GUEST COMMENT: The seven habits of highly incompetent candidates

After eFinancialCareers so controversially and comprehensively highlighted the shortcomings of the recruiter community last week last week, I feel it only fair to point out that candidates are by no means impeccable either. From long years as a financial services recruiter, this - in my experience - is what the many incompetent candidates out there are guilty of.

1) Lying

This includes lying on CVs and lying about whether they've applied to that bank before (which can cause realy pain sometimes).

2) Fake references

As an extension of lying, it is not unheard of to use friends - rather than previous employers - as referees.

3) Excessive optimism regarding exam grades

One trick at this time of year for students is to be excessively optimistic about the degree grade they expect. There is only a narrow window in which it possible to say wistfully, 'not really sure if I got a first, I guess a 2:1 is more realistic' when passing at any grade is a variable.

4) Fickleness

Some candidates accept offers verbally then renege, some even renege on signed contracts before starting.

5) Obsession/madness

Some candidates can't take 'no' for an answer, and genuinely believe that if the harass HHs or HRs, they will make them change their minds.

6) Forgetfulness

Some don't turn up for interviews.

7) Immense stupidity

Some turn up at huge firms without the name of the interviewing manager, and ask for a part of the business that employs 1,500 people hoping they can wing it from there.

The author is a partner at a financial services recruitment firm.