Candidate Services

It's a hard concept that most job seekers have trouble wrapping their heads around, but applicants frequently (and inadvertently) display signs that tell a potential employer that they're not the best fit for the job. Here are 10 reasons why employers might have passed you by.

1. You lie
ANY lie you tell on your résumé or in an interview, will come back to haunt you. In a recent survey 49 percent of hiring managers reported they caught a candidate lying on his or her résumé; of those employers, 57 percent said they automatically dismissed the applicant. If you're concerned about something in your past, invention is not the answer. Use your cover letter to tell your story, focusing on your strengths and accomplishments. In person is the best way to explain any areas of concern, if needed. And if you are working with a recruiter, ask them for guidance regarding your particular situation. Trust us, we have heard EVERYTHING, and more importantly, "we know our clients"- or at least the truly good ones do. (But IF a recruiter advises you to lie- do not do it and do not return their calls.)

2. You have nothing nice to say
Speaking negatively about current or previous employers is a good way to commit interview suicide. Take the time to find a way to turn those negative into positives. For example, if you can't get along with your co-workers, inform the prospective employer that you're looking for a work environment where you feel like everyone is driven by a team agenda and that your current employment does not foster such opportunities. But again, make sure that is the truth and take a long look in the mirror to make certain you’re not the fly in the ointment creating the problems.

3. You lack commitment
Employers want people in their organization to work their way up, so it's best to show that you want to and can grow with the company. If you were asked where you see yourself in five years and you gave an answer that wasn't related to the position or company with whom you're interviewing, keep looking. Asking the question "what type of career movement do you envision for the most successful candidate in this role?", shows that you are looking to buy not rent.

4. You have digital dirt
Social networking sites and online searches are the newest way that many employers are checking on prospective hires. As of 2009 almost fifty percent of employers use social networking sites to research candidates. Thirty-five percent of those employers found content that caused them to dismiss the candidate. Give Facebook and Twitter a rest when it comes to discussing how drunk you got last weekend, how much your miss your ex-whatever, or what you really think of the current political administration.

5. You don't know jack
Coming to the interview with no knowledge of the company is another way to insure you remain unemployed. Not asking good questions can cost you as well. Plain and simple, do your homework. Stop your twittering, Internet surfing and whatever else you do all day and actually research the company while you’re spending countless hours online. Write down some interview questions that stumped you in the past, along with well thought out answers. Then have someone give you a mock interview. The more prepared you are, the more you stand out from the three dozen candidates.

6. You act disinterested or worse, cocky
A little enthusiasm never hurt anyone, especially when it comes to a potential new job. (This does not mean drooling.) Playing hard to get may work in the romance department, but you’re not trying to score your boss- at least I hope not. Appearing arrogant is just as costly- unless the job is actually seeking a “hired gun”. Really- need I say more?

7. You have no filter
Not only does personal information offend some people, but anytime you talk about topics such as your hobbies, race, age or religion, you're setting yourself up for bias- unless you’re job interview is with the ACLU. But IF, for some reason the interviewer opens any of these Pandora’s box type of conversations, govern yourself wisely rather than just wallowing in political correctness. Remember, it may be only a test to see how you might handle yourself in those akward social, selling or servicing moments with vendors or customers.

8. You are all about the dollars
As a general rule, you should never bring up salary before the employer does. Doing so is tacky and makes the employer think that you care only about getting paid,not about helping the employer succeed. When the topic does arise, be honest about your salary history. Employers can verify your salary in a matter of minutes, so make it easy for them and keep a copy of your W-2 in your brief.

9. You can't give examples
Hiring managers want people who can prove that they will increase the organization's revenues, decrease its costs or help it succeed in some way. So don’t give vague and ambiguous responses. (“Oh, yeah, I know how to do that- who doesn’t?”, or, “I’ve had a million situations where I had to step in and save the day.”) Candidates make a huge mistake by not clearly and succinctly providing specific examples in the interview. The more you can quantify your work experience when asked situational questions, the better.

