Hiring is supposed to be fair. But even when employers don’t mean to discriminate, some hiring practices can still unfairly disadvantage certain groups. This is known as adverse impact—and it’s a concept that every job seeker should understand. Whether you’re navigating job applications, prepping for an assessment, or wondering why you didn’t move forward, knowing…
Applying Early to Job Postings: Why It Helps You Get Noticed
When it comes to landing interviews, applying early to job postings can give you a major edge. Many job seekers wait days—sometimes even weeks—to perfect their resume before submitting an application. But by the time they finally apply, recruiters may have already reviewed a batch of early candidates and moved on. In today’s fast-paced hiring…
Recruiter Ghosting After a Verbal Offer: What to Do Next
Recruiter ghosting after a verbal offer is one of the most frustrating situations in the job search. You were told the job was yours. You may have turned down other offers or started planning your resignation. And then—radio silence. Unfortunately, this scenario is increasingly common. According to a LinkedIn News survey, 45% of job seekers…
Recruiter Ghosting: Why It Happens and What You Can Do About It
You apply for a job. You talk to a recruiter. Maybe you even have an interview.Then—silence. No response. No feedback. Just the dreaded experience of recruiter ghosting. If this has happened to you, you’re not alone. Recruiter ghosting is frustrating, but in most cases, it’s not personal. By understanding why it happens and how to…
How Companies Select Candidates (and How to Prepare)
When you apply for a job, it might feel like your resume disappears into a black hole. But behind the scenes, most companies use structured, research-based hiring systems—often developed by industrial-organizational (I/O) psychologists—to make the process more consistent, fair, and effective. If you understand how these systems work, you can prepare smarter and dramatically increase…
Can I Round Up My GPA on My Resume?
You’re at a 2.94. Do you write 3.0? It’s a common dilemma for job seekers, especially recent graduates: Can I round up my GPA on my resume? If your GPA is 2.94, is it acceptable to list it as 3.0? What about 3.49 to 3.5, or 3.96 to 4.0? While these adjustments might seem minor,…
Disclosing Criminal Record on Job Application: What You Should Know
If you’re wondering about disclosing a criminal record on a job application, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most stressful parts of the hiring process for many job seekers with past convictions. You might ask yourself: This guide covers when you should disclose, what the law says, and how to talk about your record…
Background Checks for Job Seekers: What You Need to Know
Background checks for job seekers can feel intimidating, even for the most qualified candidates. You might worry: Here’s the reality: most background checks for job seekers are standard and straightforward. They’re designed to confirm the basics, not to dig into your personal life or find reasons to reject you. Let’s break it down—what background checks…
Should You Include Your GPA on Your Resume? When It Matters
As a job seeker—particularly a recent graduate—you might wonder: Should I include my GPA on my resume? Some believe a high GPA showcases diligence and intelligence, while others argue that, beyond your first job, it holds little significance. So, which perspective is correct? The answer is: It depends. In certain situations, listing your GPA can…
How Long Does It Take to Hear Back After a Job Interview? Real Timelines Explained
You walk out of the interview feeling hopeful. You’ve sent your thank-you email, and now you’re waiting—wondering how long does it take to hear back after a job interview. The silence can feel endless. It’s one of the most frustrating parts of the process. But having worked alongside recruiters for years (and trained more than…