Getting a Job

Getting a Job

If you ask me, its too darn hard to get a job.  We've gone from eyeball to eyeball applications, to online resumes, phone interviews, and computer screening.  Does anybody really know if this leads to better decisions?  Or are we creating barriers to otherwise qualified people?

I don't know if I could get hired in today's world.  Luckily I am on the retirement side of the equation.  I have no resume. I was too busy doing things to write down what I had done. Maybe that's why there are twins.  One person does things and the other keeps the records.  Unfortunately, my memory isn't good enough to recall in detail all those things I might have done that would impress a prospective employer. But I must have done something.  Along the way I graduated from college and medical school and raised a family.

But if someone asked me what I did, I would say I got up and went to work.   I could get some help.  A young dynamic 20 something business school graduate from Stanford offered to help me put a resume together.  I guess they are taught this skill early now.

I feel sorry for young people. What if you interview poorly? What if you are in need of a second chance due to youthful indiscretions or other personal issues? Can a computer deal with this? How does a resume show that you are likely to be more loyal and appreciative of your job because you now truly recognize the value of the job?

I am told by business friends that they have trouble finding "qualified" people, as if their jobs are terribly difficult. Yet I look around and see what these employees do, and I do not find many jobs that can't be learned by a reasonably articulate person who is willing to work.  The job hunting process more closely resembles rush at college, than a true screen of abilities.

Sure your past history is important. But I think it's best to consider the resume as a supplement to personal interaction than vice versa.