although, it certainly makes a lasting one!
3 things annoy me with job seekers 1- That they don't want to do the work seeking employment (something will come along, someone else will find me work, i don't really need a good resume, this will do) 2- Agressive job search methods - I help people find work and often people use the phone in our office. They seem to use the UFC or NFL technique when talking to managers or hiring personal, a little too agressive somtimes. 3- Lack of professionalism, not clean, not the right clothes.
Darren, I totally agree with your list. I was the employment specialist for a group of about 200 20-somethings for about 6 months, trying to help people tighten up resumes, search and find opportunities, prepare for interviews, etc. I would add to you list: people who think they are more qualified than they are or who are unwilling to do the stepping stone jobs to get to their dream job. This is a tough job market. I would drive me bananas when we would find a good opportunity for someone who wouldn't want to apply because it was "below them" or wasn't their "dream job", even though it was the exact level they were in fact qualified for and a perfect step towards their dream job.
Hey Rachel, I like your addition. Most people think they are more qualified then they are, but we are trained almost to believe that. Very challenging situation for sure.
Hey Darren - I love #2 haha. Angry and mean always helps with getting a job! Wait, nope, it doesn't!
In a very competitive market (Therapists) it bothers me most when they don't get back to you. Whether its feedback on an interview, or responding to my call about a new opportunity. I understand they are in demand, but common courtesy would be nice, and it doesn't leave me hanging with a client.
Hey Tom - Thanks for leaving your thoughts on this. Not hearing back was the leading answer for the job seeker frustration poll I ran last week.
I chose "other". The most frustrating thing about job seekers for me is something I call the "boo-hoo" mentality. They take their frustrations of underemployment out on me when I'm giving them advice on their search and trying to help them!
V-Ron Luddy - Another good one. Recruiters sometimes are just expected to help find someone a job, when really it's not that easy. Work is often times needed to be done, and not every job seeker wants to put in the time and effort to improve their job search skills.
The wost thing is when anyone who is a job seeker begins to be 'THAT' job seeker. they seek so much help and often bad mouth so much that noone wants to be around them at any event!
Oh Ben - bingo. The constant complainer isn't fun for anyone. Very good point!
I have to say I'm usually the one using profanity in interviews as the interviewer. I use the phrase, "...as long as you get your shit done..." a lot in interviews. But a big peeve of mine about job seekers is....well, actually I have a few... Fidgeting. Like, sit-freakin'-still, damnit. Lack of direction. If you're applying for a manure clean-up position, you better be telling me that ever since you were a small tike you always dressed up as a manure clean-up man. Ya know? Hygiene. I've never encountered lack of hygiene interviewing someone, but often times people come in with a TON of fu-fu spray on. It's like, EEEAASSSYYYyyyyy!!! Thanks for the shout out. My ideas are quite brilliant. b
I feel like you come to my blog to unleash awesome ideas. Hope you are saving some for yourself. Thanks Fidget!
Fidget? Annnnnddd we're no longer friends.
Oh come on! I've called you fidget before!
I would have selected "All" if I could. None of those items showcase a candidate well.
Well, which one frustrates you most....I know many people would select all, because they are all frustrating, that's the point. But, which one is the most frustrating to you?
Also, you should choose Other, as your answer
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Bridget Marie Forney and Rich DeMatteo, Rich DeMatteo. Rich DeMatteo said: Attention Hiring Managers and Recruiters: What Frustrates You About Job Seekers – Poll Time! http://ow.ly/1QJ99 [...]