Employer Perspective of the Month

BACK TO CAREERS

Yazmar Martinez, human resource manager at Basnight Land & Lawn

What do you look for in applicants?
“We hire candidates who best meet the qualifications outlined in our job announcements. We especially look for organization.”

What do you expect potential employees to wear to an interview?
“I prefer a person who comes appropriately dressed – no jeans, no T-shirts.”

Can you describe something that someone has said or done that “cost him or her the job?”
Martinez has seen candidates fill out an application, but leave the experience section blank. “Don’t bother filling out an application with just a name and address,” she said.

Once on the job, what are the qualities and behaviors that make a standout employee?
“Basnight expects its employees to be on time and do the job well. In the landscaping business, following instructions is key.”

Anything else you would like to share about Basnight or the hiring process?
“Basnight also gives potential employees an assessment to determine how they will work on the job.”

“Now that spring is here, Basnight has a substantial amount of work to do. To meet the demand, Basnight participates in the federal H2B program, bringing 100 workers from Mexico for nine months. This year’s workers arrived March 24 and will stay through Dec. 1. Basnight has employed workers with H2B visas for five years.”

Jobs vary as much as the people applying for them. There are a few factors, however, that play a role in any job search:

General Personality: For many employers, your personality fit with a company is as important as your skills!
Personal Appearance: A neat, attractive appearance is critical for a good first impression.
Grades: Many employers use school grades as a way to evaluate candidates. Make sure you can explain marked deficiencies.
Work Experience: Be able to articulate how past job experiences will enable you to do the job for which you are interviewing.
Verbal Communication Skills: This includes your ability to listen effectively, verbalize thoughts clearly and express yourself confidently.
Skills To Perform The Job: It is important to emphasize the skills which the employer is seeking and to give specific examples of how you developed them.
Goals/Motivation: Employers will assess your ability to articulate your short and long-term goals.
Knowledge Of The Recruiter's Company and Industry: Don't waste time asking questions that are answered in the company’s public material.

Maria Rodriguez provided information for this section. Ms. Rodriquez has over five years experience in the staffing industry with expertise in career management advising, resume writing and job placement. She has also been a Board Member of the Hampton Roads Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.