Why Employers should consider Resumes from Unemployed Workers
When it comes to the recruitment process, employers will normally be inundated with applications for a role. These applications are likely to come from a wide range of candidates, some of which will be in current employment, some of which may not. In the rush to find a candidate with the right level of experience, some recruiters are more reluctant to consider applicants that are not currently employed.
There are a number of reasons why this is a mistake.
It could be illegal
In most countries, employment laws are set up to ensure that there is no discrimination in the recruitment process. Discounting a candidate on the basis that he/she is not currently employed does not take into account the individual's skills or experiences. There could be a number of different reasons why the candidate is not currently working. If you fail to give them an opportunity to discuss this, you could be discriminating against them. Recruit on the basis of skills and experience only.
The candidate will be available immediately
Strong candidates that are currently employed may well have to work a significant notice period to join your organization. In many professional roles, this can easily be a three-month period, during which there may be an urgent need for the position to be filled. A candidate that is between roles will be able to start very quickly and in the time it takes for another candidate to start, he/she could be three months into the role.
The candidate is likely to be keener and more flexible
Candidates that are not working are less likely to drive a hard bargain when it comes to salary and remuneration. Any period of unemployment can create a sense of urgency to work and is likely to make them extremely keen to start work and to do a good job. They are also likelier to take on difficult roles or ant-social working arrangements.
The candidate may have experience that could be very valuable
People take career breaks voluntarily just as much as those who are laid off and made redundant. While they may not be working during this time, they can still be gaining valuable experience that could be enormously beneficial to employers. Study leave can result in new training and experience. Time spent traveling can often help professionals grow and focus on their personal style. Even taking time off to look after children helps development communication and organizational skills. Work experience is valuable, but other times of experience can also be extremely desirable too.
The recruitment process relies on employers' willingness and ability to consider candidates consistently and fairly. Discounting a resume on the basis that the candidate is not currently working is short-sighted and in no way supports this way of working. Finding the right person for the role means considering a wide range of factors.
