Reader Sarah Faulkner shares her thoughts on challenges for job hunters who can often be left wondering what went wrong after an interview.
Have your say on the issue by posting in the comments below.
While acknowledging Phil van Syp's concerns with job applicants and offering helpful advice (News, August 11), may I place the applicants' challenges in the ring?
Employers receive a huge number of applications and I appreciate the time involved in weeding out the shortlist can be frustrating. However, the time taken to collate a relevant CV and cover letter for a position the applicant believes he or she is a good fit for is often not even acknowledged (this includes large "well respected" organisations).
There are applicants who are nervous or inexperienced and present as "over cocky or too shy" without meaning to do so. A good interviewer can usually see through this if it is applicable.
It is helpful for candidates to see evidence of professional courtesy and not keep applicants waiting past the arranged interview time (allowing for emergencies).
Some job descriptions are not always accurate and applicants can come unstuck when the interview is in progress.
Job searching can be a very stressful experience and to those companies who do respond to the initial applications and give feedback if interview stage is reached are much appreciated.
Sarah Faulkner, Tauranga