Work Fanatic

I am beginning to think that applicants have lost their internal compass when applying to positions.  I have discussed this before but I find the subject hard to ignore given the constant re-introduction of it to the forefront every time I call an applicant who acts like they do not know the company which is calling, or what job they applied for.  As a partner, I take a keen interest and a discerning mind when accepting an assignment, ensuring that positions are of solid caliber and the companies we represent would be ones I would be comfortable working for.  In that, I expect applicants to offer similar time in their due diligence when applying for roles – knowing where they applied and with whom.  Are my thoughts that ideal?

I think not.  But I know this.  If the response I recieve from applicants is the same that direct hiring companies recieve when they call, it is no surprise that positions go unfilled.  Frankly, a good portion of the applications are rude when first approached.  You let them know they applied for a role through a certain advertisement resource and it is all too common to recieve the following:

“I am sorry.  I have applied to so many positions through so many sites.  Can you tell me again what the role is, where it is, and with whom?”

This should be enough for me to hang the phone up now.  in some cases it is all I need to ensure the conversation is short, especially if the applicant was borderline in the first place.  I wonder why people even bother taking the time to apply.  The acceptance of a call from a hiring manager, HR, or a recruiter should one that it taken with an understanding that this is what could make/break your ability to get a certain role.  That sort of professionalism is not present with a great deal of the applicants that apply.

Spammingis the abuse of electronic messaging systems to indiscriminately send unsolicited bulk messages according to Wikipedia.  I see starking resemblances between this and the approach that certain applicants take with the career approach.  The shotgun methodology that proves unprofessional when approached by a potential employer and there is no recollection of the application.

Word to the wise.  No matter the volume of your apps out there, keep a list.  Write down the details of whom/where/when you applied for a role and understand who the contact might be.  I am not saying that having a full out bio is needed to take the call, but quick reference is required to ensure that the client realizes there is a strong level of interest from the applicant.  Keep yourself fresh and on your toes, as you never know who will be calling.