Once in a while, I get calls from job seekers that have been unemployed for a couple of months venting their anger over some of their unhappy encounters with employers in their job hunting process. After hearing their stories, I realized some employed job seekers that are looking for a change of employment are not spared either.

Well, over the years, we have heard a lot about job hunting ethics for job seekers – the “dos” and “don’ts” when looking for a job. But, I think it’s high time for employers to abide by some ethics when looking for talent too. Bear in mind, in today’s context, job seekers are evaluating the suitability of the company as much as employers evaluating the suitability of the job applicants.

What upset the job seekers?

1.Job seekers’ time is as precious too

Interviewers are not on time. Not five minutes, not ten minutes but forty-five minutes late. The normal excuse is, “I’m sorry. I’m stuck with something.” If interviewers expect candidates to show up on time, is it too much to demand same from the interviewers?

2.No time to read the resume before hand

“I was so busy the last few days. I was asked to interview you by the HR Department but honestly, I didn’t have time to go through your resume yet.” Oh, please… Give some respect to the person sitting in front of you. Obviously, this hiring is not in the best interest of the interviewer.

3.Keep your promise

This is a very common scenario. To avoid sounding too direct or rude, the interviewer may say, “we shall give you a call in the next two days to inform whether you’ll be short listed for an interview or not.” Two days came and gone. Decision was not made and your promise to update the candidate is conveniently forgotten.

4.No idea of the actual job

This usually takes place when the actual interviewer has a last minute emergency and somebody else who knows nothing about the job took over the interviewing role. So, naturally when asked about the job, the interviewer does not have any inkling what to tell.

5.Was offered a lower position or salary

Offer a lower position or salary way below the candidate’s expectation and stay convinced that the candidate may accept the offer. “What? Offering me at a salary below what I’m currently earning?” It’s embarrassing at best. My advice to employers: Don’t even care to offer the job if that’s the case. You only make yourself look like a fool!

Employers and recruiters need to understand that employment contract actually starts way before the offer. In reality, it’s very much like dating. Would you consider marrying someone who treats you badly at the first or second dates? So, there you go…

Do unto others as you would others do unto you – an adage that does not apply only to job seekers. As you can see now, it applies very much to both ends. What the job seekers are asking is a little respect. If you treat them well right from the beginning, you can be assured of a candidate that is more than willing to join you when offered the job. And as for the rejected candidates, I can bet they may very well end up as your best ambassadors out there!