There are frequent conversations amongst the recruiters in our office about why an applicant wasn't hired for a particular job. Obviously, we want every candidate we represent to go out there and knock the socks off a potential employer during their interview. However, we’ve seen recurring themes of candidates shooting themselves in the foot instead.
One way this commonly happens is through “fluffing” of one’s skills. In other words, when an applicant wants a position so much, they are not truthful or forthright about their lack of experience in certain areas. What the applicant often doesn’t realize is that this practice is self-sabotaging.
An interviewer can almost always tell when an applicant isn’t being realistic about their experience or is afraid to admit that they don’t know something. And if the truth isn’t evident in initial conversation, it most certainly will be uncovered during the technical interview.
So, job seekers, bear in mind: It’s okay to be human. Often an employer will favor someone who can admit his shortcomings over someone who is afraid to reveal that he lacks certain experience.
Sherry EdgeLink Sr. Recruiter
Posted by EdgeLink at 5:36 PM
Comments:
Wow - truer words have not been written.
I recently interviewed for a position and was worried because I did not know one of the Technical questions. When asked the question, I responded, "I honestly do not know the answer to your question."
Following the interview, I called the recruiter for a recap and said that I did probably did not get the job because I missed the question. A short time later, the recruiter called and offered me the job. She said I was offered the position because I was honest and mentioned I was willing to learn. I start my new job in a few weeks.
Posted by Anonymous at 7/10/2006 12:47 PM |
I really agree with this.
Besides, you might just land the job and end up getting sacked after a week. =P
