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Recruiters Reveal How Job Candidates Instantly Lost Any Chances Of Getting The Job (30 Answers)
The recruiter is kind of like a gatekeeper for the company. Their task is to ensure that any job candidate that gets hired deserves to be there. This is often easier said than done since people can present an image that's quite different from who they truly are. But every now and then, someone comes by who makes the decision a no-brainer.
There's a post on Reddit that asked hiring managers what are some of the biggest red flags they've spotted in a resume or during an interview. From lying about experience to oversharing about personal life, turns out, we folks can get really creative when facing unemployment. A bit too creative. Sure, hunting for a job can be really difficult, and the struggle can leave us feeling rejected, stressed, anxious, and overall pessimistic about our future outlook which might make us do things we normally wouldn't, but these stories prove that we have to at least try to keep it together.
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#1
We were interviewing for a higher level management position in a small company, in a very small rural area. The candidate was from a large city pretty far away. One of the panel asks a general question of how he sees himself fitting in with the community (position involved some community outreach) given that we're very rural. The candidate says 'oh I can be redneck!' and then proceeds to tell a joke using the n-word multiple times. He then laughed at his own joke and acted like nothing was wrong.
It was so f*****g crazy I had no idea how to react.
Alma Muminovic 3 years ago
Similar thing just happened to me with my candidate. Told the hiring manager’s he trained galactic warriors to fight aliens and that he was crazy. It was a first.
General Anaesthesia 3 years ago
"Don't let the door hit you on the way out".
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RELATED:
#2
I was hiring for a field technician position and brought three equally qualified candidates in for interviews. They all had sufficient experience with other contractors so all I really cared about was how they presented themselves and how they spoke to someone in a position of authority.
First two candidates were excellent. I figured it was going to be a super tough choice between the two of them at least. Then the third candidate completely blows away the other two in how he presents himself. He’s clearly very gifted and is super ambitious and I’m about ten seconds away from telling him he’ll receive and offer before the end of the week.
He starts telling me he’s excited for this opportunity because he feels his current employer is going under because of some poor business decisions over the last year. Signing contracts that they can’t complete and things like that. I ask an open ended question like “how would you do it better?” And this fella tells me something to the effect of “well, I don’t know much about business but one time I was working on interac (credit card) machines and found a way to add my personal bank account information to the machine. So I did that to help boost my personal income because I figured it wouldn’t be easy to trace. But don’t worry I cleared it all up with the cops and had to pay all the money back. Oh and that’s what the company should have done - find a way to generate passive income until something more profitable came along.”
I was floored. I just stared at him. I couldn’t even respond.
He asked me straight up how that story would affect his chances. I told him I had other candidates that probably fit the role a little better but would keep him in consideration for future opportunities.
Pollywog 3 years ago
Telling your potential boss you're a bad criminal is never a good thing!!
Stephanie A Mutti 3 years ago
We had a potential juror explain her source of income was embezzlement on the record in front of a DA and a judge. After we finished laughing at the hastily convened bench conference, the juror was excused for cause. No one had it in them to pursue a criminal case basically because she was honest sorta and picking a jury is exhausting.
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Cecilia Herrera 3 years ago
Wow. Talk about shooting yourself in the foot. "But don't worry I cleared it all up with the cops...." The only way he could have made things worse for himself, would have been had he literally worn a giant red flag to the interview.
Random Anon 3 years ago
Wow... I can't tell if this dude bombed his interview on purpose or some circuit shorted in that brain of his. And yes, it's stupidly easy to manipulate financial transactions with very little know-how. I would like to believe things have improved but from my time working with the industry I doubt it. These guys are the type that don't "fix" stuff until there is a meltdown.
Jes.the.Mess 3 years ago (edited)
Dude was probably hoping for an Ant-Man type situation. "Wow your crimes are so ingenious I'd like to offer you a high paying job immediately, despite the fact you got caught". Life ain't a movie. Being a criminal is not slick and glamorous
#3
The building was key card access so everyone else had to sign in with security and because we work with special needs populations certain things are simply not allowed in the building. All of this is explained when they get the interview. Security asks me to come talk to this guy because he has a chain wallet and a key ring with a pill holder and a pepper spray bottle all of which is is refusing to leave at security to come in for his interview. I tell him those are the rules. Interview goes acceptably until I ask how he would handle a client offering him money or favors in return for privileges or contraband. He laughed and asked how cute they were. The job he was applying for would have had him on a ward with teenagers. I literally had a meeting about how we were not hiring this person ever later that day with others just in case.
Lathari 3 years ago
Do not insult unknown gooey objects found in the sewer!
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Zophra 3 years ago
I would love to see the thought process here: did he think he was being funny? ugh.
Allen Bouchard 3 years ago
When I worked retail someone asked the trainer, while getting trained on the register, if it was OK to ask out costumers.
Load More Replies... Janet Graham 3 years ago
The applicant does not get it and never will. And I'm not only talking about the job.
KindredKiller 3 years ago
Wait this is confusing me, did he call the teenagers cute..? Sorry I sometimes have poor reading comprehension.
Luna 3 years ago
He joked that if they (the teenagers) were attractive he might give them contraband.
Load More Replies... #4
A woman that was 40 minutes late walk in on us interviewing the next applicant and demanding we see her first. Screamed at me that she had wasted her time when I refused to interview her.
Fancy that 3 years ago
When I was in high school we had to take a class that taught us how to fill out an application and how to conduct ourselves in an interview. Did they stop teaching that?
Robert Beveridge 3 years ago
I never got it (was in high school in the early-mid eighties).
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Nimues Child 3 years ago
A friend worked in the admissions department of a very prestigious grad department of a very prestigious university. A woman came in for her interview and started in by immediately treating the receptionist like complete sub-human dirt. The office noted this and quickly consigned her application to the reject pile. To this day, I'm sure the woman has no idea why this prestigious place rejected her application for admission. After all, didn't they know who she was?
Shull GaRett 3 years ago
When you did not need another definition of "entitled" but there you have it... Thanks Karen
Kelli 3 years ago
Quit downvoting for ridiculous reasons ppl. People get suspended for it. Move on if you don’t like it. That simple. Save your downvotes for real offensive stuff, not stupid stuff. This response does not warrant a downvote.
Load More Replies... #5
Mental health field
A guy told me he would have to try to convert gay clients to his religion and tell them how he felt about them. Again, this was what he chose to the question of how he works with diversity.
Kelli 3 years ago
People never fail to disgust me. Worked with a “born again” and she kept leaving Christian pamphlets on our Jewish coworkers desk. He didn’t even go to management, another coworker and I did.
Wolfe 3 years ago
I feel people should have the right to share their beliefs, in a calm, normal manner. However, when it gets to the point of harassment, that'd when we get a problem. 1 pamphlet would be fine, but repetitive, aggressive behavior would be more likely to drive someone away rather than entice them
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Janet Graham 3 years ago
No clue! Beat them over the head and wonder why they don't understand. Geez!
#6
We interviewed a guy once for an engineering position. We Asked the typical, “ what do you like to do in your free time?” He said he really enjoyed taking his dog with him on a long run to decompress (so far so good)—then he went into excruciating detail of how his dog likes to lick every last drop of sweat off his body as he undresses for the shower. It was cringey!