10. You lack experience
Managers have little time or desire to train and mentor new employees- unless the job description specifically states otherwise. The more experience you have, the more likely you are to hit the ground running sans the hand-holding. Again, the best way to allay any concerns regarding your ramp up time or learning curve is to give thoughtful and complete examples of your experience as it pertains to the job, your work ethic and organizational skills.
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Appearance

Outdated clothes. Gray hair. Poor grooming. A negative impression is hard to unmake to a prospective employer. Ask yourself these questions:
• Is my wardrobe polished, professional, current and projecting confidence? (The word “current” does not necessarily mean young and hip. See Brooks Brother’s.)
• Is my hair giving away my age? (When was the last time you had it cut, styled or possibly even colored/highlighted?- which is best left to a professional. And if you’re more than 50% bald already- for God sake, shave/buzz cut that fringe!!)
• Do I keep my facial hair closely shaved/trimmed? (Only college professors and art collectors can get away with the overgrown garden on their face look.)
• Do I look like I take pride in my physical appearance? (Could stained teeth, bitten nails or a paunch that's fast becoming a tool-shed roof be a bit detracting?)

Resume

Don’t let your resume date you. Ask yourself these questions:
• Have I removed older, irrelevant experience and degrees?
• Have I played up my most relevant recent experience?
• Have I emphasized current tech skills- i.e. the latest computer applications?
• Have I played down inflated job titles, if necessary -- like vice president -- in order to avoid appearing overqualified (AKA too expensive or wants my job)?

Interview

Ready to show what you’ve got? Ask yourself these questions:
• Am I truly comfortable with the fact someone younger may be interviewing me?
• Have I kept up with current industry terms and who the players are?
• Do I have team player examples to show my flexibility, loyalty, patience?
• Do I project positive energy and unflappability?
• am I prepared for surprises, such as a group interview (AKA the firing squad)?

Salary Expectations

In this market there are a lot of talented young people out there with lower salary expectations than those who are established. Companies have this idea that it is not motivational to hire someone at a salary that’s 20 percent or 40 percent lower than their regular salary. To combat this, be prepared to explain what motivates you besides salary, but be careful not to come off as desperate. It’s a fine line to walk. A day before the interview, Role Play this part of the conversation with someone you trust.

Techno Savvy

There is an absolute perception that middle-aged workers are less on top of new developments in technology and society. Make sure you use social media i.e. LinkedIn, Twitter, Blogs. And be able to talk about the latest funny moment on YouTube.

Attitude

Although it might be hard to do given the length of time you find yourself in the market, but presenting a positive mental attitude is critical. Desperation has not only a look, but a scent and a feeling that takes over a room, its inhabitants and the cadence of the conversation. Remember what you bring: a solid professional network, historical perspective, levelheadedness and a depth of experience younger candidates can’t. You also belong to the group that will be there early and leave late- and not just during deadline times.
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So perhaps you’re feeling right now as though you made a gaffe in your last interview. Maybe you were nervous, or you thought the employer would appreciate your honesty, or maybe you just have no boundaries. If after reading some of the more benighted responses below and you still feel like you blew it, then I would suggest you visit our CANDIDATE SERVICES tab of our webpage immediately. Otherwise, take a moment to enjoy these very real interview answers below. No doubt, you’ll probably feel much better about your faux pas afterwards.

Why did you leave your last job?
"I have a problem with authority."

Tell us about a problem you had with a co-worker and how you resolved it.
"The resolution was we were both fired."

What are your hobbies and interests?
"Well, as you can see, I'm a young, virile man and I'm single -- if you ladies know what I'm saying.”

Why should we hire you for this particular position?
"I would be a great asset to the events team because I party all the time."

Do you have any further questions? (Here are the top 5 winners plus one more):
1) "Cross dressing isn't a problem is it?"
2) "If you were a fruit, what fruit would you be?"
3)"What is your company's policy on Monday absences?"
4) "If this doesn't work out can I call you to go out sometime?"
5) "How big do the bonuses get once you make associate? I hear it's serious cash."
6) "If I get an offer, how long do I have before I have to take the drug test?"


Why do you want to work for us?
"I saw the job posted on Twitter and thought, why not?"

What are your assets? (as in strengths)
"Well, I do own a bike."

What are your weaknesses?
"I get angry easily and went to jail for domestic violence. But that’s all in the past.”

