🤯 Tell me, that it is me who is going crazy 🥴
About a year ago, I was studying abroad in Malaysia and started thoroughly researching software engineering internships for when I returned home. I ended up applying to 20 companies in Denmark, but faced rejection and an extreme lack of response from several companies, amongst Nets Denmark, Nordea, Capgemini, SoftPay, HBK, and Royal Unibrew just to name a few.
To put it briefly, out of the 20 companies I applied to, I only received a response (including rejections) from 6 of them. To me, it’s outrageous that just 1 out of 4 companies bother to reply to applicants who have put in a significant amount of time and effort into researching the company and writing a well-written application? I found myself feeling confused and frustrated, trying to understand why my emails were met with complete and utter silence. While I understand that companies are busy and competition is tough nowadays, it wouldn't be too difficult for them to set up an auto-reply email for applicants who have reached out two months ago, stating, “Sorry, we cannot fulfill your request, but we wish you the best.” I know this because I have implemented something like this on my own, and it only took a day to set up!
However, amidst the disappointments, I remembered my interaction with Schneider Electric (unbiased opinion). They were responsive and willing to have a quick chat to assess my potential. They even replied to my email within 3 days, which was completely unheard of for me at that time. I ended up securing an internship at Schneider Electric, and currently I am writing my thesis with them. I couldn't have asked for a better opportunity.
This experience has forced me to highlight the issue of lack of response to internship- and or general applicants when speaking to other young people who are also searching for internships at software companies. Somehow, we are forgotten amidst the flood of emails and phone calls. This is something that needs to change if we want to attract and retain talented applicants who can contribute to our companies on a day-to-day basis. Who is with me!?
#response #applicant #frustrated
Love to see it! The future of contracting is bright! ⚡