Recruiters Anonymous - Silly reasons why applications got rejected

Have you ever wondered if job applications are really assessed in an unbiased way?

Well, we can assure you straight away. For the most part, recruiters and applicant tracking systems do a great job of identifying the best candidates for job openings. Thanks to a wealth of checks and balances, the hiring process really is designed to be as fair and impartial as possible.

However. Sometimes, even if the recruiter knows someone is a great fit, others in the decision-making process (such as the line manager or CEO) may have other ideas.

While rare, there are times when they may reject an application for what seems like a very silly reason.

With nearly two decades in the career coaching and hiring space, we’ve heard a lot of stories over the years, directly from hiring stakeholders and candidates themselves.

In this blog post, we’re going to share some of the more seemingly absurd rejections, as well as tips to avoid these (and, of course, when to turn your back on blazing red flags).

1 The ‘Excessive’ Commute

Our Advice:

If you’re willing to move closer to the job location, or don’t mind a lengthy commute, make this clear in your cover letter. Even better, if you’re used to travelling that far regularly (e.g. because of family or leisure activities), it can help to mention that so it sounds even more like a non-issue for you. Pointing this out early on clears up any confusion about your commitment to the role.

2 Random Rejection Roulette

Our Advice:

While you can’t control the arbitrary (and frankly quite stupid) methods some hiring managers may use, you can ensure that your resume stands out at first glance for all the right reasons. Use a clear, professional format and highlight key achievements and skills that are relevant to the job. Unless it’s common practice in your country, don’t include a photo. Also, try to find and apply to companies known for their fair and thorough hiring practices (check out review sites like Glassdoor or search the company’s name plus ‘review’ or ‘employee reviews’ and see what comes up).

3 The Nose Piercing

Our Advice:

If you’re in an industry or applying to a company known for conservative or traditional values, it might be worth considering the impression your appearance might make. However, it’s also important to find a workplace where you can be yourself. If a company rejects you for superficial reasons, or you’re not willing to compromise, it might not be the right fit for you anyway.

4 Agism and Outdated Email Addresses

Our Advice:

Unfortunately, (un)conscious bias is real. Make sure your resume is modern and doesn’t include outdated details that could reveal your age. Use a contemporary email provider, list only the most recent and relevant job experiences, and tailor your older job titles to match current wording.

5 Too Innovative

Our Advice:

When discussing your achievements and projects, use clear and widely understood terms. If you must use specialized jargon, make sure to explain it thoroughly. It’s also helpful to have a narrative that non-technical stakeholders can understand, showcasing not just what you did, but the impact it had. That said, the only loser in such cases is the company that failed to hire you over their own lack of understanding.

6 Ms ‘Too Casual’

Our Advice:

Always maintain a level of professionalism during interviews, regardless of the company culture. While it’s important to be yourself, it’s equally important to be respectful and courteous. Address interviewers formally unless they explicitly tell you otherwise.

Conclusion

While job rejections can occasionally be for seemingly silly reasons, sometimes there’s a lesson to be learned from the situation.

While you can’t control every aspect of the hiring process, you can take steps to present yourself in the best possible light. Tailor your applications, dress according to the culture, communicate clearly and respectfully, and minimise possibilities for snap judgements about age, character, or expertise.

We’ll end by saying this: Sometimes a rejection might just be a blessing in disguise for you. If you’re rejected over arbitrary or absurd reasons, would you really want to work there, anyway?

By the way, if you’d like to enhance your interviewing or resume writing skills, check out our digital on-demand video courses. Register at www.jobleads.com and begin watching now!

Key takeaways

• Biases from decision-makers can sometimes influence hiring outcomes, so present yourself as positively as possible while understanding some factors are beyond your control.
• Conservative companies may reject candidates based on appearance (e.g. piercings or tattoos). Consider the company’s culture and seek workplaces where you can be yourself.
• Unfortunately, some applicants might be rejected for seeming too ‘old’. To avoid (un)conscious bias, try tricks such as using modern email providers, limiting listed work experience, and ensuring your resume reflects contemporary job titles.
• Using unfamiliar terminology may be interpreted as you not knowing your subject area. Use clear, widely understood terms and explain specialized jargon thoroughly.
• Overly casual language in interviews can result in rejection; maintain professionalism and address interviewers formally and courteously unless advised otherwise (so no “Thanks, girl!”).
• General Advice: Tailor applications, dress according to the culture, and communicate clearly and respectfully to avoid snap judgments about age, character, or expertise.
• Finally, sometimes rejection for arbitrary reasons indicates the company isn’t the right fit for you. Laugh the situation off and view it as a blessing in disguise.

For more insights, tips and strategies related to this topic, be sure to read our other articles: 5 Bad Interviews | Lessons Learned and Tips for Success & What’s an elevator pitch - and how will it land me great jobs? & 13 Powerful Strategies to Fight Age Bias During Job Application

Related questions

Why was my job application rejected without even an interview?

Your job application might have been rejected due to an applicant tracking system (ATS) filtering out resumes that don’t match specific keywords or criteria set by the employer. To improve your chances, ensure your resume is tailored to each job, incorporating relevant keywords from the job description and a clear format that is ATS-friendly.

Can personal social media profiles lead to job application rejection?

Yes, many recruiters check social media profiles to assess a candidate's professionalism and cultural fit. Content that is unprofessional, controversial, or inconsistent with your application can result in rejection. Ensure your social media profiles are either private or reflect the image you wish to project to potential employers.

How can following up on an application impact my chances?

Following up can demonstrate your enthusiasm for the position, but timing and approach are crucial. A polite email a week after the application deadline can remind recruiters of your interest and prompt them to review your application, potentially improving your chances if done correctly.

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