Of Interest
Johnson Conley provides regular insights and updates on subjects of interest. Enjoy!
Ghost Jobs
The recent Wall Street Journal article highlights the ongoing issue of job postings that don’t lead to actual hires—so-called “ghost jobs.” While the term may feel new, the reality is far from it.
Here’s what stands out:
Fake or inactive job postings are not new. As long as companies have advertised roles, these “phantom” opportunities have existed.
Ghosting isn’t new either. Throughout my career, I’ve observed that fewer than 10% of applications receive a response from employers. The reality is, recruiters are often focused on filling roles rather than managing communication with unselected applicants.
Does this mean it’s time for a change in hiring etiquette?
It’s a fair question, but the truth is, finding work has always been a job in itself. No one is more invested in the success of your search than you. While better practices in hiring would be welcome, job seekers need to remain proactive, persistent, and resilient.
My takeaway:
Adapt your strategy. Treat your job search like a full-time project—network effectively, tailor your applications, and follow up where possible. And remember, the process might not be perfect, but your approach can make all the difference.
What’s been your experience with ghost jobs or ghosting during your job search? How do you think the hiring process can be improved? Let’s discuss! #JobSearch #HiringProcess #GhostJobs #CareerDevelopment #Resilience
Nobody gets fired for following the algorithm . . .
Nobody gets fired for following the algorithm . . .
A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences examines “quantification fixation,” a cognitive bias where individuals prioritize numerical data over qualitative information in decision-making. Through a series of experiments, the researchers found that people tend to favor options with quantifiable attributes, even when qualitative factors are equally or more important. This bias can lead to suboptimal choices, as decision-makers might overlook critical qualitative aspects. The study highlights the need for awareness of this bias to improve decision-making processes. #AI #datadrivendecisionmaking
What CIOs Read in 2024
A great reading list for technology leaders and others in today’s Wall Street Journal. I’ve read several, but not all, and I plan to add them to my list.
9/11 Tribute
On this day of remembrance, we honor the lives lost on September 11, 2001, and extend our deepest sympathies to their families and loved ones. Their memory serves as a powerful symbol of resilience, unity, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. #NeverForget #September11
The Demise of Sears Headquarters at Hoffman Estates
Amazing that the former Sears headquarters in Hoffman Estates is being demolished. Pretty soon all that will be left of Sears will be footnotes in history books and business case studies!
FTC’s Noncomplete Developments
An interesting development from the FTC, but it was struck down by a judge today(8/20/24).
An interesting development from the FTC.
Outsourcing Benefits and Risks
An interesting although an expected outcome of outsourcing challenges (Fired Americans Say Indian Firm Gave Their Jobs to H-1B Visa Holders).
Early on, outsourcing was a strategy leveraged to obtain better services than could otherwise be delivered with in-house staff. Firms could focus on their core business without having to manage an area of the business that they were unwilling to invest in. Employees would join a service provider that provided the support and access to state-of-the-art tools and techniques, not to mention career advancement opportunities. Corporate leadership championed outsourcing initiatives as part of their strategic vision. In many cases, it was a win-win-win for customer, service provider, and outsourced employees.
It was not too long before the strategy turned into a tactic to cut costs. All too often, the strategy devolved into other objectives. Creative financing to get assets off the books. Promising reduced costs that could only be delivered with staff reductions; “efficiencies.” It is no surprise that in the objective to reduce costs, labor arbitrage entered as a significant way to deliver cost savings. I recall the CEO of a major US firm reveling in the fact that he saved one hundred million dollars in operating expenses because of outsourcing. I also recall the many engagements I led providing “marriage counselling” to companies and their service providers for failed outsourcing deals.
Done well, outsourcing can be a significant strategy that delivers positive outcomes. Done poorly, outsourcing leads to higher costs, lower quality service delivery and human carnage.
9/11 Tribute
On this solemn day, I remember my time working in the South Tower, a place filled with dedicated colleagues, many of whom tragically lost their lives on September 11, 2001. Their memory remains etched in my heart and mind. I pay tribute to their unwavering commitment and the bravery they displayed in the face of unimaginable adversity. May we never forget the sacrifices made, and may their memory be a beacon of hope and unity for a better tomorrow. #NeverForget #September11
Data Center Construction in the AI Era
An interesting and understandable development in data center construction from an article in the Wall Street Journal.
AutoStore Innovates with Pay-Per-Use
An important development in the automated storage and retrieval system industry from one of the world’s largest and oldest manufacturers. This should accelerate the development of micro-distribution centers.