Indian founder claims she rejected Gen Z candidate who asked ‘What’s your firm called?’
In a recent interview, Mahima Jalan, the Dubai-based Indian Founder of Sorted Brand, shared a surprising and somewhat concerning experience she had with a Gen Z candidate during a job interview. The candidate, who was presumably young and eager to start their career, asked Jalan a question that left her “taken aback”: “What’s your company called and what do you do?” This seemingly innocent question raised a red flag for Jalan, who emphasized that not knowing basic details about a company is a sign of poor work etiquette.
Jalan’s response to the candidate’s question was firm and straightforward. “Not knowing basic details is poor work etiquette. Being young isn’t an excuse,” she stated. This statement sparked a lot of interest and debate among social media users, with many weighing in on the issue. When an X user asked Jalan about her response, she replied, “Didn’t hire him.” This response was met with a mix of reactions, with some people praising Jalan for her high standards and others criticizing her for being too harsh.
The incident has raised important questions about the expectations and responsibilities of job candidates, particularly those from the Gen Z demographic. As the youngest generation in the workforce, Gen Zers are known for their tech-savviness, creativity, and enthusiasm. However, they are also often criticized for their lack of preparation and research when it comes to job interviews. Jalan’s experience with the candidate who asked about her company’s name and purpose is a prime example of this.
In today’s digital age, it is easier than ever to research a company and learn about its mission, values, and products. With just a few clicks, job candidates can access a wealth of information about a company, including its website, social media profiles, and news articles. Therefore, it is reasonable to expect that candidates will do their due diligence and come prepared to an interview with a basic understanding of the company.
Jalan’s decision not to hire the candidate who asked about her company’s name and purpose is not surprising, given her emphasis on the importance of research and preparation. As a founder and entrepreneur, Jalan understands the value of hard work, dedication, and attention to detail. She expects the same level of commitment and enthusiasm from her employees, and it is clear that she will not settle for anything less.
The incident also highlights the importance of effective communication and etiquette in the workplace. In a professional setting, it is essential to be respectful, courteous, and prepared. This includes doing research on a company, practicing good listening skills, and asking thoughtful and relevant questions. By failing to do so, candidates can create a negative impression and harm their chances of getting hired.
In conclusion, Mahima Jalan’s experience with the Gen Z candidate who asked about her company’s name and purpose serves as a reminder of the importance of research, preparation, and etiquette in the workplace. As the job market continues to evolve and become more competitive, it is crucial for candidates to demonstrate their skills, knowledge, and enthusiasm for a company and its mission. By doing so, they can increase their chances of success and make a positive impression on potential employers.
It is also worth noting that Jalan’s experience is not an isolated incident. Many employers and recruiters have reported similar experiences with Gen Z candidates who lack basic knowledge about a company or its industry. This highlights the need for greater awareness and education about the importance of research and preparation in the job search process.
Ultimately, Jalan’s decision not to hire the candidate who asked about her company’s name and purpose is a reflection of her high standards and expectations for her employees. As a founder and entrepreneur, she understands the value of hard work, dedication, and attention to detail, and she will not settle for anything less. Her experience serves as a reminder to all job candidates, regardless of their age or experience, of the importance of research, preparation, and etiquette in the workplace.
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