Being clear about what you want in a job advertisement is one thing, but getting job applicants to read it is another story.
Movie Time's Layla Robinson placed an advertisement in the paper stating explicitly she wanted somebody with "a high level of spelling and grammar", "an eye for detail" and
"excellent customer service and computer skills" for her Ngongotaha store.
"I thought I made it really clear and easy, but I could not believe some of the applications. Of the 35, I could count on one hand the ones that did not have at least one spelling mistake."
The job included customer communication through the business' website, Facebook page and email and Robinson wanted somebody who could write correctly and represent her business professionally.
"Mistakes can sometimes be made in the workplace, but when you are applying for a job, you need to triple-check your application."
Having specified "a high level of spelling and grammar" she was amazed at the number of people who used text-speak.
"I required them to apply online so I could see their computer skills. At least four or five completed the form in text talk, using 'u' instead of 'you' and '2' instead of 'to'. I immediately put their applications to the bottom of the pile."
Failing to read the advertisement and write the application according to the skills and qualities required, or sending out generic CVs meant some candidates wasted Robinson's time and their own.
"If you are not going to take the time to try hard with your application, I don't want to employ you."
She could appreciate why some people sent out generic CVs in a blanket fashion, but said it was not the right strategy.
"I do understand some people are desperate, but if you do not have the skills an employer is asking for, you are wasting your time. You would be better off spending more time on an application for a job you are really suited to."
