Research: Job Search Process: Etiquette

Midterm Research Paper

Job Search Process: Etiquette

Liberty University

Business 472: Organizational Ethics, Section B03

Dr. Julia McMillan

The job search process can be quite intimidating to anyone searching for a job; it can be stressful and confusing whether it is the person's first time or whether he or she is a veteran. Fortunately, by following some general job search etiquette guidelines, even a new job searcher can increase his or her odds of standing out among a vast assortment of workforce talent. Many individuals understand that certain etiquette is necessary during an interview, but too often, they don't realize how much impact etiquette before and after the interview can have on their chances of receiving a job offer. Proper etiquette during a job search is necessary throughout the entire process, including the job search, application submission, phone interview, face-to-face interview, follow-up, and negotiation.

The first major job-search aspect requiring proper etiquette involves everything that occurs prior to an actual interview. This includes the job search, the application process, and the application follow-up. Searching for a job can seem very tedious; however, it is much more important to follow proper etiquette protocol than many may assume. While many popular methods for job searching involve no personal interaction, such as using online search engines, some job-searching methods still exist that require personal interactions. These methods include cold-calling, e-mailing, and visiting possible future employers.

According to an article in the Chicago Tribune, "if approached correctly, cold introductions can be a great way to generate leads and develop networking relationships that can eventually help you land a job" (Madden, 2012). On the other hand, approached incorrectly, cold calls can ruin a job seeker's chance of having an opportunity for an interview. Proper cold calls require proper planning and politeness on the phone in order to get through to the hiring manager and ensure his time is not being wasted. Cold calls should never be used in a situation where a job listing specifically requests "no phone calls". These requests are made for specific reasons; therefore, cold calling in these situations would be disrespectful and could easily demonstrate the job-seeker's lack of ability to follow directions.

E-mail is another effective tool in the job search process, when used properly. In a world of fast-paced technology, including text messages that commonly consist of shortcuts and anagrams, appropriate e-mail use is less common, yet more important, than ever before. With this in mind, it's important to realize what is considered appropriate during first contact. Similar to cold calls, e-mail should never be used if the company states not to use it. According to Virginia Tech, "For a first contact, e-mail employers when an employer specifically invites or instructs you to do so -- with instructions on the employer's web site, a job ad, a verbal conversation, other reliable advice, etc" ("E-mail Guidelines and Etiquette", 2012). Additionally, job seekers should address the e-mail to a specific person, be polite, and ensure accurate spelling and grammar. Regarding content, an e-mail should not include questions that are answered on the company's website. "If you ask a question easily answered on the organization's web site, you'll create the impression that you are lazy or unintelligent, or both" ("E-mail Guidelines and Etiquette", 2012).

Another method requiring personal contact is visiting possible future employers in person. This method of job searching is often effective since it uncovers available jobs that are not published online or listed in "help wanted" sections. When visiting potential employers, being friendly and enthusiastic, providing a resume and cover letter, and showing genuine interest in the company allows employers to see that the job seeker is truly serious about the open position. Similarly, being rude to the office personnel during a personal visit will most likely eliminate an employer's interest in a candidate.

After the initial application acceptance period for a position, applicants are narrowed down to the select individuals who are invited to a face-to-face interview; however, some job positions require a phone interview prior to the face-to-face interview. A phone interview is an opportunity for an employer to narrow down its applicants even more. During the phone interview, employers listen for several key elements, including the applicant's knowledge and experience for the position. Even though the focus of the phone interview is on an applicant's fit for the actual job position, it is also an excellent time for the applicants to stand out and win a face-to-face interview.

"Since recruiters can't see your face or read your body language, all of your enthusiasm and passion has to come across in your voice, says Diane Morgan, director of career services at London Business School" (Needleman, 2008). Applicants can ensure their enthusiasm comes across properly by standing up during the interview and adding simple gestures, such as smiling. In the article, How to Ace the Phone Interview, Karen Burns lists several useful tips that can dramatically improve the quality of the interview. She tells applicants to "smile while you speak. It may feel silly, but smiling shows up in your voice" and "stand up. It removes pressure from your diaphragm and gives your voice more resonance" (Burns, 2010).

Preparation makes a significant difference in the outcome of a phone interview. "According to Joyce Lain Kennedy, nationally syndicated careers columnist, most people don't prepare for screening telephone interviews as rigorously as they do for face-to-face meetings, [and] the casualty toll is heavy" (Williams, Plummer, & Hoover, 2009, p. 2). It is recommended that applicants research the company and review its website for information about the company's mission statement, purpose, and staff members. Knowing the name and position of the person asking the questions on the other line is not only a matter of courtesy, but it also shows a high level of respect and professionalism.

Once the phone interviews are successfully completed, the selected applicants are usually invited to individual face-to-face interviews. These interviews require etiquette and preparation,

...