P. Mozzani 3 years ago
Just thinking of the book, "The Happy Hooker." I'm so creeped out and disgusted by this story that I can't type anything else.
#7
Not during an interview, but in checking up on references. Called this girl's previous employer. This girl had called out 3 times over a 6 month period to attend her grandmother's funeral. She had called out to 3 different managers with the same excuse, and aparantly didn't think the managers communicated with each other. The fourth time her grandmother died, she was let go.
Bryanne Mayhew 3 years ago
As someone who had four grandmothers, this is entirely possible. Timeline is def suspect, but still possible. Surely there was a chance for her to set the record straight before being fired?
Lexsi Nevermind 3 years ago
Probably were lies...but I had 4 grandmothers and 4 grandfathers because my parents divorced and remarried when I was young. Lists of reasons this could be true
Marcus Lynch 3 years ago
Worked with a guy who would funeral crash and say they were his friends. Would get 4 hours off paid for berievement. Must have done it a dozen times over 10 years.
Kitten Kat 3 years ago
I believe it's not really lawful for former employers to share that kind of info with potential employers who call for a reference. I thought the only thing that can really be said is the position they held and the dates of their employment, possibly if they are re hirable. Beyond that,there could be a lawsuit.
#8
The interviewee that found my private personal social media accounts and initiated contact to thank me for the interview, even though they had my professional contact information. This was a young, inexperienced mistake not malicious or a power move. They had been told by their guidance counsellor that it was important to follow up after the interview. I know this because I actually had them come in for a second interview just so could explain why this was unprofessional. Gave them some other tips on how to interview properly, but didn't hire them. Did send them to a place I knew was hiring and a better fit.
Paul 3 years ago
They're not the only one who needs to learn what's professional, considering how unprofessional it is to schedule a second interview under false pretenses and with no intention to hire. They could have handled all that with a phone call but instead needed to do their own power play.
Mora Chilis 3 years ago
I was turned down for a position because I "didn't have a searchable social media presence". My social media life is boring.
James G. Currie 3 years ago
Well, guess I'd never be hired by that company... I have NO Social Media...unless you count Yahoo! Answers (R.I.P.) and Bored Panda...
Load More Replies... P. Mozzani 3 years ago
Many times, young people have no boundaries regarding privacy or respect. Glad that the person was not hired.
Susan Bosse 3 years ago
This seems fake as who would go to these extremes? This is more cringey than the kid messaging a personal account to send a "thank you," as we've all been advised to do.
#9
Two people get up and leave upon the mention of a [toxicology] test, which we specifically stated did not include [weed].
Carol Emory 3 years ago
We all had to take urine tests at a job for Whirlpool. After a couple of hours, the recruiter comes in and points to three separate guys and calls them out to the hallway to tell them they failed the drug test and would not be hired...our of a room of 10 people.
James G. Currie 3 years ago
Hope it wasn't for opiates, since poppy seeds are detectable in the bloodstream for up to a week...proven fact.
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Jes.the.Mess 3 years ago
Victims of the opiate epidemic, or those who took Breaking Bad as career advice
Niall Mac Iomera 3 years ago
So you don't hire people who take certain drugs, and upon hearing this, they left? What's the problem here exactly?
#10
Well believe it or not I set up an interview with a mid to late twenties chemist with a masters degree from a good school. She ticked all the right boxes, interviewed well by phone. When she showed up for her on-site interview, she brought her mother. Yes, you read that correctly. When I learned of this, I told my boss that I was no longer interested in interviewing her and that I was no longer considering her for the position. My boss ended up conducting the interview and then they went on a facility tour with mommy in tow. She didn't get the job. Guys, don't bring one of your parents to your job interview. This isn't high school and it's not a parent-teacher conference.
YourSecretSanta 3 years ago (edited)
I've noticed that in these situations, the mother is at fault. Feel sorry for the kid. Additional note: Some people in my comments never had overbearing, manipulative mothers and it shows
Nimues Child 3 years ago (edited)
If that's the case, I kinda wish that could have been communicated to the candidate so she could tell her mom, "See! Seee! I told you it wasn't professional for you to come." Alas, that kind of transparency is not allowed
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Alma Muminovic 3 years ago
Don't bring anyone period. If you have someone who gave you a ride let them wait in the car.
Vash Uchiha 3 years ago
I had this happen when recruiting for arby's. Seemed like a good kid, but had to ask him for a second interview after informing him that he needed to represent himself without his mother guiding him... she got offended and never came back.
Stéphane Lussier Johnson 3 years ago
Being myself the son of overpresent parents who did everything they could to wedge themselves into every aspects of my life (and making me lose jobs, appartments, social life and girlfriends in the process), I can tell you it's probably not their fault. I was finally able to start my normal adult life when I stopped talking to them, blocked them on social medias, and moved to a new city.
Tina Zimmer 3 years ago
I feel pretty sad for that girl, her mother was probably one of those overbearing type of people.
DC 3 years ago
The german language is pre-prepared to adapt to necessities, if this makes it big time - "Die? Ach, das ist bloß meine Schwiegersekretärin...". But, yeah ... grow up. Your Ma and Pa aren't of any interest ... how can people even think this won't backfire on their ambitions? Or even think it would help them any?
#11
My boss was interviewing a lady who asked what the dress code was. My boss told her business causal. The lady then puts her feet up on my boss’s desk and says “good because these are the only pair of shoes I am ever going to own”
Weim Central 3 years ago
Totally true - won't get many jobs and will have to use those shoes forever.
James G. Currie 3 years ago
Don't know about you, but my work shoes only last 2-3 years before they *have* to be replaced. (Sometimes sooner it I'm unlucky - shortest turnaround was about 8 months.) If you're looking at Safety footwear, it needs to be replaced almost literally annually.
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Ivy la Sangrienta 3 years ago
Off topic, but I'm so glad we don't have a dress code in my office. Wore a tank top and denim shorts today. It was boiling hot, 30 Celsius at least!
Stolas 3 years ago
ehabdnsksjsm she might not want to be "lady like", gender stereotypes are total BS
Load More Replies... #12
This one kid was very proud of the fact that he got so mad one time, he punched a couple windows on a bus and broke them. Somehow he thought this was a good story to tell us in the interview.
Alex Taylor 3 years ago
Absolutely. The company could have saved a fortune in tools!
Load More Replies... #13
A mom called asking why I hadn’t called back their 18 year old son, then mocked me for sounding young and asked how old I was while still trying to get them an interview.
Random Anon 3 years ago
I demand you make my 18 year-old numbskull wanker son CEO right now if you know what's good for you little missy!
Weim Central 3 years ago
Thank you for the chuckle. I just don't see the term "numbskull wanker" enough.
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TheEndIsNigh 3 years ago
Uuuuuuuugh! Hated parents who would call or come into the vet clinic asking why I didn't hire thier kid even though they've brought their pets here for blah blah blah years🙄 ummm ...because your kid's a dingus who shouldn't be allowed out of the house, much less be responsible for a living thing, Karen. But we appreciate your business mmmmkay bye!
Janet Graham 3 years ago
Not a good move Mom! Stay out of your kid's work life unless asked. And maybe not then.
