Careers in Real Life

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.