Indian founder claims she rejected Gen Z candidate who asked ‘What’s your firm called?’
In a surprising turn of events, Mahima Jalan, the Dubai-based Indian Founder of Sorted Brand, has claimed that she was left stunned after a Gen Z candidate asked her a rather basic question during an interview. The question that left her “taken aback” was, “What’s your company called and what do you do?” This incident has sparked a debate about the level of preparation and research that candidates, especially from the younger generation, should have before walking into a job interview.
According to Jalan, not knowing basic details about the company is a sign of poor work etiquette, and being young is not an excuse for such lack of preparation. This statement has raised eyebrows, with many people taking to social media to share their thoughts on the matter. After an X user asked about her response to the candidate’s question, Jalan replied, “Didn’t hire him.” This response has been met with a mix of reactions, with some people agreeing with Jalan’s stance and others feeling that she was too harsh.
The incident has highlighted the importance of research and preparation in the job search process. In today’s digital age, it is easier than ever to find information about a company, its products, and its mission. With just a few clicks, candidates can access a wealth of information that can help them prepare for an interview and show their interest in the company. However, it seems that some candidates, including the Gen Z candidate in question, are not taking advantage of this readily available information.
Jalan’s experience is not an isolated incident. Many employers have reported similar experiences, where candidates have shown up to interviews without doing their homework on the company. This lack of preparation can be a major turn-off for employers, who are looking for candidates who are not only qualified but also enthusiastic and interested in the company.
So, what can candidates do to avoid making the same mistake? The answer is simple: do your research. Before an interview, take the time to visit the company’s website, read news articles about the company, and follow the company’s social media accounts. This will give you a good understanding of the company’s products, services, mission, and values. You can also prepare a list of questions to ask the interviewer, which will show that you are interested in the company and willing to learn more.
In addition to researching the company, candidates should also be prepared to talk about themselves and their qualifications. This includes being able to clearly and concisely explain their skills, experience, and achievements. It is also important to be ready to answer common interview questions, such as “Why do you want to work for this company?” or “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”
In conclusion, the incident involving Mahima Jalan and the Gen Z candidate is a reminder of the importance of preparation and research in the job search process. Candidates who take the time to do their homework on a company are more likely to make a positive impression on the interviewer and increase their chances of getting hired. As Jalan said, being young is not an excuse for lack of preparation, and candidates should strive to be as prepared as possible before an interview.
The debate surrounding this incident has sparked a wider conversation about the expectations of employers and the preparedness of candidates. While some people may feel that Jalan was too harsh in her response, others see it as a necessary wake-up call for candidates who are not taking the job search process seriously. As the job market continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see more emphasis on preparation and research in the hiring process.
For now, the incident serves as a reminder to candidates to take the time to research a company before an interview. It is a simple step that can make a big difference in the outcome of the interview. As for Mahima Jalan, her experience has highlighted the importance of being prepared and doing one’s homework, and it is a lesson that she will likely carry with her for a long time.