Gautam Balachandran 3 years ago
Should have asked them mom, "Wait, who the f**k gave you a job?"
#14
Guy came in reeking of booze. Decided this would be a quick interview and then move him out. After coup,e questions he said let’s forget about my questions as he’s got questions for me, then proceeded to hit on me hard and heavy. Luckily I’d learned the trick to a,ways sit them towards back of the room and me close to the door so I made my excuses and left the room. Got security. Confiscated his keys as he’d driven and got him a cab home. Receptionist warned me the next day when he was in picking his keys up so I wouldn’t bump into him by accident.
Nimues Child 3 years ago
Let's see: Show up drunk, check. Creepily hit on interviewer, check. So bad that she calls security, check. And has to be warned of your appearance next day like you are her stalker, check. Gosh, Spanky, why ever did you not get the job?
RafCo (he/him) 3 years ago (edited)
I had somebody threaten me during an interview. Dude got mad at the first question, started ranting that the question was stupid, and he didn't drive thirty minutes to answer dumb questions. Then said i was stupid and should be shot. I asked him to leave, and he did. I told security to never let him back in the building. I was friendly with one of the security guys. He told me the guy came back a few hours later, looking really pissed off. They wouldn't let him in the building, so he said he was coming back with a gun. Security ended up calling the cops. Oh this was an interview for a paid internship (a co-op actually). We went with a different candidate.
Niall Mac Iomera 3 years ago
While he was very unprofessional, is it right to call security on him because he hit on you? Maybe we're missing a lot of details, but it seems just saying no and cancelling the interview is enough. And then you stole his keys? Seems illegal.
#15
During the oral interview with a hiring panel, he had long, drawn out pauses between the question being asked and him answering. The answers themselves were often not related to the question asked or he would go off on tangents.
As one of the panel members said once he left "Guess he shouldn't have smoked that second joint in the parking lot ".
Vain Black 3 years ago
There's a distinction in this scenario? If it impacts your ability to get a job that's a disease, not a fun way to relax or unwind.
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Julianne Hannes 3 years ago
It's called Autism Spectrum Disorder, Charles. Treatment for nuerological disorder is a luxury not afforded to all.
Stolas 3 years ago
eh i have asd/"i'm on the spectrum" and i can answer questions fairly relevantly, although no two people are the same i don't think we can just assume it's ASD based on the information presented here
Load More Replies... #16
I worked in an organization focused on social justice and in the interview we asked the candidate their experience working in a diverse environment and he said “well, I won’t get you sued if that’s what you are asking, I already learned that lesson the hard way.”
Xasp 3 years ago
From the getgo if you are straight white guy you failed miserably the interview
Load More Replies... Niall Mac Iomera 3 years ago
So they learned from their mistakes and changed their ways... And that's... Bad?
#17
I asked a man, recent PhD grad, to give an example of a time when he had a conflict or different opinion from a coworker (standard question). He said "oh I've never had a conflict with anyone, I'm super chill." When I asked for him to elaborate he basically said he would pretend to agree with whatever his PI or supervisor said and then as soon as that person wasn't around he would just continue on doing whatever he wanted. So basically, 30 year old man had never learned dialogue and discussion and openly admitted to deception to get what he wants. Obviously, we did not hire him.
Sapphire Dragon 3 years ago
Just hiding some stupid political post. Keep scrolling, and have a nice day.
Stolas 3 years ago
a genuine thank you. this site does not have to be divided the way we are here in America, all it causes is conflict and misery, and I am grateful others see that.
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Janet Graham 3 years ago
I just have to be truthful with this question as I had a boss for a couple of years that wanted me to lie on government reports. I wouldn't and he bad-mouthed me all over the industry. But you can't blurt that out in an interview! I just told them that he wanted something done one way, I felt it to be best to do it another way so I did it both ways. All true without getting into weeds.
Hutt'nKloas 3 years ago
How strange it may sound, this can be an important learning curve for many phD's. In the end you're supposed to be the expert upon your research topic. By just doing what your PI tells you, you may not learn that extra step. That step involves: Do what is suggested by your PI But also follow your own path of progress. This matches up perfectly by agreeing with the PI & also doing your own thing. Follow both paths at the same time and success is nigh [blood, sweat & tears though 🤓]
#18
I was interviewing a candidate for a technical position ( electronic design )
I handed them a dry erase marker and asked them to draw ( this particular easy circuit) on the white board and explain how it works.
The candidate stood in front of the white board looking uncomfortable and I heard them say under their breath "I hate the truth"
Craig Becker 3 years ago (edited)
Interviewing interns for a Fortune 500. Software development. We had resumes, set up initial phone calls - this one person had, in addition to regular schoolwork, taken a [company] class and was a “certified [language] developer”, had links to GitHub showing their completed assignments. It was very impressive. The ‘talky’ part of the interview went well, then we asked a very simple tech question: “using any language you want, write code to output the integers from 1 to 10”. They couldn’t do it. We gave some hints: “try a FOR loop.” Still no joy. The call ended shortly after this, my co-workers and I are going “What the fork was *that*?!” We still don’t know. Maybe this person paid someone to take all of their classes for them?
KamCy Ahaka 3 years ago
Can I be that guy who shoots his shot at a tech job here? I can solve the problem if that counts
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Paul Davis 3 years ago
There's such a thing as "fake it till you make it" but there's definitely a limit...when you're trying to get a job that would require SEVERAL YEARS for you to catch up to it
#19
Was hiring an assistant for my business that required someone who worked well with people.
The only experience she had working with people was applying cosmetics to corpses for their open coffin funeral.
I asked about other jobs and her experiences with coworkers. She told me her favorite job was analyzing slides under a microscope- because she didn’t have to deal with people!
#20
A dude told me one time he stole from his last job because “they deserved that s**t” I really appreciated the honesty but, had to pass on that guy.
Bart 3 years ago
I 'had' to steal from a job once. I moved out of the country after my contract (summer position in a South European country) and boss decided not to pay me the last 2 months as I wouldn't likely go to a local court over it. Found out via coworkers he pulled this quite often and got the equivalent of my pay in goods. Never heard a word again...
#21
Refusing to take out an air pod during interview. I guess they took out one, that should be good enough right?
River Webb 3 years ago (edited)
they're getting to the good bit in the song theyre listenig too
Stephanie A Mutti 3 years ago
I fail to understand the number of people who are walking around with permanent air buds in like they are so amazingly important they can't wait to take that call. It's today's version of 'importance signaling' that the pager was in 1992.
Kelli 3 years ago
As I tend to be sadly disappointed in most humans, I more than understand. I sometimes put my in just to discourage ppl trying to engage me in conversation.
Load More Replies... Robert Beveridge 3 years ago
It doesn't matter WHAT'S happening, you ALWAYS finish listening to the In-a-Gadda-da-Vida drum solo
Paul Jordan 3 years ago
Side note: the original lyrics were “in the garden of Eden”, but the lead singer of Iron Butterfly was so intoxicated in the studio, it came out slurred. They kept it that way
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Stolas 3 years ago
To be fair!!!! I have CRIPPLING anxiety, and a whole list of neurodivergencies (I'm planning to write a post on each one eventually); listening to music in cases like this helps a lot. I feel a lot calmer and safer in an unfamiliar and potentially life changing environment. They should have asked if it was okay or explained the situation before getting into anything, sure, but there can always be a reason that's deeper than you first think.
