Faulty Online Applications

Actually, I like online applications. You can fill one out, and use it again for another job later by making a few changes. That said, many of these "time savers" don't work the way they are supposed to. Some demand you include privileged information (like social security number), and often they don't work for whatever reason. Here is a "sanitized" correspondence I had by e-mail today regarding one of these frustrating online applications...


Subject: Attn: Regarding your online application
Date: Thu, 3 Jan 2008 08:41:21 -0600
From: Sammy.Davis@emailchangedtoohahaha!
To: Cutris
Thank you for your interest in our Job's Name position. In order to be considered for this position you will need to complete your application materials. Our records indicate that you have only partially completed the online process. Please click on the following link http://applicationsitechangedhaha and finalize your application materials. You may only need to click the submit button, attach required supplemental materials, or finish your application.
Due to the holidays, you have until Friday, January 4, 2008 at 4:00 pm to complete your application. If you do not take action prior to this date your application will not be considered. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Sammy Davis
Personnel Aide
Sammy.Davis@emailchangedtoohahaha!


From: Cutris [mailto:Cutris@Cutrismailyeahright]
Sent: Thursday, January 03, 2008 9:40 AM
To: Sammy Davis
Subject: RE: Attn: Regarding your online application
I have filled this application out completely and the online program still tells me that I have not filled out "experience." I have completed the application. Your online program will not accept it.
Cutris


Subject: RE: Attn: Regarding your online application
Date: Thu, 3 Jan 2008 10:04:20 -0600
From: Sammy.Davis@emailchangedtoohahaha!
To: Cutris@Cutrismailyeahright
Looking at your application, I see that on the Supplemental Protected Class Information page (pg 7), your name and position applied for is not filled in. But everything else looks like it is filled out. Try filling in that information and then remember to hit the submit button.
Sincerely,
Sammy Davis
Personnel Aide
Place With Faulty Online Application
Sammy.davis@emailchangedtoohahaha!
Phone: 555-555-5555
Fax: 555-555-5555


I have filled it out completely. There is no "submit button," since it won't accept that I have filled out the "experience" section. I'm sorry, but I cannot spend anymore time on this, I have work to do.
Cutris


I will make a note on your application that the system is causing you problems so the search committee is aware that you have completed everything.
Sincerely
Sammy Davis