What happened to professional courtesy?

The number of resumes sent for job openings are a record numbers, but having seen some in recent months, almost all are suited only for the trash can. Either they're completely unqualified, can't follow instructions, or write a miserable, unappealing cover letter. My advice: if you're really qualified, write a compelling cover letter that stands out. Editors and HR people are so punch drunk from looking at so many no-hopers that they're likely to fall asleep looking at yours unless you give them a reason.

 

PT, if you're talking about acknowledging every application received, and updating every applicant on the status of the job search, then I'm afraid we still don't agree. Communications IS easier these days -- but time is at a premium for a lot of bosses.

 

Look at it this way... everybody is busy. And everybody's been the person waiting for someone to get back to them about a possible future that will impact their life forever. It's not unimportant. Sometimes being first rate means taking the harder path. That's why there is a difference. When these things happen... who do you want to work for? The person who is "too busy" to be a complete pro, or the person who will cut corners? Because some day, that same person will make other decisions about your life.

 

I agree with much of what everyone's saying, and I see both sides, having been on both sides of the table recently. I, too, can't relate to getting 300 resumes. I had a hard enough time with 30. And I had the same problem: some people woefully unqualified.

As playthrough said, though .. there has to be a better way. We are in the communication business, after all.

I did receive a response to a package I sent out last night .. an auto response. But that's something. A little bit of courtesy goes a long way.

 

I can certainly live with an automated response via email.

two examples: I applied for a job at a state university, application packet send via mail.Got a nice email acknowledging my application and letting me know I would hear more in 4-6 weeks. I really appreciated that.

Also applied to a certain sports conference for a PR position via email. Much to my shock, I got a regular snail mail letter the next week. I expected it to be a rejection letter, but it wasn't. Just a letter saying thanks for the application and we will be in touch later.

Of course, for every one of those, there are dozens I never hear back from.