RafCo (he/him) 3 years ago
Could be a sensory issue. My daughter needs noise cancelling headphones at school in case it gets too loud. She listens to white noise to calm down.
#22
My boss had a zoom interview with a dude who didn't bother to put on a shirt. He didn't get the job...
Edit: It was for a job as a baker in Ontario. Apparently he looked like he just rolled out of bed. No shirt. My boss barely remembered his interview answers because she spent the whole time thinking "why isn't he wearing a shirt? is it a flesh coloured tshirt. Nope...."
Edit 2: He also wasn't jacked. At all.
October 3 years ago
My friend once googled a promising candidate and found lots of pictures of him and his sex doll just chilling
Sue User 3 years ago
On the fence here. One side says what they get up to in private is their businees. Ither side says if they share this, what other information sharing do they think is okay.
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Id row 3 years ago
I just got a retro-visual of the naked dude's reflection in the kettle he was selling, lol. ebay-kettl...c6ad04.jpg 
Shull GaRett 3 years ago
Bakers having interviews online?! Where is this world going? Also maybe he was unaware of the video feed?
Mika N 3 years ago
Lol I guess they just added that as a joke. Like if he was jacked it might've at least explained his mentality behind forgoing a shirt for an interview, to show off.
Load More Replies... #23
Also, not the hiring manager but in the tech sector.. All questions I asked were directed to my male colleague. Our lead architect happened to be female so that wasn't going to fly very well..
Truthfully, there were enough problems with some of the international teams that we didn't need this behavior on the local team as well.
YourSecretSanta 3 years ago
OP is a female that interviewed a male candidate. Candidate directed all his answers to OPs male co-worker who also attended the interview. Candidate was not going to take female authority seriously because he has a tiny manhood
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Marco Conti 3 years ago
I was the guy in a situation like that. The woman was my wife. I told the guy that she was the boss and his job depended on my wife's decision. Of course, he didn't get it.
Random Anon 3 years ago (edited)
I don't get the mindset of these people. I've met quite a few of these hiring someone to assist a staff of mine. Since the new hire will shadow her, she will be asking the questions she need to gauge their competence, compatibility etc. These guys just straight up ignored her and answered her questions facing my male colleague or me. Look Chad, if she ain't happy with you, you ain't getting hired.
RafCo (he/him) 3 years ago
This is a big big problem in tech. I've had to be very careful for the younger women on teams. They'd constantly get the grunt work, or writing all the tests. I had a brilliant developer, who was getting pushed around by her team. She never said anything about it, so i pulled her into a meeting to ask her straight up. Is this the work you WANT to do (maybe it was, who am I to say). She said no, so i started going to all their stand-ups, and assigning tasks personally. She was the best dev on the team. Worked with another young gay Indian woman, but she was having none of it. Somebody ignored her, and she just got louder. She is one of my favorite people on the planet. Point is tech industry does not treat women well. There are a lot of cultural hurdles for them. As a leader, it's our job to remove those hurdles, for the interest of all. No sense putting brains to pasture because they aren't connected to the right organs.
Alma Muminovic 3 years ago
How? The interviewer was female, was asking all the questions, the person being asked was answering the questions to her male coworker who was silently sitting on the side during the interview not asking any questions instead of answering the questions directly to the female hiring manager that was actually asking.
Load More Replies... Janet Graham 3 years ago
Oh, yeah. One of the first things I learned was to include all of the table in the conversation.
Mika N 3 years ago
I think it should have said "His answers to all questions I asked were directed to my male colleague."
Load More Replies... #24
Software dev manager here. Asked a potential Sr. Developer candidate how he felt about mentoring staff. His response was “well I don’t mind answering a question here and there, but I’m certainly not going to train my competition.” I did not hire this person.
Reyn-Guo 3 years ago
Honestly? Teams are mostly unnecessary and just a way for slackers to get others to cover for them. So many companies ask for "team players" but don't actually have teams in place. That's just a red flag for "do everyone else's job when they can't or won't. No thanks. Mentoring? NOPE! Hire me as a trainer if that's what you want.
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Janet Graham 3 years ago
Not a team player? This is the kind of co-worker who would set you up to fail.
#25
Had a guy come in wearing his HS wrestling medals... idr exactly how old he was but minimum age for the job was 21 so he was at least that
#26
Resumes: All capitals - don’t shout at me man I’m just trying to hire someone. Jumping around jobs - staying somewhere for a couple of weeks/months over and over. When you have to put in the effort training someone it feels like a waste of time. Focusing on high school achievements when you’re over 30. (Straight out of school, this is fine) Interviews: showing up late and demanding to be seen. Not dressing appropriately. Stinking of weed (it’s not legal here). Talking to the male in the room and ignoring me (I was the boss) he’s here to take notes. Making inappropriate jokes. Showing up unclean (don’t be stinky it’s gross).
Big Chungus 3 years ago
When my mom worked as a director, she would usually overlook resumes that had job jumpers for the same exact reason
RafCo (he/him) 3 years ago
Job jumpers could be consultants or contractors. I had 15 clients in 4 years. I wasn't jumping jobs, the project was completed
Load More Replies... Seedy Vine 3 years ago (edited)
If a person is a contractor, though, then their jobs last only a few weeks or months.
Amanda Leigh 3 years ago (edited)
Very true - maybe this was not a contractor-type job? They mentioned having to spend time or effort providing training, so that could be frustrating if it is someone who would be leaving soon. Again, would they be able to see this from those short-term jobs in their history? Be able to determine from their resume if those job jumps were consultancy or something they just left after a short time...
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Nunya Bidnits 3 years ago
Gotcha beat on the resumé; kid pulls one out if her pocket, folded and wrinkled. No problem. Doesn't unfold it, hands it to me, red flag. Yep, you guessed it - poorly hand written. In pencil. Looked like her elementary school sibling had written it out.
#27
They asked to take a cigarette break in the middle of the interview.
Mora Chilis 3 years ago
This depends. How long was the person in the building. How long did this person wait. How many interview rounds? I would have said, I need some fresh air if it was a long process.
#28
Canned answers, like ones you'd learn off the internet. When I sense that the candidate is just reciting that b******t, I throw in some wierd question. Such as, "If you could play only one sport for the rest of your life, what would it be?" It's not the answer, it's how they answer it.
Almarako94 3 years ago
For me it would be riding bicycle, it has a low impact on your joints, it's both cardio and muscle build up if done right and since i use it to get from a to b it's my only option.
Michael Deyette 3 years ago
Eh, they can only recite pointless canned answers if you ask pointless canned questions.
Dave Hinckley 3 years ago
I interviewed for a server suppirt position. Manager was a technical guy. Asked a few of the usual 20 questions, then asked, "Which would win in a fight, honey badger or baboon?" I went with baboon because of the opposable thumb. Also said that primates had to stick together. I got an offer, but I didn't want to go to Budapest every quarter for conferences.
Midoribird Aoi 3 years ago
I am not really interested in sports, unless I am playing it. Otherwise, I enjoy long walks.
