Is It Time For A Job Seeker Bill Of Rights?

One of the most challenging parts of job hunting is staying optimistic when dealing with rejection. However, while rejection can definitely hurt, for many job seekers, it’s the lack of communication and sudden changes from employers that are hardest to handle.

Over at Forbes, Lydia O’Connor, a recent college grad, reflects on the trouble she’s been having finding a job and argues that it’s time for a Bill of Rights for job seekers to ensure employers treat candidates better. Here are some of the things she mentioned that we wish would be commonplace throughout the job search.

Be forthright about salary

Job seekers are warned never to ask about salary, or mention their own salary expectations—this would be fine if more employers were open about what the salary is for open roles!

When hiring managers aren't open about their budget for the role, it leads to a confusing experience for everyone. How else are job seekers supposed to know whether a certain position fits their expectations?

Follow up with candidates

 If candidates have taken the time to interview with you, don’t leave them hanging! It would be fantastic if all hiring managers sent an email—or better yet, made a phone call—to let candidates know where they stand in the hiring process. Even though things change, it's better to be overly-communicative than to leave job seekers hanging.

Be empathetic

Rejection can be tough, but all job seekers know it's part of the job search process. What we really want to see from hiring managers is a little empathy when we don't get the job. Whether that's a kind email, phone call, or advice for how to find a future opportunity that matches our skills and experience, a little courtesy goes a long way.

Read the rest of her suggestions for a job seeker Bill of Rights.