Following yesterday’s submission, Robert can only keep us hanging for a limited amount of time until we have mutiny on our hands. Thus, without further hesitation, time for Robert to take the post home (if you feel a tad lost, check out our previous submissions and you will come to see the light)…
The Bad Candidate Who Does Fit: He nailed the requirements, but his demeanor was so uptight and arrogant that there was no way I’d hire him. Other such candidates include the gossip who could do the work but would be so busy chatting the work wouldn’t get done. Another is the profanity captain who couldn’t keep a civil tongue in just a half-hour interview.
The Great Candidate That Doesn’t Fit: He came in wearing dreadlocks and a three-piece suit… and made it work. Within moments I knew this articulate, talented fellow had every skill that I didn’t need and none that I did; he was such a great interview I wanted to hire him but I couldn’t. I was completely impressed and told him so; I just didn’t have anything for him. I remember this young man’s name (a feat for me) and have his resume handy all the time. Even if I don’t have a position for him, I keep my ears open for other opportunities I can recommend him for.
The Great Candidate Who Does Fit: You know you have magic right away. Professional, up beat disposition; meets all the requirements and seems a good fit for the team. This is what the interviewer prays for. Little bumps are easily overlooked (one said, “I know I talk too fast, can’t do anything about it, sorry” with a great big smile. She also brought in a well organized portfolio that was outstanding. At that point I was afraid I couldn’t afford her. Fortunately we came to an understanding and she’s the best employee I’ve ever hired.)
Do you see how important it is to be a great candidate? Well-prepared, great presentation? In both cases, when I hired and when I didn’t, I want nothing but the best for the candidate. That means looking out for ways to benefit the great candidate I couldn’t hire. I’ve received two jobs by referral from interviewers who didn’t hire me. And to be fair…
Sometimes Hiring Managers are Wrong: I recall a conversation with one of my best employees, telling him how glad I was I hired him. He pointed out I’d rejected him the first time he applied. I was surprised. “Yeah, I wore short sleeves so my tattoos showed, I had a nose ring, six earrings, and a lip ring, and I let my hair free, fanned out to my waist.” I did recall that interview. I’d made it short and didn’t try to break through the dark façade. He hadn’t made it easy and I didn’t do the work. Fortunately for me, he reapplied a few months later without the hardware, in a long-sleeve shirt, and his hair tied back in a ponytail.
Make it simple for the hiring manager; if you’re the one for the job, deliver enough information to make it clear; if you’re not, ask for a referral and move on. The great candidate will find a good job, so be that great candidate.
Rob Swanson, CPRW, DTALM
Education Career Services: www.educationcs.com
Career Services International: www.careersi.com
Thank you Robert,
dhuffman