Susan Reid Smith 3 years ago
You are active and out and about. That works.
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Happy Blue Panda 3 years ago
I always ask if you could meet anyone dead or alive who would it be and why...gives me a good view into their thinking process.
Nunya Bidnits 3 years ago
You'd have to better define 'sport'. Golf? Bowling? Mountain climbing? Skateboarding?
#29
Not me, but my dad works in the oil and gas industry and the first thing his interviewee said was "I don't really wanna work in oil and gas"
YourSecretSanta 3 years ago
If this was in the US, my understanding is that some people on unemployment benefits like to keep it that way but to qualify for the benefits they have to be actively job hunting, so they purposefully ruin their interviews.
TeenieMeanie 3 years ago
Sometimes yes, but that unemployment does run out.
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rodger coghlan 3 years ago
I was the bad interviewee when I mentioned that I do not do COBOL while interviewing for a business computer job
Nunya Bidnits 3 years ago
I've done a similar thing, but in my case it was a mistake; they'd advertised the wrong position. The look in my face must have been precious as they started off "I've glanced over your resumé briefly, why do you think you'd be a good fit as housekeeping manager?" Me: "I have no desire to be in housekeeping at all." It was a hotel and I was responding to an ad posted for a banquet chef!
#30
I interviewed someone who claimed to speak a foreign language that we'd been clear wasn't essential but would have been a bonus. A guy claimed to speak, read and write fluently so I gave him a pre prepared paragraph to translate. He asked me if we had the translation as well and when I said that I did, he stood up and said "well was worth a try, I don't really" and walked out.
RafCo (he/him) 3 years ago
Why lie? I never understood this. Isn't it better to just find a job you're qualified for? Wouldn't the stress of being found out once you're relying on the paycheck just be overwhelming?
#31
Interviewed someone while his mom was with him and answering most of the questions on his behalf.
Nikki Sevven 3 years ago
Simple. Ask mom if she's applying for the job. When she says "no," reply, "then I'm not interested in interviewing you. Please remain in the waiting room."
James G. Currie 3 years ago
If the candidate is mute, or Deaf, or can not (yet) speak the language... I can see something like this. If none of these are the issue...as an Interviewer, my first act would be to ask the parent to step outside so we can begin the interview. If (s)he refused, shake the candidate's hand and apologise, saying they were not being considered...while looking directly at the parent. (If they can't stand on their own during an interview, they won't be able to do the job.)
#32
A guy stood over me and threatened to beat the s**t out of me. I am a female 5 foot 6 and he was at least 6 foot 6. Obviously on drugs. It’s scared the heck out of me. It came out of nowhere.
#33
Brought in her toddler with her.
Wore sweat pants, slippers, and shower cap.
Smelled strongly of cats.
Didn't know how many quarters were in a dollar.
Hand written resume.
Mora Chilis 3 years ago
This makes me sad as well. She needed some coaching, at least she tried. As for the handwritten resume, depends on how long ago. Accessing a computer and printer might be cost-prohibitive. At least she tried. This is more making fun of poverty and circumstance.
Load More Replies... Cecilia Herrera 3 years ago
Don't keep us in suspense. Did she get the job? /s (sarcasm in use)
Robert T 3 years ago
In civilized countries, we'd think this strange, but this is clearly America, and I can quite easily believe that she just didn't have the money to pay for childcare; buy clothes for a interview; have access to a computer to type out here resume. In fact the first two would require getting the job in the first place.
Sarah K 3 years ago
Not knowing how many quarters in a dollar though.....??? That's a rough one.
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James G. Currie 3 years ago
If neatly done, I could forgive the fact that the resume was hand written. The fact she brought her child with her, I can forgive. The rest... No. (For the quarters one - if she was handling cash, that alone would have seen her asked to leave...basic math is mandatory there!)
Deborah Barron Brown 3 years ago
The shower cap and not knowing how many quarters in a dollar is the problem. There could be lots of reasons for other stuff.
Glitterati 3 years ago
Shower cap? Could’ve taken that bad boy off. Can understand the other things but the interview wasn’t in the bath.
Shull GaRett 3 years ago
Im guessing the "hand written resume" was the best thing this candidate had to offer?
#34
Used to manage a busy successful restaurant, during an interview applicant told me that he didn't really need to work for money but that he was hoping to land a job because he wanted to nail some of the waitresses.
#35
Girl showed up to an interview in fuzzy slippers and flannel pajama bottoms. She then proceeded to talk c**p about her current employer in at least 3 of the interview questions.
Monday 3 years ago
Some of these just sound like the interviewee lost a bet or was doing a dare.
Alma Muminovic 3 years ago
I dunno. My friend is a manager at H & M and she said she had some guy roll in late in sweat pants with a bunch of holes in them.
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#36
I had a resume submitted for a line cook job with "microwave experience" listed as a skill.
Sue User 3 years ago
I had to eat at a mid chain recently ( family get together ). My dinner tasted just like a Lean Cuisine.
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#37
Mental health field
A guy went on a tirade about how most people don't like him because he speaks the truth, hinting he was some political sage. The job was outreach/marketing.
#38
I work in a bar as a manager and I've seen some doozys: - I can't even count the number people who approach me while hammered off their asses drinking in the bar who want me to hire them. Many of them brag how they just got out of jail and could kick all the bouncers asses or even mine. One guy that stands out told me how he went to jail for armed robbery and aggravated assault ,was recently released, and "needed a job where he could be allowed to drink and fight whomever he wanted". I declined to hire him to which he said was my loss. Later that night he got arrested for something outside the fast food restaurant next door. - some lady came in and applied for her son. She had a resume for him and even filled out an application and requested an interview. I asked why he didn't come in himself and she flat out said he had no drive to work and had to have everything done for him. I thanked her for her time, wished her well and promptly 110'd that resume. Yikes.
- had a person that was barred for life for being a huge piece of s**t and a thief come in looking for a job. The only reason he wasn't in jail or dead was that we didn't have a lot of info on him. He filled out an application in full. We immediately forwarded the info to police. I've only seen him walkby once since, but never come in.
John Lun 3 years ago
It's code on resumes. It mean NO. 1\1 0 the diagonal line is missing that makes the 11 into an N. Hopefully explained it properly.
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Jayne Kyra 3 years ago
From Reddit for the 110 thing: 110 is an old manager "code". You write a 110 on the resume for "no". You just draw a slash between the one to make it "no" 110=1\10 Alternatively, 135 is "yes" if you draw a slash on the one it looks like yes.
#39
I’m not a hiring manager but I helped interview applicants to residency when I was in training. I mainly asked questions applicable to residency but I always threw in one slightly off the wall question to see how they would handle it. My go to’s were “high heels or flats and why?” or “debate the pros and cons of bow ties vs neck ties.” It didn’t matter what they said, but rather how they responded. If they laughed and then answered or even just thought for a minute before a response, it was fine. But sometimes they’d get flustered, angry, or start sweating because they weren’t sure how to answer or what I was looking for. Those were the red flags. Gotta be able to roll with the punches. If you’re getting stressed out about a question on shoes or ties, I don’t want to know how you’re gonna react when a patient starts hemorrhaging.
