There is a lull in the job search at the moment–I’m not finding much new to apply for. So I’m in “hurry up and wait” mode, and it’s driving me crazy.
I did have a phone interview with hiring managers last week. Unfortunately, neither they, nor the job posting, nor the HR rep who screened me, mentioned that a critical component of that position is travel. I simply don’t travel for business. It’s too difficult with my food allergies, because I need a kitchen and access to a grocery store. What were they thinking when they wrote the job description? Travel is a dealbreaker for a lot of people, so most employers mention it up front.
Only when I started asking questions did the need for travel get mentioned. From the shocked and utter silence when I told them that I can’t travel, I think it hadn’t occurred to them to screen for this. I was the first candidate they’d spoken with about this position, and it’s new for them to hire someone into the group who will visit customers on site.
So that was utterly disappointing, because up until then, I was very excited about the position. I gave myself one night to feel horrible, and then I let it go. After all, if the job had stated up front that travel was required, I simply wouldn’t have applied. I am no worse off–I didn’t lose something that wouldn’t have been right for me to begin with, right?
In any case, I went to Como Park Conservatory today to get out of the house and think about something other than the job search for a little while. This is the third time I’ve gone there since getting laid off, though, and I’m a little bored with it. So I’ll have to find another inexpensive getaway to amuse myself when I need a break. I did, however, get a lovely picture of this Paradise Tanager, so the visit was worth the $2 donation:
Paradise Tanager
Well that’s to bad about that job. Your right though, they should have mentioned something about travel since it’s a big part of the job.
I love the Tanager. They are so beautiful. Good luck with staying busy. That’s so important.
Glad you enjoyed the Tanager picture! It was so nice to spend a little time there yesterday. In June, the butterfly exhibit opens up at Como Zoo, and I’d like to pop out there to photograph butterflies as well.
I hope things are going ok for you too, Joy.
That sucks about the job. Travel is a big deal breaker for lots of people. Weird that they did not mention it.
Glad you were able to get out and enjoy the day.
Ooh, threaded comments!
Yeah, it’s weird that they didn’t mention it. The job posting still doesn’t. A friend of mine said he thinks it’s intentional–that they’re trying to draw people in and aren’t going to tell them until late in the process. By which point, the person will likely agree to do it since it’s only 2-3 times a year.
I’m not sure if I’m that cynical, but I suppose it’s possible. Seems like a big waste of time, though, and after talking to me, I’d hope they’re not being stupid about it and not telling other candidates! I did send a friend their way since travel isn’t a problem for her. Don’t know if they’ll contact her based on my recommendation, but in this economy, anything that can draw an employer’s attention to you might help.