Is there anything else I should know about you?
"You should probably know I mud wrestle on the weekends."

When can you start?
"I need to check with my wife on that one."

Use three adjectives to describe yourself.
"I hate questions like this."

Tell of a time you made a mistake and how you dealt with it.
"I stole some equipment from my old job, and I had to pay for its replacement."

Have you submitted your two weeks' notice to your current employer?
"What is two weeks' notice? I've never quit a job before, I've always been fired."
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Some careers are recession proof. Below are the ones remaining strong and several that are bolstered by these tough economic times.

1. Healthcare. Registered nurses, physician assistants, internal medicine physicians, dentists, optometrists, pharmacists, and physical therapy assistants. With the government stimulus package, Health Information Management will be the big winner. If you don’t know what EMR is by now, you have some catching up to do already.

2. Senior services. An increasingly aging population will increase the need for housing, home retrofitting, geriatric care management, and, of course, the aforementioned health care.

3. Government work. Regardless of your like or dislike of the stimulus spending, government jobs are on the rise and will continue to be for the next four years. Homeland Security, IRS, state and federal agencies across the board and the temporary jackpot of jobs- 2010 Census work.

4. Education. Local, state and federal politicians are calling for increased education spending and voters continue to pass education bonds. Community colleges should also thrive. More of the unemployed are returning to school to complete unfinished degrees or to pursue a new one. Now is an excellent time to consider teaching at any and all levels, if you, yourself, have the necessary degree(s).

5. Entertainment industry. During the Great Depression, the movie industry boomed as people craved escapism and had time to burn. That would likely be the same today: the film, video game, sports, and creative arts industries should be viable.

6. Utility companies. This is the classic defensive investment. Even in the worst times, utilities stay cranking.

7. Repairers. Home, car, commercial, industrial -- in a bad economy, the rule is don't replace; repair. For example, in a depression, struggling car manufacturers will more often opt to repair than replace a balky welding robot.

8. Energy industry. Despite all the media attention to solar, wind, etc., the nuclear industry may, over the next decade, create the most jobs.

9. Accounting. Bad times increase businesses' and individuals' desire to wisely account for every last dollar.

10. Law enforcement. Crime doesn't take a break in tough times. In fact, it escalates.

11. "Sin" industries. Jobs related to the liquor and sex industries have always thrived, in good times and bad. This is in no way suggesting illegal activities, but rather the jobs in these industries that can produce a W-2.

12. The clergy. People seek spiritual support in tough times. Maybe that calling you have long ignored can no longer be dismissed.

13. The repossession, foreclosure and debt collection industries. For example, there will be jobs repossessing the big SUVs from owners who knew they couldn't afford them, but took advantage of no-qualification loans.
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The latest numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics* showed 22 states recording measurably lower unemployment rates than the national average -- 7.2 percent -- in December 2008. Since December 2007, employment has risen in eight states and the District of Columbia. Wyoming had the largest increase in employment over the year (2.2 percent), followed by Texas, Oklahoma, Alaska and South Dakota. Below are 22 states where you might want to start your job search, as they have lower unemployment rates than the national average:

1. Wyoming 3.4% Total employment: 293,900 Mean annual salary: $36,110**
2. North Dakota 3.5% Total employment: 371,500 Mean annual salary: $33,650
3. South Dakota 3.9% Total employment: 445,900 Mean annual salary: $31,540
4. Nebraska 4.0% Total employment: 997,600 Mean annual salary: $35,270
5. Utah 4.3% Total employment: 1,383,000 Mean annual salary: $37,080
6. Iowa 4.6% Total employment: 1,671,900 Mean annual salary: $34,650
7. New Hampshire 4.6% Total employment: 739,500 Mean annual salary: $40,780
8. New Mexico 4.9% Total employment: 966,100 Mean annual salary: $35,790
9. Oklahoma 4.9% Total employment: 1,768,900 Mean annual salary: $33,720
10. West Virginia 4.9% Total employment: 800,000 Mean annual salary: $32,310
11. Kansas 5.2% Total employment: 1,506,600 Mean annual salary: $36,300
12. Montana 5.4% Total employment: 505,700 Mean annual salary: $32,640
13. Virginia 5.4% Total employment: 4,159,500 Mean annual salary: $42,880
14. Hawaii 5.5% Total employment: 661,700 Mean annual salary: $40,200
15. Maryland 5.8% Total employment: 2,995,600 Mean annual salary: $45,780
16. Louisiana 5.9% Total employment: 2,061,100 Mean annual salary: $34,060
17. Texas 6.0% Total employment: 11,853,800 Mean annual salary: $37,880
18. Colorado 6.1% Total employment: 2,750,100 Mean annual salary: $43,100
19. Arkansas 6.2% Total employment: 1,370,300 Mean annual salary: $32,450
20. Delaware 6.2% Total employment: 445,300 Mean annual salary: $43,020
21. Wisconsin 6.2% Total employment: 3,094,300 Mean annual salary: $38,070
22. Vermont 6.4% Total employment: 356,900 Mean annual salary: $38,060