Amy Johnson 3 years ago
There's research showing these silly questions produce unreliable data. On top of that they're unprofessional. Interview me about my skills or GTFO.
James G. Currie 3 years ago
Depending on the industry, I might agree. Some industries require you to see the zebra in the room is actually not a horse. Becoming flustered or stressed over something unexpected like this can kill.
Load More Replies... L Mullen 3 years ago
Flats or low heels for everyday office use due to comfort and maybe high heels for important meetings.
Carol Emory 3 years ago
Low heel or no heel always for me. My ankles and toes just can't take high heels anymore.
Load More Replies... Mora Chilis 3 years ago
Kind of calling BS on this one. If so, this person needs some serious retraining from HR. A lot of people do not interview well, but are amazing employees. You want to hire good employees, not people who are good at interviewing. Lost a lot of talent with this question. Health care professional of 27 years here...I do not interview well, but I can lead a team of students and residents through a code/crisis/manage a whole building.
#40
Someone came in for an interview wearing cartoon character slippers. Email addresses on resumes that are not suitable for work. Reference to drug use and sex are not suitable for job searching - especially for a corporate office. Someone came in wearing jeans for an interview. The position was 100% suit and tie. When I scheduled interviews I always mentioned business professional attire.
#41
Had an applicant in for an interview for a pretty specialized role which requires a specific uni major. She was a foreign student getting her master in it in my country, with a bachelor in something else where she came from. On being asked what made her choose said major, she said something along the lines of "it sucked the least", meaning "it sucked the least for getting a visa". So far the interview has been so-so, but good enough to warrant a trial day. After that, it was over, though.
#42
Interviewer: "And what do you think the greatest asset you could bring to the company would be if we hired you?" Interviewee: "Hire me and find out." He was drastically under qualified for an entry position and only being interviewed as a favor to a higher up. When the interviewer ended the interview there and informed him we wouldn't be taking it further as he wasn't a good fit, he lodged three formal complaints he'd been discriminated against.
YourSecretSanta 3 years ago
That higher up probably guaranteed him the job so he didn't bother taking the interview seriously. He probably thought he could get the interviewer fired because of his connections
#43
Mental health field A woman shared a story where she described her utter disgust at having to stop to let a transgender kid use a bathroom, misgendering the kid the whole time. When asked if she felt comfortable using the person's preferred pronouns, she said derisively, "You have to now!" This was the story she chose to the question of how she works with diverse populations.
#44
When they can't answer basic questions on subjects they say they're experts in.
Mora Chilis 3 years ago
Depends on how you phrase the questions/use certain company specific terminology and how well someone interviews.
#45
Corporate job.
Candidate admitted to making up data.
#46
Had someone come in late for the interview. One of the questions was why they left their last job. Answer was ran over my supervisor in the parking lot. It was and accident. Honest. Job was to drive the company truck.
#47
Not the hiring manager but was one of the input on a hiring decision. Context for those of you who don't know, for software engineer, part of the interview is to give you a coding challenge to solve. We gave one that we didn't necessarily expect you to solve in the allotted time but rather we were interested in seeing how you approach difficult problems and what concepts from computer science you would draw from. This one person we had really high hopes for straight up cheated on it and made it super obvious she did. She just typed the code as if she was reading it off of another screen. The code just happens to compile and be 100 percent correct on the first try(we didn't have a compiler and we weren't gonna hold it against you if you gave us syntax errors). And when we asked her to explain it, she obviously didn't know how it worked. She would fake numbers and fake the results of each step and didn't understand the fundamental reason why the code solution she ripped off of leetcode worked. Couldn't describe the run time and space time properly. And funny enough after the interview, we ran it to a compiler and it did work as previously stated. We then googled the leet code solution and found it was the exact same minus a handful of variable name changes.
Craig Becker 3 years ago
It’s not necessarily bad that she searched the web for a solution (unless you explicitly started out saying “no searching”). But she could have been honest, said “I found what might be a partial solution” and then analyzed the code and learned how it worked. The interviewer could have countered with “okay, but we need a change …” and seen how she handled it. Honestly, the interviewer should have searched for solutions before the interview.
#48
Applicant was a senior in college. Front and center on his resume was his major, expected graduation date, and the line "GPA: 2.0."
I get that grades aren't everything, but if you're getting C's, at least have the common sense to not advertise it so prominently.
Edit: To clarify, I was not the hiring manager - I was the technical advisor helping to sift resumes and do interviews. We were recruiting at a college campus and doing callbacks for interviews on-site.
Your GPA (and frankly, your college degree) are only one point of reference to use when measuring competency. I have worked with skilled people who were self-taught, and I have worked with master's graduates that couldn't
Elwood Schwartz (it/that) 3 years ago
There is an old joke. What do you call a person that got all C's in medical school? Doctor.
#49
They bring someone with them to the interview. They won't take the job unless you hire their friend too.
#50
I once had a guy bring along his wife. I thought she was just going to wait on him until the interview was over, but no she wanted to be apart of the interview just as much as he was.
#51
I had a girl misspell her own name (spelled two different ways on same resume) She also clearly used a free resume builder and then copied and pasted into notepad. There were a ton of other problems. I tried to convince my coworkers to bring her in and we would fix her a resume. They said it would be too embarrassing and mean. I just wanted to help someone get a job.
Mora Chilis 3 years ago
Some people don't have access to home computers or even word documents. They do their best with basic programs. :-(
#52
I've had to hire two positions in my department (IT in a hospital system) in the past several months. Some highlights: - Guy couldn't get WebEx to work on his end. Not a good look for a systems analyst position. - Woman lived over an hour away for a PC tech position that would require on-call duties. When I asked how they would deal with after-hours calls living so far away (often require physically coming back in), she said she had family she could stay with that were still 30+ miles away. - Guy gets on WebEx for a virtual interview. His camera is on, but all I see is an orange square. The voice on the other end sounds like a woman. Afterward, he emailed me every two days asking for an update about the position. I ended up finding him on social media. He was a furry that did not have a single picture of his human face posted anywhere.
Alma Muminovic 3 years ago
Weird. I wonder if he was in his furry outfit during the interview and if the orange square was a close up of his costume?
#53
Was interviewing for a web developer job and the told me he'd hacked the local community College site while he was there. He wasn't hired.
#54
I always like to ask about strengths & weaknesses, but I frame it as “What’s one area you feel like you could improve at?” Had a guy think for a few minutes before telling me “none” Ok Superman
#55
Smell. Bad body odor and Tequila are the only two I can think of right now that I experienced.
#57
Had a guy come in that I swore I had met before but I just couldnt put my finger on how. He began to brag about suing a former employer. All of a sudden I remembered who he was: dude was a customer of the business who sued one of my co-workers over some custom requested work. I ended the interview and tossed his resume in the trash.
#58
They are more concerned about the harassment policies than the actual job
James G. Currie 3 years ago
50/50... As in what can they do and not be burned? Or, what is the probability of the Company protecting them in an Harassment situation? For the first, definite red flag. For the latter, I can see why a previous victim might want to know.
#59
I’ve interviewed / worked with multiple people who asked in their interview “what’s the fastest anyone has been promoted here? I want to break that record”. I’m not the ultimate decision maker on these things but all those people turned out to be complete duds so that’s now a kiss of death in any interview I’m a part of.
