WHNetwork Blog

The Rules of Engagement: Candidate’s Behavior (including your feedback!)

In the last newsletter I wrote about “employer behavior” and the proper etiquette that employers should extend to candidates during the interview and hiring process. This time let’s talk about candidate behavior.

There are basic guidelines that seem to be obvious, such as:

* Show up on time.
* Be prepared, have your resume or fact sheet with prior dates, contact numbers, etc. with you.
* Follow directions. If you are asked to fill out an application do it – clearly, honestly and completely.
* Dress appropriately. (more on this later!)
* Be friendly, make eye contact.
* Answer questions honestly and with some depth.
* Do your research on the company.
* Ask questions about the company and the job. (not just about pay or benefits!)
* Be flexible and reasonable regarding hours and pay expected.
* Be interested!

Seems simple, right? Apparently this is not the case. Why is there a perception that candidate manners are heading downhill? Are the schools failing? Parents? Previous employers?

First we’ll look at the results of a recent survey; then we’ll look at your comments.

Do you think candidates manners have decreased during the last few years?

What do these numbers mean to you? Is this representative of your experience? Look at the numbers on “dressing inappropriately!” Why is this number so high? I have to admit, I have mixed feelings on the “bathroom break” question. Not ideal perhaps, but we all know that at times, some things are out of a person’s control.

Let’s look at what you had to say about candidates:

“Candidates not having any questions to ask about the business and then just ask about what they are going to wear for a uniform. Or when applying for a service job state that they are looking for easy money.”

“An entry-level housekeeping position does not mean showing up for the interview in cut-offs, sandals and a cropped tank top on your way to the beach. You will not be dressing like this for the job, don't show up for the interview like that.”

“Do not bring your child to the interview. Yes, he's cute as a button but he will not be coming with you everyday (or will he?) so don't bring him to the interview and laugh as he pulls glassware from the serving trays. Show up with a child in tow for the interview and I will make the assumption you do not have proper child care arrangements made.”

“Calling repeatedly for directions to the interview is a no-no. Write down the directions the first time you speak with me.”

“It is perfectly fine with us to call and inquire about the job. Do not do so with children screaming in the background and say, 'What? I didn't hear you,' 10 times in 2 minutes. Find a quiet place from which to call at a time when you can be at your best.”

“If the job posting asks for an application to be sent, do not tell me you will 'gt bk 2 u.' Also, if you are looking for employment in carpentry, don't bother wasting everyone's time applying for the housekeeping position.”

”If the only reason you are applying for jobs is to keep your unemployment check coming in, waste someone else's time, please. If you accept the job, show up for work.”

“When you apply at a business that has posted times to apply and interview, respect that.”

“Please be honest, and say ‘I don't know’ if you don't. We can train anyone, but if you don't come with a good heart, energy, enthusiasm, and a smile, nine times out of ten, we don't need you.”

It sounds like there is frustration on both sides. The candidates and employers who master these skills will obviously be the ones to reap the rewards. Be it interviewee or interviewer, in these hard times, I think everyone should be polishing up their skills!

-Margie

What are your thoughts? Let us know!