The latest numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics* showed six states recording rates of 9 percent or more. Overall, 10 states had significantly higher jobless rates than the average and 18 had similar rates. Michigan recorded the highest unemployment rate at 10.6 percent, followed closely by Rhode Island at 10.0 percent.

The largest numerical decrease in employment since November 2008 was in California, which lost 78,200 jobs, followed by Michigan, New York, Illinois, Indiana and North Carolina, respectively. Idaho saw the largest percentage cut in employment since December 2008 (1.6 percent), followed by Michigan, Hawaii and Indiana.

All 50 states and the District of Columbia had considerable jobless rate increases since December 2007. Rhode Island had the highest rate increase over the year (4.5 percent), followed by Arizona and Idaho (4.3 percentage points each), Michigan (4.1 percentage point each) and Indiana (3.7 percent). Nine other states and the District of Columbia recorded increases of 3 percentage points or more since December 2007 and 36 states had smaller, but still significant, increases.

Here are 15 states with unemployment rates higher than the national average and that have seen momentous rate increases since last year. If you're having trouble finding a job and you live in one of the following states, know that you might not be the (only) reason behind your unemployment:

1. Michigan ... 10.6%
December 2007: 7.4% Over-the-year rate change: 3.2% Mean annual salary: $42,210
2. Rhode Island ... 10.0%
December 2007: 5.2% Over-the-year rate change: 4.8% Mean annual salary: $42,210
3. South Carolina ... 9.5%
December 2007: 6.2% Over-the-year rate change: 3.3% Mean annual salary: $34,650
4. California ... 9.3%
December 2007: 5.9% Over-the-year rate change: 3.4% Mean annual salary: $45,990
5. Nevada ... 9.1%
December 2007: 5.2% Over-the-year rate change: 3.9% Mean annual salary: $16,750
6. Oregon ... 9.0%
December 2007: 5.4% Over-the-year rate change: 3.6% Mean annual salary: $40,040
7. District of Columbia ... 8.8%
December 2007: 5.7% Over-the-year rate change: 3.1% Mean annual salary: $64,150
8. North Carolina ... 8.7%
December 2007: 4.7% Over-the-year rate change: 4.0% Mean annual salary: $36,900
9. Florida ... 8.1%
December 2007: 4.5% Over-the-year rate change: 3.6% Mean annual salary: $37,260
10. Georgia ... 8.1%
December 2007: 4.5% Over-the-year rate change: 3.6% Mean annual salary: $38,320
11. Mississippi ... 8.0%
December 2007: 6.3% Over-the-year rate change: 1.7% Mean annual salary: $31,730
12. Tennessee ... 7.9%
December 2007: 5.0% Over-the-year rate change: 2.9% Mean annual salary: $35,380
13. Kentucky ... 7.8%
December 2007: 5.1% Over-the-year rate change: 1.9% Mean annual salary: $34,950
14. Ohio ... 7.8%
December 2007: 5.8% Over-the-year rate change: 2.0% Mean annual salary: $38,640
15. Illinois ... 7.6%
December 2007: 5.3% Over-the-year rate change: 2.3% Mean annual salary: $43,050

*Most recent numbers released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics on Jan. 27, 2009.
**Mean annual salary per state, according to the Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates, May 2007, Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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