Observations From the Recruiting Front
We're in a fortunate situation right now: we're hiring for 7 different positions and we're flooded with talented applicants. Five of our openings are for summer internships, so I've been in contact with lots of college -- and high school -- students, and I've been largely impressed by the professionalism, enthusiasm, and tenacity I've encountered from this new generation of workers.
There are, however, several disturbing trends I've noticed in the three months I've handled recruiting while our recruiter has been out on maternity leave:
- Moms & Dads applying on behalf of their offspring. What is going on? I've been interviewing college students for entry-level positions for the last 20 years and this is the first time I've encountered this phenomenon (it's happened several times in the last few weeks). This approach will never work: I refuse to hire anyone lacking the initiative to job-hunt for themselves. Note to parents: you are not helping your child; cut those apron strings now!
- Applicants lazily sending one generic email to a long list of job openings. I will put as much effort into my consideration of your resume as you did in my job posting: none. I won't even acknowledge this type of spam-equivalent application. I want go-getters, not layabouts.
- Applicants failing to take the opportunity to distinguish themselves in cover emails. There are many competitors for the job you want. Sell yourself! Make me want to hire you. A resume provides the necessary, dry details related to your qualifications. Your means of introduction via cover letter or email is just as important -- think of them as a package deal.
Emily returns next week and I will be glad to hand over the recruiting reins once again. Warning to job seekers: she is just as picky as I am!
