The PUMA story continued...
Hello FGBers!
I thought those of you who were initially interested in the post where I talked about really intrusive questions that appeared on an online application page for PUMA North America--including the one that fueled my fire--"Are you under/over 40?", might be interested in a follow-up report.
As one FGBer suggested, I wrote the CEO of the company, expressing my deep concern over an applicant's privacy, given the invasive questions contained within its online application, and calling particular attention to the illegal "age" question that, in my mind, constituted a potential breeding ground for age discrimination.
I recently received a letter, mailed via FedEX, from the company's SVP, General Counsel. It contained an explanation for the overly intrusive questioning which, in a nutshell, was that the company is part of a federal program where it receives tax credits when it hires individuals who meet certain criteria. The online application (or that part of it) is actually a federal government applicant questionnaire that determines whether certain individuals meet eligibility requirements. The letter assured me that PUMA's hiring managers do not see the applicants' supplied answers to those very personal questions.
Hmmm. I don't recall seeing at the top of the page (or anywhere on the page) that the following questions were being asked for purposes of federal tax program eligibility. I would think that that disclosure would have been a requirement, as well as an option not to answer! But I do recall, clearly, that WITHOUT answering those questions, I could not complete my application for the position. I still think that's wrong. Other than a certain section of an application that specifies it is collecting profile info and that completion is totally voluntary, I have NEVER heard of such a practice. Anyone? Human Resource professionals out there?
Anyway, in conclusion, I guess I'll simply feel satisfied that my letter was read and addressed. Thank you all for sharing YOUR concerns about that situation.
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Maybe it’s a Midwestern thing…
But it’s summer, and all I can think about is my mom’s 8-layer dip — the staple of every BBQ in the ‘80s.
Refried beans, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese… you get it. Layers on layers on layers.
Delicious? Yes.
Overwhelming? Also yes. ?
Thankfully, building a strong networking strategy doesn’t require that many ingredients.
In fact, I’ve simplified it down to just 3 layers — and none of them involve awkward small talk or cringey cold DMs.
If you’ve been applying and hearing crickets, this might be your sign to try something different.
✨ I’m hosting a 90-minute live group session to walk you through my 3 Layers of Networking — so you can start landing real conversations (and interviews) without the cringe.
Want the details? Comment “I’m in” or DM me and I’ll send them over!
? What’s one “layer” of networking you actually enjoy — or one that totally intimidates you?
#JobSearchTips
#LinkedInStrategy
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Write a Resume that Gets Read and Gets You Hired
Hiring managers and recruiters don’t read every resume; they scan for standouts. Here’s a checklist that covers formatting, keywords, summaries, and more, all designed to help your resume get noticed.
https://www.market-connections.net/blog/write-a-resume-that-gets-read-and-gets-you-hired
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A dream role position has landed on my plate while I’m not feeling my very best due to a health issue .
I’m okay 65-70% percent of time but lately it’s been flaring . I don’t want to lose the opportunity and feel I should at least try and do my best . im praying to god , to help me land this job only if its meant to be as im afraid my health “might “ affect my performance . I’m currently still going through the interview process . Would like some feedback from some mid -senior level professionals . Has anyone been in this situation before ?
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Opinion on secondment
I've been in my company for 9 months .
The perfect secondment opportunity came up .
My manager said to meet the secondment manager.
However, my meeting didn't go well.
I asked all the relevant questions but the secondment manager was very negative in her responses and I felt bad vibes.
The role was perfect and exactly what Ive been dreaming of .
But every question I'd ask she would be negative and say x person is tough x team will write bad reviews.
I didn't know if this was to check how i'd behave so I just twisted it positively and say how I'd adapt and help her with these challenges.
I rejected the opportunity but don't know if it's the right decision.
How do you determine if the secondment is right for you
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How long should you stay in a position or company? Do you think there is a standard time?
Curious to know others thoughts on this topic. I've been hearing 2-5 years. I think there are multiple factors that determines the time such as security, money, toxic space, they love the role or company, it's not your career goal, they're bored etc
1 Like • 11 Comments
Resume Red Flags
Some resume details might seem small, but to employers, they can raise big questions and they may hold back the job seeker. Here is a closer look at the red flags that might be doing more harm than good.
https://www.market-connections.net/blog/resume-red-flags
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