Navigating Job Search: The Human Side—We’re in This Together

In today’s job market, it often feels like candidates are at the mercy of “the employer,” a faceless entity with specific expectations about what to include on a CV and how to present oneself. However, I believe it’s crucial to recognise that employers are human beings too, and they bring their own biases, experiences, and perspectives to the hiring process.

The Pressure to Conform

As I navigate the job market, I feel pressured to conform to specific expectations when applying for positions. I often hear well-meaning advice about what “the employer” wants to see, including phrases like “the employer will do this” or “the employer wants it in this order.” But how do they know? Why can’t they see the employer as a person rather than a faceless entity with uniform expectations?

This mindset creates anxiety and self-doubt for me, making it feel as if I’m expected to anticipate a hiring manager’s every thought. The reality is that each employer has their own set of expectations based on their experiences and values, making it impossible to generalise what they truly want.

Not all companies have a dedicated HR department, which means we’re not only dealing with HR professionals who have undergone extensive training or have years of experience in human resources. Hiring decisions are often made by managers or business owners with different priorities and perspectives. This reinforces the idea that what “the employer” wants can vary significantly depending on who’s making the decision.

The CV Conundrum

Now, when I read my own CV, I see that it resembles everybody else’s. It’s formal, boring, and fits neatly into a box. I’ve been told that my CV needs to fit on one page; otherwise, “the employer” won’t read it. This may work for younger individuals just starting their careers, but for someone who has worked for years, it forces them to discard crucial information that could make a difference. I can’t help but wonder: how can an employer make a decision based on this? I’d find it difficult, and to be honest, I’m not even sure I’d call myself for an interview if I were the one hiring.

I also remember a conversation with my cousin’s daughter, who works for a large corporation. She mentioned that they don’t read cover letters because they receive hundreds of applications and simply don’t have the time. If that’s the case, why do we bother writing them? I’ve been told they need to be included, but it feels frustrating if they’re not being read.

Emphasising Humanity

My mother, who worked in the litigation department of a bank in France, often reminded me, “We are human beings; we’re not horrible people.” She believed in listening to those who reached out for help and doing everything possible to assist them. This perspective reinforces the idea that employers, too, are human beings capable of empathy and understanding. They can foster meaningful connections and recognise the value of the individuals behind the applications.

As I navigate my own job search, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of showcasing the human side of hiring. Behind every CV is an individual with unique experiences, aspirations, and qualities that can’t be captured in a list of qualifications.

We’re all in this together. By valuing authenticity and recognising candidates’ diverse backgrounds, employers can foster a more inclusive and supportive hiring process. I hope that hiring managers will take the time to see the person behind the CV, encouraging a workplace where everyone feels valued and connected.