When applying for jobs, one has
to be very careful about the impression management of oneself and one’s
institute (this is truer for a fresh graduate). There are no two opinions about
the role of interviews and assessments in the hiring process and for the very
reason they have been stressed on much by academics. The focus of the write up
is, therefore, on other elements of the job seeking process.
Here is a go through of things-to-do
and things-not-to-do while sending out job applications and appearing for
interviews.
STEP 1- Be focused!
Being focused is by far the most
important and most ignored phase while looking for suitable employment. What
normally happens is that the job seeker applies at all possible openings he
comes across. And upon receiving the interview call(s) he considers whether he
really wants to work at that appointment or for that particular organization or
not. Not showing up for the interview on time or at all are the consequences of
not thinking things through beforehand, which brings a bad name both to the
applicant and Alma mater.
In order to avoid such situations
one should do a self-assessment. Make a wish list of desired employers/sector,
areas of interest and constraints. For example if the aspiration is to work
with brands, applying for a job in the development sector is not the best way
to go about it. Another important thing is to know constraints like relocation
or mobility and communicate them to the employer well in time i.e. during the
interview or before the offer is made. A lot of job seekers in their attempt to
land a job avoid communicating such constraints to the employer which cause
unpleasantness for both the parties later. If you are a strong candidate
otherwise, these things hold little importance.
STEP 2- Do your research!
In times like these when the
competition is tough, little extra sets you apart. Simple things like observing
timings and dress code are expected but having basic information on the
operations of the company shows the candidate’s interest in the employer. It’s
a good idea to have a question prepared for the employer on the future plans of
the company or company’s take on relevant ongoing matter.
STEP 3- Interviews!
Interview is at the heart of
recruitment process. Although different organizations have their own assessment
points but the general rule of thumb is honesty, coupled with preparedness,
capability and aptitude towards job.
STEP 4- The Result!
A player’s sportsmanship shows
when he loses a match, same way a candidate’s personality shows when he
responds to a job offer. Sometimes the job seeker has accepted a better offer
by the time another recruiter approaches him; here the best way is to thank for
their offer and politely excuse them, often it is a good idea to recommend some
good candidates. Display of temper and accusation on non-achievement are the
worst possible reactions which also ruin any possible future prospects with
employer.
FINALLY!
It is, in most cases, better to
wait for a more suitable job offer than to keep on switching jobs until you get
the desired offer. Several companies over a short span of time look bad on the
resume. Also the high switching rate and not sticking with companies for long
leave a bad legacy for the alumnus.
