Indian founder claims she rejected Gen Z candidate who asked ‘What’s your firm called?’
In a recent interaction, Mahima Jalan, the Dubai-based Indian Founder of Sorted Brand, has revealed a shocking incident that left her “taken aback”. During an interview with a Gen Z candidate, Jalan was asked, “What’s your company called and what do you do?” This question, which may seem harmless to some, raised concerns for Jalan, who expected the candidate to have done their homework before applying for the position.
The incident highlights the importance of research and preparation in the job search process. In today’s digital age, it’s easier than ever to find information about a company, its products, and its mission. A simple Google search can provide a wealth of information about a company, making it inexcusable for a job candidate to not know the basic details about the company they are applying to.
Jalan’s response to the candidate’s question was straightforward: “Not knowing basic details is poor work etiquette. Being young isn’t an excuse.” This statement emphasizes the importance of professionalism and preparation in the workplace. Regardless of age, job candidates are expected to demonstrate a certain level of knowledge and enthusiasm about the company and position they are applying for.
The incident came to light when an X user asked Jalan about her response to the candidate’s question. Jalan replied, “Didn’t hire him.” This response suggests that the candidate’s lack of preparation and knowledge about the company was a major factor in the hiring decision. It’s clear that Jalan values candidates who take the time to research and understand the company’s mission and values.
This incident raises important questions about the role of research and preparation in the job search process. In a competitive job market, it’s more important than ever for candidates to stand out from the crowd. One way to do this is by demonstrating a thorough understanding of the company and position they are applying for. This not only shows enthusiasm and interest but also highlights the candidate’s level of professionalism and work ethic.
Furthermore, the incident highlights the importance of soft skills in the workplace. Soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, are essential for success in any profession. However, they are often overlooked in favor of technical skills and qualifications. Jalan’s experience suggests that soft skills, such as research and preparation, are just as important as technical skills when it comes to making a positive impression in the workplace.
In addition, the incident raises concerns about the level of preparedness among Gen Z candidates. As the newest generation to enter the workforce, Gen Z is known for their tech-savviness and entrepreneurial spirit. However, this incident suggests that some Gen Z candidates may be lacking in basic research and preparation skills. This is a concern for employers, who expect candidates to be prepared and knowledgeable about the company and position they are applying for.
In conclusion, the incident highlights the importance of research and preparation in the job search process. It’s essential for candidates to take the time to learn about the company, its products, and its mission before applying for a position. This not only demonstrates enthusiasm and interest but also highlights the candidate’s level of professionalism and work ethic. As Jalan’s experience shows, a lack of preparation and knowledge about the company can be a major factor in the hiring decision.
It’s also important for employers to recognize the value of soft skills, such as research and preparation, in the workplace. By emphasizing the importance of these skills, employers can help to create a more professional and productive work environment.
Ultimately, the incident serves as a reminder to candidates to always do their homework before applying for a job. With the vast amount of information available online, there’s no excuse for not knowing the basic details about a company. By taking the time to research and prepare, candidates can make a positive impression and increase their chances of success in the job market.
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