So, you’ve clicked the job you want to apply for in SEEK.
Next step is to click ‘Apply for this job’.
You may be asked to sign in or register if you haven’t already done so.
Step 1 Choose documents
Upload your resumé
Select a resume stored on SEEK, or upload a new one, by selecting Upload a resumé.
The file can be in the following format (Microsoft Word (.doc or .docx), Adobe PDF (.pdf) or a text file (.txt or .rtf).
Upload cover letter
If you select Upload a cover letter the file can be in the following format (Microsoft Word (.doc or .docx), Adobe PDF (.pdf) or a text file (.txt or .rtf).
Step 2 Answer employer questions
Some employers may ask questions to determine if you meet the criteria for the role e.g. What is your right to work in Australia, or New Zealand?
Do you have a driver’s licence? How many years experience do you have in this role?
They use these questions to shortlist suitable candidates for the role.
They are an indicator that you meet the criteria for the role you are applying for.
BIAS IN RECRUITMENT
And now for something completely different. Bias in recruitment is true.
Ages ago Germany conducted a study where eight major companies adopted ‘anonymous’ hiring practices for 12 months.
Not one piece of personal or identification information was disclosed before the interview stage.
All biographical information was eliminated from the resumes and applications.
They went one step further and removed the applicants’ names too.
The researchers found recruiters short-listed more women, older people and people from ethnic backgrounds.
Apart from the social justice benefits, anonymity had a positive effect on boosting the diversity of the workforce.
The economic benefits of diversity lead to a greater range of skills and perspectives and broader economic participation.
Very few recruiters understand the nature of conscious or unconscious bias. I suggest most don’t care.
A situation where candidates are ruled ‘out’ because of their sex, age or ethnicity leaves businesses open to a discrimination complaint.
They are hard to prove but there have been successful class actions.