#60
**Take these seriously, hiring managers do:**
ON A RESUME
•Tons of misspellings and awful grammar. Not just 2 or 3. I'm talking 3rd grade level grammar that basically says "I haven't bothered to pay attention in school for most of my life, but gimme money yo."
•More than 3 jobs in 2 or 3 years. This means one or more of these: you aren't serious about a career or getting your life together; you're impossible to work with and the problems you bring to the table *far* outweigh any positive qualities you might bring to the team; you have a serious issue with authority.
IN AN INTERVIEW
•You don't have reliable transportation. I know this seems trite, but it isn't. You can't work if you won't get your a*s to work.
•You're applying for a position that is so far beyond your qualifications that you literally had no idea it was beyond your qualifications when you applied. You might have high aspirations and that rocks, but many bosses now can't afford to take huge risks on underqualified applicants.
•You're constantly looking around, say UMM a lot, shrug all the time, don't take things seriously. If that's just you, okay. But you might not get hired. Be a more attentive you for ten minutes, chief.
DC 3 years ago
Uh ... some of these sound more like a flaw in hiring than like an actually justified red flag. Many jobs, not so many years? Have you seen the amount of toxic companies, exhausting work culture and generally abusive and exploiting environments? The entire economy is infested with these. Getting to leave said work culture may not always work at the first job swap, but takes more and more effort, and that heavily is made worse by the assumption that many job changes ALWAYS indicate a wrong in the candidate. At least on any level requiring higher education, companies can and should take the time to find out who they're dealing with, instead of jumping to conclusions. After all, you ALWAYS deal with an individual, in any field, in any position, and said individual is not just some stacked up flags of different colours. There's some backstory to leaving or changing a job, and neither the candidate nor the former or current employers are always in the wrong here, but each is sometimes.
Alma Muminovic 3 years ago
I was just gonna mention this. I change jobs after a year or two, mostly because I move, the pay goes down/pay was not what they said, if it’s sooner then a year it’s cause of toxic work culture or the hiring managers lied about details. Holding down a job for 2 yrs means it was not the candidate. You definitely find out in 6 months or less if someone is a fit.
Load More Replies... YourSecretSanta 3 years ago
Agree with some, don't agree with others. First point makes sense. You would need context for the second point, hence references exist. There are a number of reasons that a person could have 3+ jobs in 3 years, and that person should not be automatically disqualified until the reason is determined. Though some recruiters may be lazy to do the work and just focus on the easy resumes. Regarding transportation, you may have and then Murphy's Law hits on the day of your interview, happens to everyone, again should not disqualify you. America hired Trump so that answers point 4. Lastly, many people do not learn proper interview etiquette and have no one to coach them. There may very perfectly qualified candidates that have bad anxiety in those situations. This list seems put together by a lazy recruiter
Huddo's sister 3 years ago
Bit harsh not having transport disqualifies you- there is such a thing as public transport. Saying umm and getting restless is a sign of anxiety- interviews are nerve wracking, you can't necessarily just 'be more attentive'.
Cat-Servant 3 years ago
Asking aboutbtransportation can be considered discrimination against the poor in some areas. That said a huge amount of the US doesn't have much public transportation. Where I live it is available to take the elderly and disabled to medical appointments, shopping and the library and must be scheduled at least a day in advance.
Load More Replies... Almarako94 3 years ago
I went through 5 jobs in 2 years because of the lack of respect (and money) for working harder than the rest.
Patrick McKemie 3 years ago
I once had three job in three years because I was doing well and getting promoted.
Aileen Grist 3 years ago
When I was looking for work, ifI didn't understand what the job meant I wasn't qualified
SAF saf 3 years ago
This one is just stupid...half these are easily remedied by simply lying on a resume. Which believe it or not most folks do. I've had 3 jobs in 4 years, thanks to the pandemic and hiring managers much like yourself. It's created a generational opportunity for better pay, better treatment and better benefits. Companies, businesses and corporations aren't loyal to you so why should employees be?
Seedy Vine 3 years ago (edited)
The OP sounds like someone who discriminates against disabled people without realizing it.
#61
having a random 1.5 year break of doing nothing and not addressing it. apparently they went to prison for a year and a half and didn't mention it. (we later learned after the backround check)
Deux 3 years ago (edited)
So I'm on an employment break right now because of health issues- any have advice on how much I need to mention when I start attending interviews again?
B.Nelson 3 years ago
"There we're health issues in my family that needed my full attention and made it so I was unable to work. I'm happy that those issues have cleared up and am excited to get back into my chosen field" something like that. Also add something short and vague about what you learned from it like how you used the time to better yourself. I had to explain a long gap in my resume do to a family member have mobility issues.
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Mora Chilis 3 years ago
If asked, I say Family reasons, now resolved. Your health is a protected classification. Once you discuss this, they can factor it in. I have halted many interviews and let the interviewee know they were sharing TMI. Health, kids, pregnancy, etc. I never documented it, let them "start-over". Many were hired. I do know a certain higher up in one of my previous roles would find a way to not hire based on certain info.
#62
Copy and paste resume and cover letters, I don't mind them as they are, it's just most people don't proofread. I would interview someone that makes a resume/cover letter that isn't "right" than someone that uses a obvious copy and paste Another one was a guy I was interviewing looked good on paper but had to be one of the most negative people I've met. Be positive, anyone that has experience knows how much trouble a negative force can destroy in a good work place
#63
A resume with a lot of obvious spelling errors. There's no excused for not running it through grammarly or some other free spellcheck program. A lack of effort put into the resume signals to me the amount of effort likely to be put into the job.
Kristin Ingersoll 3 years ago
RIGHT???? HAHAHAHAHAHAH!!! Oh, the irony!!!
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#64
I had a Zoom interview with a candidate who was rolling cigarettes.
#65
Not me but a friend got threatened during a phone interview and he flagged him, the General Manager stepped in and hired the guy anyway.
#66
This one applicant wrote a 4 page cover letter. Yes, that’s right...4 single spaced pages! He was not hired. Mostly for wasting the hiring committee’s time with that insane letter. Like what are you trying to overcompensate for?
YourSecretSanta 3 years ago
He's never learnt what a cover letter is, and probably wrote out all his qualifications and experience.
Mora Chilis 3 years ago
Exactly. Sometimes when hiring, we take a moment to teach as well. And look at the context, not the package. People are trying, it is not like we get through school knowing these things or have supportive adults around us..
Load More Replies... Alma Muminovic 3 years ago
I hate cover letter’s in general. They are literally the resume written out in story format.
#67
For the question, can we contact your previous manager? A woman wrote in, it’s complicated.
It’s not. The answer is no. But this was definitely a red flag.
Glitterati 3 years ago
What b*llocks. Managers can be awful human beings just like everyone else. Just because someone doesn’t want to use a toxic manager as a referee it doesn’t mean they’re shifty. They might be, but I’m betting the manager is usually the issue and not the candidate.
Sadia Timmermans 3 years ago
Or maybe your current boss doesn't know you are applying for a new job?
