Job Hunting: Worse than Real Hunting?

 Ever since I graduated college and started looking for work in my field of study, I've noticed how difficult looking for a job can be. Some positions are very easy to apply for, while others require applicants to jump through hoops and/or require a certain number of years of experience, even for entry level positions. It can be a lot more complicated than hunters looking for game out in the wild.

The Internet has simplified job applications and interviews. People can submit their resumes, cover letters and other pertinent details online. Companies routinely hold interviews via Zoom or other similar services nowadays. However, this ease doesn't necessarily mean that you'll be able to land the job that you want.

Today's job hunters have short attention spans. They want to be able to apply for jobs in a matter of moments. No one enjoys having to fill out personality questionnaires or endure a series of complicated and often unnecessary steps just to express their interest in a particular opening. If one listing takes too much time, they'll gladly move on to the next opening. 

Communication is essential between interviewers and interviewees. I lost count years ago of the jobs that I applied for and heard no response. I understand that some organizations receive countless applications, but that still doesn't mean that a company can't take a few seconds to send a quick email or text message, especially if a person interviewed but was not selected for a particular job. 

I can definitely understand job seekers' frustrations. After all, they just want to be treated with decency, dignity and respect, just like any other human being would. I'm not surprised to see certain applicants "ghost" companies after years of never hearing back from human resources or hiring managers about the jobs that they applied for. 

I'm not saying that ghosting is acceptable in any situation, but a little respect and effort can definitely go a long way. Sometimes, it seems like large corporations have lost their personal touch. I'll never forget the rejection letter that I received by a particular company after an interview years ago. The person who sent the letter signed "Human Resources" instead of their name in the signature line! I joked that I should have sent a response card and signed it "Applicant." 

Life isn't always easy in our Covid world. Workers are deciding that they want more pay, substantial benefits and to be treated fairly. They want a better work-life balance. It's tough to see people working multiple jobs barely getting by while CEOs and other executive level personnel are being paid thousands of times more money than the average employee's salary. The minimum wage in the U.S. hasn't changed in 12 years, while the cost of rent/mortgages/property, food, utilities and many other items have increased exponentially. Some people are having to choose between food or buying their prescriptions, paying for medical care or housing. We can do better, America.

Well, that's all for now. Until next time, have a great week, everyone!