Recently on LinkedIn, someone asked how business owners, recruiters, and HR executives find their best candidates. The answers to that question are valuable for anyone who is searching for a job. There are five key steps that employers take in evaluating a candidate:
- Check the resume for job history and skills. Recruiters eliminate people who are clearly job hoppers, with one position after another that lasted less than a year; they also eliminate applicants who lack the vital skills they need.
- Check the resume for intangibles. It may be important, for example, that the candidate likes to work alone or travel out of the country or make presentations.
- Look at social media. A Facebook or Twitter page may reveal that a candidate has a problem the company does not want to deal with, such as excess drinking or anger toward co-workers. Or a company where volunteerism is important, for example, may look for evidence of a candidate’s volunteer activity.
- Pay attention to the job candidate’s attitude during the interview. If a candidate arrives late, texts during the interview, treats the receptionist rudely or gives inappropriate or flustered responses to questions, that candidate is considered a bad choice.
- Be prepared to train the right person. For some companies, a demonstrated willingness to learn is more important than current skills.
Robin’s Resumes® can help you anticipate these steps when you are looking for a job. I write resumes that put your job history in the best light and make it clear that you have the right skills and attitude. The resume also indicates whether you are a good candidate for training, if the company offers it. Together, we can evaluate your online presence for consistency with your resume.
Let me help you become the ideal candidate for business owners, recruiters, and HR executives.