Feng Shui and the Art of Recruitment 

What does feng shui have to do with recruitment, you may ask? If we really think about it, recruitment draws upon many ancient rituals and customs - some good, some not so good. Take feng shui, for instance. The ancient art of creating an environment that results in harmony, tranquility, prosperity or whatever state of being is required.

In recruiting staff we arrange the physical layout of the interview room and pay attention to detail such as where the interviewee will sit. I know that many people pay little attention to such detail whilst others go to great lengths to ensure that everything is 'just right'. So what are the big turnoffs in the recruiting process?

Arriving late for interview - Lateness sends a clear message to the interviewer that you are either disinterested in the job, are unable to organize yourself or that you don't respect the fact that the interviewer has given up precious time to see you. 

Poor presentation - You are being judged the moment you enter the premises. Poor or inappropriate presentation is never excusable. If in doubt, overdress and impress!

Lack of interest or enthusiasm - It is a fact that more times than not, employers will choose candidates who are outgoing and enthusiastic. The more extraverted you can be, the better your chances of success. If we think about our feng shui example, it is natural that employers prefer to employ people who are happy, outgoing and positive.  An outgoing attitude is often related to qualities such as agreeableness, interest and action orientation. All positive attributes for any team based role.

Lack of preparation for the interview - Lack of knowledge about the job or the hiring organization signals a lack of interest in the job. Serious candidates take the initiative to find about the organization and the job, preparing questions that demonstrate interest and understanding.

Talking too much or too little - Candidates who over-respond to questions or talk too much often lack self awareness and an awareness of their impact upon others, especially the interviewer. If you want to sabotage your job chances, then holding the interviewer to ransom is one sure way of succeeding!

In seeking the right path towards recruitment nirvana remember one ancient and important concept - 'Do unto others as you would have them do unto you'.

There's nothing really mystical about it. Common sense and common courtesy lead to recruitment feng shui magic !

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