By Gina Beckman
Dear Job Candidate:
While I only got to speak with you briefly this morning, our short conversation left a lasting impression. I understand that you were calling about a high level position that interested you and I am even willing to bet that you have a ton of great experience that would make you an ideal candidate for the job.
But let me be frank. You are probably never going to get an interview; and let me tell you why.
When I answered your call it seems that you assumed I was the receptionist or administrative assistant; and that being the case, you spoke to me in a manner that most generously could be described as a dismissive and terse. You apparently were too busy to answer my questions and instead treated me like a pesky child you needed to dismiss in order to get to the real decision makers. I get it. I do.
But here’s the deal. I am not an admin; I am a director who has been with the company for eight years and who has spent a great deal of that time as an employment, marketing and operations consultant. As luck would have it, I just happened to pick up your call when our receptionist was busy screening another job seeker interested in the same position as you are. Had you spoken to her the way you spoke to me, my hunch is that she would have had thicker skin regarding your disrespect (you see, she is treated like that more than she would probably care to admit). And maybe she would have forwarded your job candidacy on to the powers that be, certain that you would project the proper polish and politeness to those higher up the food chain. Yes, our receptionist is nice and forgiving and has spoken to your ilk countless times.
I am not one to hold a grudge; I am not. So the reason that I am not submitting you for that position has nothing to do with my feelings being hurt or me wanting to act punitively. It is just that your behavior on the phone was a reflection of your character and I don’t think any organization in their right mind wants to hire someone who is rude to others.
So Job Candidate, it truly pains me that you are limiting yourself and your future career. I wish you all the best and hope you learn from your mistake.
Be kind.
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