Three Easy Ways to Not Annoy Recruiters
I’m not a recruiter, but I work with lots of them and the undergraduate students they are looking to hire. Sometimes little things can have a big impact on the application process. Three quick ways to be a better candidate:
1. Use your first and last name in your resume file name
I receive a lot of emails with attached files labeled “Resume”. Later, I have no idea which resume belongs to whom. Annoying. For HR people receiving hundreds of emailed resumes a day, that’s a problem. Make it as easy as possible for a recruiter to save, forward and find the information you send.
2. Don’t say, “I’ll do anything”
No, you probably won’t. Or, you’ll be hired into a position, figure out it isn’t a good fit and then quit. Recruiters don’t look good when the hires they recommended leave the company right away. Saying “I’ll do anything” does not demonstrate flexibility, it makes a candidate seem indecisive or impetuous and is a red flag. Know how your skills and experiences will add value to the organization. Don’t expect the employer to figure it out for you.
3. Treat everyone with respect
This should go without saying, but nerves or stress can change our normal behavior. Be polite to everyone you meet during company visits, from the parking lot attendant, to the receptionist, to the person in the elevator. It’s disappointing to see a stellar candidate totally blow the interview by behaving rudely when they let their guard down or get flustered. You never know who will have input in hiring decisions.
Kelly-
Do you know of any good recruiting agencies in the Madison or Milwaukee area? If you do not remember me, I am Elizabeth’s younger brother and I will be completing my MBA in a week from West Virginia Wesleyan College. Elizabeth sent me your blog and I decided to check it out. I am trying to find a position in logistics or supply chain management in Madison or Milwaukee. Do you know of any good recruiters or headhunters that I could contact? Thanks Kelly.
And yes, after living outside of Wisconsin for the past two years, I also can’t wait to get back!
Hi Mark! Of course I remember you! I’ll drop you an email with some ideas about supply chain management/logistics. Exciting that you’ll be back in Wisconsin.
Thanks for checking out the blog!
Hey Kelly,
I came across your blog while searching about higer ed. and student affairs. It’s a potential career path that I’ve been exploring the last couple of months. I was just wondering if you’d be willing to answer a couple of questions about the career choice you’ve made and get your opinion on some other things as well.
Thanks!
Nicole
heres my email na637716@wcupa.edu
You sometimes don’t know how this is frequently annoying, but please include your contact details in your resume. You might be the best candidate for the spot and the most unreachable at the same time.