Amanda Leigh 3 years ago
Yes - I did this once and didn't want to tell my supervisor, unless I was going to be interviewed for the new job. Nothing really negative about the current job, but we were short staffed and I felt bad about leaving. I just asked that they let me know if contacting my current supervisor so I could tell her myself.
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Happy Traveller 3 years ago
No, it's not a red flag. Do you know the situation? It may very well be possible that she was let go or resigned simply because the boss was an unreasonable jerk and they parted on bad terms through no fault of her own. Hiring managers suck.
Mora Chilis 3 years ago
Or maybe she was still employed? I will say no, not until I have an offer in hand. Once the current employer/manager, especially if they are toxic, knows you are searching, you've had your work life a living hell. Not a red flag at all. saying it is complicated is short hand for what I just described.
#68
I once interviewed a girl for a part time job at a buy/sell/trade videogame store (independent, not Gamestop.) I'm a very laid back manager, I like to make sure people are comfortable. About half way through the interview this girl has a full on meltdown. Sweating, crying, can't string two words together. More than anything I just felt bad for her. She did not end up getting the job.
#69
Bait and switch on the job. It wasn't software development, it was about scanning rejected loans, figuring out why they were spit out, and getting them to work. I was told that employees usually worked 50 hours a week on a salary. Noped out of that one.
#70
I had a guy scheduled for a 5:00pm interview at a retail job. He called and said he was going to be running late because of his other job, understandable. I got a call that he arrived so I went to an area where we have some tables to get started. He wasn’t there. I asked my other employees where he went and they pointed towards the bathroom. Again, understandable. A good 10 minutes to by and he’s not out yet. I asked one of my coworkers to go into the bathroom and see if everything is ok. My coworker and the guy for the interview came walking out and met me at the table. He had about half a dozen pieces of TP on his face. He tried to rush in and shave and cut the hell out of his face.
#71
Not really a red flag but was interviewing a guy and he introduced himself than said before we start that he needed to use the bathroom. Like 25 minutes later comes back in and away we go - dude went for a dump! Epic.
#72
During an interview I said, " why don't you go a head and give me a quick run down of your career." Then the guy says "well don't you have my resume, it's on there." In a rude dismissive voice. I stood up right there and walked out. He was confused and continued to sit in the office I was interviewing him in for another 10 mins before he got the hint and left.
Yaz Cam 3 years ago
What kind of interviewer are you if you can’t communicate that the interview is over?
Weim Central 3 years ago
Yep - clarification was merited for this slow witted individual. Something like "I'm asking you to summarize your experience verbally or this interview is over"
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Nikki Sevven 3 years ago
Honestly, what did you expect? Stupid companies ask for a CV, then make you fill out an application that literally echoes your CV, then asks you verbally for the information on your CV. Get your s**t together. Be familiar with the candidate you're interviewing.
Mora Chilis 3 years ago (edited)
I can't upvote this enough. I also have also said, "have you had a chance to look at my resume? Do you have any specific questions?" Maybe not in a tone that the interviewer "perceived "as rude. Not knowing your candidate, then asking for an overview during an interview is a sign that you don't value job seekers' time or them as a professional. The interviewers defensiveness and lack of professionalism most likely was because he/she was showed up without doing their homework and got called out on it by the candidate. I wouldn't want to work there.
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Al Jameson 3 years ago
That's a horrible interview question. You DID have his resume, and if you weren't already familiar with his work history, that's on you. He shouldn't have been rude, but you were wasting his time.
Happy Traveller 3 years ago
I hate stating the obvious, repeating myself, and answering questions that I've already clearly answered in the resume. If you're asking me the same questions you asked me to answer in my application, the issue is yours. And how dare you leave without telling him the interview is over. Another question I hate answering is "tell me about yourself". About what exactly? My hobbies? My family? My life biography? These are all stupid things hiring managers need to stop asking.
Hutch 3 years ago
A few responses here but having been on both sides of this coin, I can see why he asked. I can't even remember the number of resumes I've seen that were copies of someone else's with the name changed. This question also isn't just a "tell me your work history again?" - it's a chance for the interviewer to go through some of it and ask questions that might not have been covered in just a regurgitation of his history on paper. Second, I would have done the same thing. Telling the guy it's over he can leave just makes him mad at you. Having him stew for a minute and think about what happened gets him to realize what really happened... IMO, of course.
#73
If you have had a bunch of jobs for a couple months at a time, don’t list them. Not going to waste my time training folks to leave when they are trained. Exceptions are internships or seasonal work.
Mora Chilis 3 years ago
Depends on the situation. Is this person working temp/agency jobs while seeking a FT position? Then showing that is important. Geez.
nooneimportant 3 years ago
Managers/HR/etc. like OP are why people feel like there aren't any jobs for them. American Companies don't want employees they want slave labor. Not every job is for every person; why should someone be penalized for trying to find the work that fit them best.
What do you think ?
L Mullen 3 years ago
I was being interviewed for a job in law enforcement. During the panel interview one of the officers asked me a situational question and tried to get me to change my answer. I stuck to my answer and finally yelled "Look!" and at that moment I had four pairs of law enforcement eyes laser locked on me. I explained the reasoning behind my answer and then we continued on with the interview. I went home thinking I failed the interview. Turns out they accepted the reasoning behind the answer and I've been with the department for over 16 years.
Shannon Hawks 3 years ago
i think recruiters got exactly what they deserve. Get your own damn job .
Monique Reed 3 years ago
We didn't hire: --the multiple people who were not eligible to work in the U.S. and couldn't get the proper visa --the multiple people whose resume didn't match the online application they submitted --the people who thought their plumbing or dog grooming experience or their psych degree would help them with job in a technical biochem teaching lab --the fellow who, when asked to describe how he handled a conflict, was very proud of having filled his roommate's bed with dog poop --the fellow who gave us all a "vibe" and whose first result, when Googled, was a story about him being fired as a teacher for a relationship with an underage student. He applied for two different jobs in our program that works with students, some of whom are minors...
Vain Black 3 years ago
No, the one time a lady was doing that she actually told me that straight up.
Load More Replies... L Mullen 3 years ago
I was being interviewed for a job in law enforcement. During the panel interview one of the officers asked me a situational question and tried to get me to change my answer. I stuck to my answer and finally yelled "Look!" and at that moment I had four pairs of law enforcement eyes laser locked on me. I explained the reasoning behind my answer and then we continued on with the interview. I went home thinking I failed the interview. Turns out they accepted the reasoning behind the answer and I've been with the department for over 16 years.
Shannon Hawks 3 years ago
i think recruiters got exactly what they deserve. Get your own damn job .
Monique Reed 3 years ago
We didn't hire: --the multiple people who were not eligible to work in the U.S. and couldn't get the proper visa --the multiple people whose resume didn't match the online application they submitted --the people who thought their plumbing or dog grooming experience or their psych degree would help them with job in a technical biochem teaching lab --the fellow who, when asked to describe how he handled a conflict, was very proud of having filled his roommate's bed with dog poop --the fellow who gave us all a "vibe" and whose first result, when Googled, was a story about him being fired as a teacher for a relationship with an underage student. He applied for two different jobs in our program that works with students, some of whom are minors...
Vain Black 3 years ago
No, the one time a lady was doing that she actually told me that straight up.
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