Why BP's Tony Hayward Could Work in HR

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I'm glad to say we always acknowledge applications/resumes that we receive, no matter how many. I know what it feels like to be on the other end, and we make it a top priority that all applicants be acknowledged.
I agree with this article as I have many friends currently out of work who complain about the same thing -- unacknowledged resumes, applications, cover letters. Even if one applies online, they should get some sort of response. HR should demonstrate basic courtesy, and besides that, companies leave a negative impression by ignoring applicants. Acknowledging an application demonstrates respect and leaves a positive image that someone took the time to acknowledge them, even if one doesn't get the job.

Sara of NH 2:58PM July 19, 2010

Most places I've applied do show the basic courtesy of a "Yep, we got your resume" form letter.
I think form letters can also be used for the situations where people don't meet the qualifications at all. "Thanks very much for applying, but position X requires 10 years experience with Y and a bachelor's degree in Z. We will keep your resume on file and will let you know if any openings arise that better meet your qualifications." You could then e-mail that out to all the hundreds of people who applied without the qualifications. Not only is it polite, but it discourages those people from throwing out resumes randomly.
I also think form letters for a position would be an excellent place to include general information about the timetable, at least as much as you know. Why not let everyone who applied for a given job know that you're looking to do interviews the last couple weeks of June or that you'll make a final decision mid-September. This might actually save time, because giving people an idea when to expect to hear something may keep them from calling you a billion times.

KellyK of MD 9:35AM June 25, 2010

HR routinely falls flat in this area. I hate to admit it, but as an HR person, I've seen it first hand. They forget that it is just as much about selling the company as it is recruiting.

Suzanne Lucas 1:22AM June 24, 2010

The problem today is that too many people apply for a job. Since the effort to apply is little more than a few mouse clicks, hundreds of people apply to a job posting, of which, maybe 25% are in the ballpark when it comes to qualifications. In the days when an ad was put in the paper, and it actually took some time and thought to produce a cover letter, maybe tailor a resume, people were much more thoughtful and applied when they were qualified. CareerBuilder, Monster, and even company career websites changed the game. However, I would agree that if a company does reach out to you after you've applied, they need to update you on your candidacy status whether or not they intend to hire you - This is where too many employers drop the ball.

Mr. HR of KS 3:02PM June 22, 2010