Top-ranked ghastly hiring mistakes to avoid
Hiring mistakes are made by both candidates and employers. Let's review eight of them so that you can avoid them.
Back to TopThe scariest part of hiring or job seeking is that you're never quite sure when you may be making a ghastly hiring mistake. Don't worry, the experts at Beacon Hill are here to tell you what to avoid (and provide a shareable infographic in case you need it) during the hiring journey.
Job seekers
Not applying
Minimum requirements are rarely actual requirements. Don't let them hold you back from applying! Whether you are simply devaluing yourself or suffering from imposter syndrome, there's no excuse. If you think you can do a job, apply.
Worried about your lack of experience? Provide a proactive solution to any skill gaps or provide unique elements that may be useful, even if they weren't asked for in the job description.
Sticking to job boards alone
Job boards aren't the only place to find jobs. You can also find new opportunities by working your network for referrals, applying directly on company websites (including bhsg.com/jobs), getting involved in your community (clubs and volunteering) or searching internally at your current job.
Don't narrow your sights. Keep them wide open.
Forgetting to build yourself up
The hours before and after your 9-5 can be some of the most valuable. Use them to earn new skills and certifications or to work on freelance work that supports your primary industry job. You can increase your value every day.
Failing to have references at the ready
If an interview goes well, it's smart to have a bench of people ready to praise you and your work. Don't sleep on preparing them.
Ghosting
We understand that job seekers have many reasons that may make them want to ghost, but it usually isn't the best move.
In theory, you can ghost an employer occasionally without significant repercussions. However, if you ever hope to work for a person or company in the future or have any ties to them, think it through so that you don't have any regrets.
By the numbers, "59% of those surveyed for Indeed's Ghosting In Hiring Report regret ghosting."
Employers
Closing down communication
Job seekers don't like being ignored. If there's a delay during the hiring process, check in with candidates to let them know the timeline has extended. It's only good manners.
Not being transparent about decisions
You can't hire everyone, but even if someone isn't chosen, tell them (and do so in a timely manner). You may want to hire them later on, and if you're kind to them, they may recommend you to someone else you might be interested in. Transparency goes a long way in the minds of job seekers.
Failing to foster a talent community
Proactively collecting resumes from interested candidates, even if you're not actively recruiting, is an easy way to success. Build your bench!
Have you made hiring mistakes? If we haven't covered them in this article, we likely have in another one. Browse our resources to find the answers you need.
Inspiration
