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HR & Job Seeker Etiquette

May 24, 2011 by

In the dating scene it’s a common complaint. “Why didn’t he call back?” But the same thing happens in the job market, as job seekers are left in the dark, even after several interviews with multiple people in the company. It looks like things are close, but then they never hear from them again.

This has problem has always existed, but it’s even worse now with over 15 million people out of work and for much longer periods of time. Job seekers are feeling more vulnerable than in the past.

One reason for the rudeness could be that HR departments are completely overwhelmed right now. Many of them are barely able to handle the applicants and interviews they have, and just don’t have the time to respond to everyone that applies.

Whatever the case, to the job seeker, who is putting in so much time and energy into finding a job, a courtesy call or letter would at least make them feel that they are being treated like a human being. And they could begin to set their sights on a different company or job instead of waiting for the phone to ring.

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What Job Seekers Shouldn’t Say

May 8, 2011 by

So, you’ve done the work to get the interview and now you’re finally in front of the person who could hire you. Don’t blow it by revealing too much information.

Your age, religion, health, and marital status is off the table, but crafty HR people may try to get around that by asking other questions. Don’t be tripped up.

Unless your health is important for the job you’re doing, there’s no need to mention your cancer scare or past illnesses.

Sexual orientation is no one’s business and there’s no reason to mention it. Same with religion or politics.

Stick to the job at hand and give them all of the reasons why you are the very best person out there to help them solve problems.



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Job Interview Mistakes

January 13, 2011 by

Since I’ve been putting on job fairs I spend a lot of time talking to recruiters and HR. As tough as the job market is out there I’m constantly shocked at the mistakes people make once they actually get in the door for an interview.

The first one kind of surprises me and that’s the inappropriate dress. I’ve also seen this at job fairs quite a lot. A job fair should be treated like an interview. You should dress appropriately for both of them.

I have seen people waiting in line in flip flops, tons of gold chains around their neck, very low cut blouses, sweat pants, and mini skirts. I’m not making this stuff up! I’ve also heard the same thing from HR professionals. It’s shocking.

Another interview mistake would be texting and answering your cell phone in an interview. Turn it off or just leave it at home. You would think that would be common sense.

After working the entertainment business in casting, I am aware of another big mistake…missing an interview or showing up late. It’s hard enough to get that interview, especially these days. If you can’t make it or you are going to be late (and it had better be a really good reason), then at least call. It’s common courtesy.

Above all, use common sense!



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86% of Firms Would Take Jobseekers With No Experience

November 30, 2010 by

A new statistic from the Irish website Gumtree.ie about job seekers in that country:
A survey has revealed that 86% of HR professionals would consider a job applicant without direct relevant experience if they can prove that they have the right skills for the role.

The survey, commissioned by Gumtree.ie, also reports that 71% of jobseekers are prepared to step down and take on more junior roles in order to land a job and more than half of all jobseekers (57%) are willing to take a substantial pay cut.

The survey results also show that more than half of HR professionals have seen applicants trying to change careers in the last 12 months by cross skilling or repackaging of skills.

The findings are the result of a survey commissioned by local online noticeboard and leading jobs site Gumtree.ie.

Gumtree.com was created in London in March 2000 and now covers 60 cities across Europe, North America, South America, Australia, New Zealand and Asia with a total of 101 websites.

Gumtree launched its Irish site, Gumtree.ie in 2007 and users can specify between two cities – Dublin and Cork.

Read more: http://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/survey-86-of-firms-would-take-jobseekers-with-no-experience-483872.html#ixzz16nALqcXJ



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