There are some things that people need to be mindful of when they’re at career fairs.
My friend Bob posted a rant on Facebook today about rude job seekers at a career fair. I could feel his pain.
Here are some things that annoyed him:
- In contacting applicants, he ran into more than one candidate who was unable to talk at the agreed upon time, forcing Bob to have to call back. What are the odds that Bob will call those folks back? Likely he will move on to the next candidate.
- Three page resumes, hard to read resumes, two page resumes not staples together, resumes with typos (I added that part!), resumes WITHOUT CONTACT INFORMATION ON THE SECOND PAGE. Unforgivable.
- Have a greeting on your voicemail with at least your first name. Otherwise how is anyone supposed to know they have the right person?
- Smile and say hello when you meet someone. Sourpusses just turn people away. You want to build relationships.
- Men, don’t button that bottom button. Not sure why. Just remember “sometimes, always, never” for the buttons on a 3-button suit jacket.
- Always polish shoes – a big thing for Bob and most people.
Bottom line? The details are so important.
Little things like getting the resume right, the way you button a jacket, shiny shoes. Pay attention to the details and the rest falls in place. Otherwise you send a signal that you don’t pay attention to details.
Job search can be a soul sucking experience for both candidates and hiring managers. No one enjoys being at loose ends. Having a plan with attention to details separates you from the rest and moves you closer to your goal faster.