Gone hunting...job-hunting.

Ok--another post on job-hunting. I promise this will be the last one for a while. However, with this being my main endeavor right now, it's just on the brain a bit. As I interview, fill out application after application, take surveys, etc., I'm learning a lot about the hiring process.

First, I've learned that it's nice not to have a criminal background. That question is certainly on every application I've filled out. Being hired as a ex-convict would be a big challenge. Not to mention it would require a lot of explaining on all of these applications.

Second, most applications (especially for retail positions... I'm applying for holiday retail jobs, among others) are insufficient to really capture a job candidate's personality and history. The employers attempt, through surveys and questionnaires, to get a feel for these things, but it's pretty easy to see through the questions. I can imagine many people fall prey to what social psychologists call "social desirability bias." This means that you answer questions based on what you think is the socially-acceptable answer. I really don't think these surveys are effective in sorting out anything but grossly under-qualified candidates. In terms of job history, there is sometimes no space or little space to explain things like why you left a job, how you got paid (if it wasn't hourly), etc. These things make filling out applications frustrating!

Third, are these extensive applications really necessary for SEASONAL positions? Kohl's and Barnes and Noble did the best job of having a short-and-sweet application. Kudos to you, Kohl's and B&N, for keeping my life a little simpler.

I almost wanted to outline my suggestions and send them to the HR departments to help them design a better application. Maybe there's a future career for me? :-) I do like the idea of improving and streamlining this tiring and somewhat frustrating process.

Ok, hopefully that wasn't a downer. It's not all bad--not even close. I realize the stores need to keep out workers who would steal, not show up, or otherwise not be able to complete the job. But, can't I just walk in and say, "Look. I'm not trying to be rude or pretentious, but I'm a college grad who just needs a holiday job for a couple of months. I know I am capable for this job. Can you hire me, please?" That'd be a lot easier :-)

And, I do have two interviews tomorrow (with Kohl's and Target). The payoff is finally coming through! Once I find a seasonal job, though, I need to stay focused on the long-term job hunt. Alas, it's not over for a while. But all of this will sure make me better appreciate having a job! :-)