How can I get Chapters to hire me?

January 18, 2012 12:51 PM

What's the most effective way to apply for jobs at larger chain stores that have online application services?

They seem like an exercise in futility to me. I spend hours re-writing my resume (which I've already spent hours on) and applicable experience into ridiculous online forms which then sift that information through whatever algorithm they use to decide I didn't include the right words and it's all for nothing. Meanwhile I can walk into the small independent, ask to speak to the manager and talk my way into at least an interview within minutes. The trouble is I've run out of independents and want to work for the big boys who have benefits. Does the personal technique still work for large retailers, or will I just be redirected?

posted by Carlotta Bananas to Work & Money (3 answers total)

I can tell you that for Chapters (ahem, Indigo) specifically: the manager will redirect you to the online quiz. It sucks, I know. It might benefit you to speak with them face-to-face, in case you get an interview and they remember you. But they can't even interview you unless you pass the (inane, annoying, pointless...) test.
posted by AmandaA at 1:06 PM on January 18, 2012

You will be redirected for anything below a salaried management position. And, even then, I suspect they'll have you do some online stuff.

Those online application systems are simply evil, terrible things. I've yet to run across one that wasn't poorly-constructed in one manner or another.
posted by Thorzdad at 1:06 PM on January 18, 2012 [1 favorite]

In my company, they REALLY stick to the online application and it really doesn't help to speak to them in poerson. They mostly just get annoyed at you for wasting their time if you insist on speaking to someone in person.The only thing you can really do to push things is get an endorsement or "referral" from a current employee. In my company at least, it seems like half or more of the hires are referrals (by my unofficial, unscientific observation.)
posted by raygan at 7:21 PM on January 18, 2012