I am going to write this article from the perspective of a hiring manager. I have worked with a lot of job seekers while running LocalWork.com and have compiled a list of things I highly recommend job seekers to focus on, but today it’s different. I am going to share with you purely from a hiring view point what I must see in my candidates. This might give some good insight to those of you looking for a new job opportunity, or even looking to advance with your current employer. It’s one talking point, but one that has to be focused on. If missed, it can cost. I have seen the financial implications of many candidates because of this one item.
I recently opened up a new position in which I put in the job description “If you really are interested in this job, you must include a cover sheet entitled ‘Something Interesting About Me Is [Insert something interesting about yourself here].’ If you really are going to show me you know how to read and follow instructions, you must do this. If not, your resume will not be considered for this position.”
Now that doesn’t sound to hard does it? Apparently it was! Less that 25% of all applicants followed those instructions. I immediately removed those candidates from the potential of getting an interview. I was in shock. I went back in and read through the resumes of the candidates who had failed to follow instructions to find some really impressive candidates. Ones who had they followed instructions would have been top candidates coming into the interview. It all comes down to one thing… ATTENTION TO DETAIL!!
It is always about the little things. An employer is not always interested in what’s best on paper, but what is best for his team. I don’t care if you are scoring 10 out of 10 on a skills test. If you can’t follow instructions or pay attention to detail…you’ll have no shot with my company. This is a hard lesson for people to learn. But this is my promise…Great things come to those who focus on the detail! I was never the smartest in college. Not even close! However, I certainly knew how to focus and do things the right way with hard work and attention to detail. If there is one major take a way, don’t ever skip over instructions…especially when looking for employment. You’re going to miss too many great opportunities.