One of the biggest eye openers for me when speaking about how to get a job is when I am hiring. We recently started a search for a new volunteer coordinator and it has been very challenging to say the least.
The instructions on the job advertisement were simple: Please send a resume and cover letter with salary requirements. Of the more than 50 applications I received, only three had a cover letter and two put their salary requirements.
This meant I had to e-mail those who had potential and ask them to send me their salary requirements. Then I had to wait for them to answer.
I set up all of my interviews by e-mail this time. A couple of people did not get back to me. Checking your e-mail is so important. Make sure you do not just delete your junk e-mail too. Who knows what treasures are in there.
I did also receive a couple of “applicants” by text or one-line e-mails. This is NEVER acceptable.
I do have to say I was pleased with the first round of interviews. When we narrowed our candidates down, we found several qualified candidates. The hardest decision will be to choose the one who will be the best fit.
There is only one position open so it means the other four interviewees will be not be hired by us at this time. This is something recruiters have to deal with on a regular basis. We might love you in the interview, but someone else appeared to be a better fit. Don’t take it personally, just keep moving forward. If possible, stay in touch with the recruiter.
I was also pleased that everyone sent a thank you note to us. I was glad to see they took the time to follow up.
So the lesson for today is in order to be seen, tailor your resume to the job, follow directions, and follow up.
Take care and best wishes-
Please send any questions you have regarding employment to:
sandi@christianhelp.org
Fax: 407-260-2949
Mail: Ask Sandi C/O Christian HELP
450 Seminola Blvd, Casselberry, FL 32707
Our goal is to answer many of the questions you may have about your employment search, resumes, networking, promotion opportunities, and other employment related questions you may have.
Note to employers: If you e-mail your job leads to cfec@cfec.org, we will share your job openings with Christian HELP clients.
Until next time-
Sandi
Sandi Vidal is the Executive Director for Christian HELP and the Central Florida Employment Council. She has over 15 years of Recruiting and Human Resources Experience. Visit the website at www.cfec.org.