Being in the recruitment business for many years, I’ve met with thousands of people who are seeking new employment opportunities. For some, they find a new position in a short period of time. For others, the search can be more time consuming. Hardly a week goes by that I don’t meet with someone who’s having a difficult time and has been unemployed for several months. In these meetings I am often asked some very pointed questions. Questions like, “What’s wrong with my résumé?” or “What’s wrong with my experience?” or “Is there something wrong with the way I present myself?”
At times the answer is simply that the job market can be challenging and perseverance is required. However, sometimes, I do feel they could make significant improvements in how they present their résumé or themselves during the interview. It can even be a personality trait that may be standing in their way. Giving my honest feedback to a potential candidate can be risky on my part. That said, I’ve learned that the truth goes a long way. While it may be hard to share and even more difficult to receive, it is always the best course of action.
We can all benefit from someone else’s perspective, and I have been the recipient of some excellent advice and guidance over the years. In the long run, there’s no question that wise counsel from a trusted individual can be a huge positive for all of us, both personally and professionally.
Periodically people have been offended by my suggestions, and that’s unfortunate. However, more often, I’ve had people receive my thoughts in a positive light and thank me for my input and advice and have been able to use the information to their benefit. It’s particularly rewarding when they do make some adjustments and it leads to finding the right job. After years of interviewing a wide variety of supply chain/transportation people it’s rewarding to be able to share a perspective that can be helpful. So while the truth may hurt at times, I’m resolved to do my best to help when I am asked.