There’s No Denying It, Thoroughness Is Key..I’m almost certain this isn’t anything new in our world, but now is my time to bring it to light.
A vacant position needs to be filled within the organization so a posting is made, but within the posting there are explicit instructions to be followed on how exactly to apply (details later). Days go by and the realization is that, almost all – let me make this clear – almost ALL of the applicants grotesquely ignore the instructions in the posting. I know “Idiocrasy” hasn’t come to fruition yet, so how does one explain this phenomenon? Let’s dig in.
The posting explains that in order to apply, one must submit a URL to their LinkedIn and any other personal social profiles as well as a brief synopsis of why the candidate is a good fit for the role. It also instructs NOT to submit a resume. One could view this as weeding out the candidates with a lack of attention to detail, or a sadistic trap for the unwary candidate, casting their resume to the world in hopes for a bite – your opinions are your own.
The results show that 90% of the applicants uploaded their resume and submitted the application, while 10% followed the request. You know who is going to get a response? I think you do.
This was one candidate’s response when pushed them on why they didn’t follow instructions:
I understand that in this day in age speed is king and efficiency is euphoria, but where is the thoroughness? Unfortunately, this mass speed applying is more indicative of future behavior than one might think. What it hints at is a limited effort mindset. If a candidate is not even willing to read the job posting, what can you expect when anything needs to be accomplished, whether it be a sales cycle, a quarterly report, etc?
The real goal of non traditional application methods is to get a unique perspective on what the candidate is capable of and how they choose to go about it. There is a prime opportunity to create differentiation between yourself and the other candidates. I personally love the opportunity to show my voice in my own unique structure. Yes, there are cover letters, but even then the first thing you look up is “cover letter structure” to make sure you are following the archaic guidelines.
Here’s one example where a candidate not only followed instructions but also went a step further to tie a correlation with her and Keenan’s love for skiing (A Sales Guy’s Founder & CEO if you didn’t know that already)
By doing the slightest bit of research about Keenan and A Sales Guy, inc along with following instructions this candidate separated themselves from the pack.
When it comes down to it, very viable candidates are shooting themselves in the foot by not taking the time to go through the details. This should be an area of focus moving forward. If you are one of the “upload, submit, on-to-the-next” types, don’t take offense to this. Maybe this is what you needed to hear. Take your time, be thorough, and FEEL the positive results of accomplishment.
Here are a few things to take-away for your next job hunt –
- READ THE JOB DESCRIPTION – Please, for your sake and ours. You need to understand if the position is truly a good fit for you and your vision of the future. I understand the “it’s a numbers game” approach, especially if it is for a sales role, that’s what we’ve been taught, but take a little extra time to mitigate wasting ours and potentially more of yours.
- FIND A WAY TO DIFFERENTIATE – I am not going to go into how this is done – that’s a separate topic. One thing I will say though, creativity will get you further. Whether it’s humor or outstanding syntax, you are unique, show me why and possibly entertain me in the process.
- BE THOROUGH – I know this seems repetitive to number one, but this is meant for all aspects of life. Don’t be quick to make an impulsive decision. Take your time to understand the opportunities and consequences of your choices and actions. Tony Robbins will tell you that everything in your life is the derivative of a choice. Thoroughness will allow you to make the most advantageous choices.
NIMDIN – A little saying I am starting to live by. No Idle Moments. Do It Now. We are creatures of action, so get a move on.
And if this post resonated with you and you want to show us what you’re made of, check out this posting and send me (info@asalesguy.com) what you’re all about.
Thanks for reading!
<>Max