1. What are some interview and resume red flags?
Red flags for the online interview:
- Rescheduling at the last moment (We all know that life can get in the way, but demonstrating the ability to manage your schedule is one of the essential skills for any job).
- Being in a noisy environment or driving during the online interview (Again, this relates to your ability to plan ahead and prepare).
- Inconsistent answers (First and foremost, be truthful and don’t exaggerate on your resume. Be prepared to discuss your experience, practice with mock interviews, and be confident about the numbers and achievements listed on your resume).
Resume red flags:
- Providing excessive generic or irrelevant information. Streamline your resume by removing common responsibilities (e.g., if you are applying for a Business Analyst role, omit tasks like "Conducted business analyses” and “worked with stakeholders.” These are standard job duties. Focus instead on your achievements.)
- A resume longer than four pages. Not every experience and project is relevant to the specific role. Include only details that are relevant to the position you are applying for.
2. What makes a candidate an “excellent candidate”?
An exceptional candidate generally exhibits strong qualifications, relevant experience, a positive attitude, and alignment with the company's culture. They display enthusiasm for both the role and the organization and possess well-defined career goals.
3. What are your thoughts when you see an unemployment gap?
I don't see unemployment gaps as a problem since we all lead lives outside of work, and there's no requirement to be continuously employed. For instance, I have an employment gap because I moved to another country. It's time we normalize the presence of gaps in our resumes.
4. What can applicants do to stand out in a resume?
Customize your resume for the job description, emphasize relevant accomplishments and skills, use clear and concise language, and make sure it is well-organized and easy to read.
5. Should I have a LinkedIn profile and what do recruiters look for on there?
Absolutely! LinkedIn remains the top source for recruiters seeking candidates. Your LinkedIn profile acts like an enhanced resume. Activities such as posts, comments, and recommendations contribute to your candidate profile. However, always keep it concise and utilize keywords and skills to make it easier for recruiters to find you.
6. Should I use Easy Apply with Indeed for positions that interest me or should I apply through the company website?
Submitting through the company website demonstrates greater initiative and lets you customize your application more precisely. However, using Easy Apply can be a convenient way to reach a broader audience.
7. Do recruiters still want to see a cover letter? Should I be sending a cover letter even when it isn’t being asked for?
My personal, unpopular opinion is that cover letters aren’t necessary. These days, they’re mainly AI-generated and offer little value. It’s better to spend your time highlighting relevant experience and skills on your resume.
8. In an interview, what will set me apart from other candidates being considered for a role?
Prepare well, demonstrate enthusiasm, ask thoughtful questions, and share concrete examples of your abilities and accomplishments.
9. What are some good sample questions that, as a candidate, I can ask the recruiter or hiring manager?
Ask questions. that demonstrate your interest in the role. Inquire about the company culture, team dynamics, growth opportunities, and how this position aligns with the company's objectives.
10. References:
a. Should I add my references to my resume?
Generally, don't add references to your resume unless requested.
b. What type of references do companies want?
Companies usually want professional references who can speak to your skills and work ethic.
c. Should I contact my references when a company asks me to supply my references?
Yes, inform your references when a company asks for them, so they are prepared.
11. Is there a way to prepare for situational questions and what is the best way to respond to them during an interview?
Utilize the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses. Practice common situational questions and reflect on experiences that highlight key competencies. AI can help you prepare for the interview. Provide the job description to ChatGPT or another service and ask it to generate a list of potential situational questions relevant to this role. Practice answering them.
12. What are your thoughts when you see a candidate with several short-term employment spurts? How should a candidate address those during an interview?
There are many reasons for short-term employment—a not-so-successful trial period, a short-term contract, budget issues, relocation, personal circumstances, and more. Of course, recruiters may wonder about job stability or fit. Be prepared to explain the reasons for short-term roles positively, focusing on what you learned and how you grew. Be honest.
