Two ways to hire (and a wrong way) from Seth Godin

Seth Godin has done it again. I was reading through the archives of his blogs and ran across Two ways to hire (and a wrong way). Though I am currently employed and don't need to worry about trying to find a job in this economy, I do have a lot of friends who are still looking for jobs and having little to no luck.

The thing that struck me the most was his idea to have a five minute interview and then move on. While to the hiring committee this sounds incredible because they don't have to waste their time for a week trying to find someone, it makes landing a job even harder for those who are interviewing. Or does it?

I would argue that Godin's method will truly find the strongest interviewee in the shortest amount of time. People who know their stuff and convey a sense of confidence don't need an hour to let the hiring committee/person know that.

After listening to a manager at my office talk about his interviewing experience, the most important thing he said was the cover letter and resume. Makes sense. Then why do so many people not put effort into them or make mistakes?

My advice to those out there looking for a job. Make your cover letter short and sweet and to the point. Frivolous paragraphs about why you think you're qualified don't matter. If you're qualified, talk about it based on what the job description said. Who cares what someone they don't know thinks? Also, polish up your resume and make sure it fits exactly how they flew the job. And finally, if they call you to set up an interview, count THAT as your five minute interview and blow them away with your professionalism and be ready to answer at least one question they may throw your way.

Seth Godin's Blog is great and I encourage any one who wants to have little tid bits of wisdom delivered to their inbox everyday sign up for his blog. You won't be sorry you did.

Until next time...