We’ve all had our fair share of experiences with HR, some positive, some… not so much. From being left in the dark after an interview to wondering whether anyone ever reads cover letters, these experiences have led to a variety of myths about how HR really works.
To clear the air, we sat down with our very own HR Manager, Sandra Hasseer, has been working as an HR for past 4 years, she comes with incredible experience at hand. Sandra helps us break down some of the most common misconceptions about hiring, interviews, and everything in between.
Myth #1: “Interviews are just a formality.”
Not true – not even close.
Interviews are a crucial part of the hiring process. They allow us to assess not just technical skills in relation to the job description, but also determine whether a candidate is the right cultural and team fit. Even when we have strong internal references, interviews help ensure we find the right person for the right role at the right time.
Myth #2: “HR ghosted me.”
We’ve all heard this one before, and many of us have felt it firsthand. The term “ghosting” has become synonymous with unresponsive HR, but the reality is often more nuanced.
These delays can be due to valid reasons such as waiting for interview feedback, internal approvals, or unexpected changes in hiring priorities. While we understand the waiting period can be frustrating, HR teams make every effort to provide timely and meaningful updates to all candidates.
Myth #3: “Resumes only get looked at for 6 seconds.”
This widely circulated stat isn’t entirely accurate. While it’s true that initial scans may be quick , if your resume matches the role, we absolutely take the time to review it in detail.
The key is relevance. Tailoring your resume to align with the specific job requirements can significantly increase your chances of standing out and moving forward in the process.
Myth #4: “Nobody reads cover letters anymore.”
This one is partly true
While cover letters may not be as heavily prioritized as they once were, they’re far from obsolete. In fact, a well-written, personalized cover letter that clearly communicates your interest in the role can still give you a competitive edge.
