HirexFire: Sharing Too Much Personal Information
H I R E ╳ F I R E
You can learn a lot by witnessing what NOT to do in interviews and throughout the recruiting process at large. We’ve pulled together a few cringe-worthy scenes with life advice to interview and be interviewed better than some of Hollywood’s best.
A Lesson From Step Brothers on
Sharing Too Much Personal Information
“Other weaknesses: we’re slow learners, and we’re not particularly good listeners.“
“That’ll be, uhhh, that’ll be a huge problem.”
“We’re also slow learners.”
STRIKING A BALANCE BETWEEN UNDER & OVER SHARING
TO THE EMPLOYER:
The first step towards improvement is identifying the issue and opportunity.
It’s fair to ask candidates about their shortcomings. You should probe past performance reviews, consider informal feedback from colleagues or customers, and evaluate the candidate’s self-awareness.
Focus on the candidate’s wherewithal to recognize an opportunity for their advancement AS WELL AS their ability to self-identify actions to course correct. Also, don’t be surprised when the candidate flips the script, asking about the company’s shortcomings and improvement plans.
TO THE CANDIDATE:
Begin by recognizing that humans are imperfect, and no one expects you to be the exception.
The ol’ “strengths and weaknesses” questions are practically prehistoric in the hiring world, yet interviewees still manage to be caught off guard!
Whether you’re just starting or in a mid-job search, reflect on your performance and the feedback you’ve been given in the past. Take a moment to be candidly introspective. Ask yourself, "How could you improve?”
Process this. Take it to heart. Then, detail your plan for self-improvement.
HXH BOTTOM LINE:
The Interview Process is a 2-Way Street
Both parties need to be realistic about what they’re bringing to the table. The candidate and employer should prepare to transparently and thoughtfully share their areas for improvement and action plans. Doing this will signal self-awareness, authenticity, and a commitment to continual professional development.
