The care and feeding of candidates

Let me introduce myself. I'm looking for a job. For the purpose of this letter, it doesn't matter whether I'm currently working or not. I'm looking for a job. I am engaged in one of the three most important changes I will ever make (family, residence and career). Simple as that.

Or is it?

Perhaps not, at least not when it comes to other people with whom I interact in the process. So I'd like to ask you to put yourself in my shoes because -- when it comes down to it -- I'd really like to work closely with you, as you can be a great ally for me and I can be a great asset for you. I promise to read the accompanying article about you so I can treat you with the respect you deserve, but, for the time being, I'd like to ask you to empathize a little while I make a few points.

1. In general, if I'm looking for a job, it means I'm in some sort of career distress. Yes, some people are in better shape (searching while working), but it's a pretty good chance I'm not. That means that I'm under pressure -- time and money pressure. So, for instance, when we first cross paths and you want to screen me, maybe that can be done by phone, or even Skype, because -- if I've been out a while -- I might be counting the nickels it costs to fill the tank so I can drive 20 miles to meet you.

I know it's always nice to have met a person with whom you'll be working, but maybe we can cut to the chase a little more sensibly. I'll always be ready to meet you -- when appropriate.

2. I don't mind submitting to assessment tests; in fact, I think I'll shine. But more and more, I wind up being put through them twice by the same recruiting firm. That doesn't respect my precious time or my dignity, for that matter. And then sometimes I'm fortunate to be selected by you to meet the client -- and then get asked to do yet another round of assessments. I'd love it if you could rein this in.

3. I may be traveling a considerable distance to meet you, so when I arrive, I hope not to be kept waiting. (I spend enough time waiting in doctors' offices!) In fact, I might have another appointment after yours. I promise to be on time. Please see me on time.

4. I'd appreciate -- and think I deserve -- knowing enough about a potential job so that I can make as smart an initial decision as you and your client can. Nothing wastes more of my time than being sent out on a round of interviews, only to find out -- three weeks into the process -- that, even though I'm qualified, it would be a bad fit. Please let me know things up front, like complete compensation details, work environment, what the hiring manager is like, what their expectations are and so forth. If I can make a decision at this point as to whether I do or don't want to continue (just as you did when you first evaluated me vis-à-vis the position), we can either save each other a lot of time or move forward together confidently.

5. Job searching is a highly stressful process, and it takes its toll not only on the job seeker but on the family, too. Please try to feel my pain here. If you bring up an opportunity, I hope it's because you want to send me out on an interview, not just see which 10 candidates jump the highest when you say "jump." The letdown is hard.

6. Worse is when I've been sent on an interview and then weeks go by without hearing -- one way or the other. Do you have any idea how each day drags out when that happens? How each ring of the phone spikes your hopes -- until you answer it and it's the collection agency, not your agency? How it feels when your family asks each day -- with great anticipation -- if you've heard anything, and you can't even say that they've turned you down? Nothing. Your help in managing the process (once I'm in it) is all I ask.

7. Believe me, I know how competitive today's job market is; I've been getting kicked around in it long enough. I've been doing my best to compete, but if you have some constructive criticism, I'm all ears. Perhaps if you take a moment to help me improve something (because you see other strengths in me), I'll take the time to become that A+ candidate you want to present. Sometimes, all it takes is a two-minute conversation. I'll do the rest -- with your help. Just remember: I want to work as much as you want to make your next placement.

With my best wishes that I can become the next candidate your client hires while making you more valuable to them, I thank you for being sensitive to my concerns.