"Because everyone eats cookies"

I have to add this in here; for the state of the job market right now and to represent the feelings many, some of whom I am very close too are feeling.

For all those job seekers out there. Finding openings, no, finding openings that you're qualified for, researching employers, writing covers letters and fine tuning resumes, interviewing, and worst of all... WAITING.

I had posted a quick blurb about patience a few months ago. I was waiting at the time for Maine Law to *cough* "get their sh*t together." I had respectfully hustled my application together in early January to arrange for as timely of a response as possible. I didn't hear back from them initially until April 10th. That's three months of nothing except a notification that my full app. had been received. At the time I was emotionally drained from frustration and a dwindling surplus of patience.

I speak to all those out there who are facing a trying time in this economy. Competing with streched thin applicants who are far greater than the number of jobs offered. HR department's are so flooded with resumes, cover letters, and personal inquires that provoked me to read into their behavior a little more.

Regretfully what happens when applicants far out number job openings is that the applicants themselves get the cold hand when it comes to communication between that of the job seeker and the employer. Those who are just entering into the job market right now are most likely flummoxed as to the lack of communication and respect returned in their sincere interest in potential employment. Because employers are so flooded with applicants, their ability to treat job seekers as customers becomes more difficult and the seeker ultimatly gets the shaft.

As noted in the linked NYT article (below), a Nabisco manager had mentioned that his company replies to every resume received. When asked why, he smiled and replied, "Because - everyone eats cookies."

He's dead on. Regardless of the industry, whether a company is providing a product or a service - their hiring practices are a reflection on their company. Poor communication, a lack of respect, and inappropriate interpersonal relations will strain the reputation and good will of the company of which many hire people to promote.

If you have the time, cruise through this article. It's a simple idea that takes time and saves (if not builds) company integrity.