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I was recently on the panel for a job interview. After a few minutes, it was clear to me that the candidate was not qualified for the role. Rather than beat around the bush, I asked him directly, if offered the role, how confident he was in excelling in it.
He paused. Thought for a while, and then said “7 out of 10.”
I thanked him for his honesty and added that self-awareness of ones abilities is important in the pursuit of career success. This is because it allows one to ask for help when needed. I then explained that we needed someone who can perform all the responsibilities specified in the JD and suggested that he apply again in future once he had the necessary confidence and required experience.
While I applaud his gumption to aim high, he was honestly not respectful of other people’s time. Just like how human resources should not arrange for interviews with candidates whose salary expectations are above the organization’s range, I also believe candidates should only apply for roles they sincerely believe they are qualified to hold. Jobseekers need to understand that taking on a role that is too big for them is not a good move. This is because failure in the role will affect future job prospects.
Actual competencies aside, when someone applies for a role, my expectation is that the person has the confidence and the self-belief that he or she can not only do the job, but excel in it. If the person does not have these as the starting point, then applying for the role is wasteful of each other’s time.
Time is money, and time wasted has an opportunity cost. Let’s be mindful to respect each other’s time.
