Cattle Calling: How NOT to Conduct a Job Interview

A couple of weeks ago, my husband went for a 7 AM scheduled interview with a company that produces and sells soapstone countertops. He was anticipatory, if not excited; he’s been looking for awhile.

Afterward, he described it as a “cattle call.” Here’s what happened:

There were six other job applicants – all women except for my husband – and they were ushered into the showroom area where the company owners dictated that everyone explain to the group why they were qualified for this job, what their backgrounds were, and what they considered unique about themselves.

If that wasn’t enough of a shock for people thinking they were going to a one-on-one interview, they all then had to break into two groups for some further “exercises.” They were then taken on a group tour of the facilities.

After the tour, the owners stood in front of the group and singled out two people: one woman who worked for a competitor and the youngest, most attractive woman in the group. These two women were chosen for interviews; everyone else was told to “Go home. We’ll call you if we want to talk to you later.”

As my husband walked out of this business (for life, one hopes), one of the unchosen ran crying to her car and another exclaimed, “Even if these people offered me a job, I wouldn’t take it!”

Who can blame her? Too many employers seem to believe that today’s economy gives them license to treat people as cattle: interchangeable, with no human feelings to bruise, so used to hardship that they’ll do almost anything to keep themselves fed.

Maybe it’s time to corral the disrespect, brand ourselves worthy, and take back the range!

Are You a Good Customer?

Seventy percent of customers who leave an organization to do business elsewhere cite customer service as the reason. Are you part of the reason that customers leave your organization?

Take a few minutes to honestly answer the questions. Based on your answers, give your self a grade, A-F, and again, be honest. The grading goes as follows, yes to all questions is an A, all but one a B, all but two is a C, if you miss three give yourself a D and if you answer no to three or more, give yourself an F.

Remember, as often as you are giving customer service you are also receiving customer service.

Ask yourself the following questions:

Do I make it easy for others to work with me?
Do I seek to understand the issue before I seek to say my piece?
Do I phrase requests in a friendly way?
Do I give others the benefit of the doubt until I have a reason not to?
How well do I handle it when something doesn't go my way?
Do I reciprocate when someone helps me?
Do I notice exceptional customer service at work?
Do I thank my coworkers when they provide me with good service?

My grade is______

Based on the reflection of your own experiences as a customer, commit to one or two actions you will take to become a better customer.