I really wrestled with the decision whether to write this post or not. In writing - well what I'll be writing about - I realized I must be crossing over some line from whatever I used to be to being the type of "old timer" that complains about stuff like this....
So, it's 10:37 and I am now into the 37th minute of waiting for an intern candidate that had enthusiastically assured me how much she was looking forward to meeting with me for a 10:00 interview. And I was equally enthusiastic. Of course I will not reveal her identity as I am not spiteful - once on the blogosphere that could hurt her other chances for opportunities.
In any event, the candidate attends a local quality college, has an impressive GPA, has won numerous scholarships, is part of an honor society, deans list - you get the picture. Her well written cover letter intelligently outlined why she would be an asset to our organization. And as an added bonus she was available to work regular hours during the week. Perhaps it was all just a mirage? Any of you who work with unpaid interns - yes, this is an unpaid internship - know what a find someone like this can be.
After agreeing to our time, I also specified how to find our office and gave my number just in case she is lost. I have noticed that people don't have the easiest time finding our office.
So here I am - after skipping over starting some other more specific projects where I wanted the benefit of time - in the 45th minute of the hour.
My question is why? Specifically why have I not heard from her. My hunch is that in the interim between setting this appointment and today, she found an opportunity she chose to take. I get it and that happens. And I'll be candid, this isn't the first time this has happened. And my guess is that it won't be the last. As I discuss this topic with other folks at non-profits, we sort of take it in stride and just accept it that it comes with the territory.
But does it really? Is there any reason - especially in the nameless, faceless and way easier world of "thank goodness I don't have to pick up a phone anymore" a candidate for either an internship or volunteer can't just email and take a pass. How much more respect would I have for anyone with the guts to write a note that simply says "Dear Mr. Grabel, Just wanted to let you know that I'm going to pass on our meeting today. I've found an opportunity that I'm going to take and didn't want to take up your time. Thanks anyway, Ms. Candidate". By the way I timed myself and that would have taken less than two minutes to write.
Who am I writing this to? Am I trying to start some new movement? No. I guess in reality I'm sharing some frustration. I guess in line with what we do at Teens Run Yonkers, I'm really questioning what we're teaching young people. Also, my hope is that if you're one of the 22 to 25 people who look at this blog (yes, I do look at blogger stats)- AND I WOULDN'T MIND A FEW MORE - you consider what I'm saying. If you're considering volunteering or interning somewhere, show those folks the same courtesy you would a potential employer. What do you have to lose - well, about 2 minutes of your time. What do you have to gain? Well, the respect of that organization and if you ever decided you have an interest, an open door (or at least not a completely closed one)
Finally, and here's where I'll sound old school - what are they teaching students these days? We're looking at colleges for my daughter right now. All I can say is that for the bucks they're asking for, I hope they're throwing in Etiquette 101. In today's economy, why would you choose to show such disregard and disrespect for individuals that you may not only encounter again - while we're all more networked than ever, it's a pretty small world - but someone if treated kindly would be a contact and advocate for you? Am I old fashioned?
Anyway, sorry for my semi-rant for the day but in today's day and age of weapons of non-stop communication, I just don't get this behavior. Oh well, this too shall pass.
Anyone know someone looking for an internship?
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