A current job posting on a major career site has actually stated, that they would prefer to interview candidates who are currently working, in preference to those who have been laid off. (I paraphase to protect Company X for making what I consider a very bad judgement call with this wording.)
At first, I found this statement insulting. In the current economy, people are laid off for all manner of reasons and one cannot assume they are poor performers.
But then I started thinking about my own experiences as a hiring manager and it's true that I gave preference to candidates currently working. That is, until I interviewed an individual who had been laid off who was, perhaps, the most interesting and qualified I had ever met. While the opportunity to hire her never materialized, she was terrific and I sincerely hope she found the job she deserved.
So here's what I'd like to say to Company X:
OK, I am in your less desirable category, but even if I were employed, such a statement would make me think twice about working for you. Those of us who are "laid off and looking for work" are qualified, motivated and capable. To assume we are "second-rate" and eliminate us from consideration is to give up the possibility of meeting the most interesting and qualified candidate for your job.
No comments:
Post a Comment