An imbalance in the job market can sometimes lead to distorted perspectives on both sides of the employer-candidate equation. Employers may become overconfident, which can push them to set unrealistic standards for candidates, treat applicants disrespectfully, or encourage groveling on the assumption that desperate candidates will make better employees. And on the employee side, this distortion can cause otherwise self-respecting men and women to lower their standards, discredit their talents and qualifications, and pursue positions they know will make them unhappy.

One sign of imbalance and distortion has appeared recently in some ads posted by misguided hiring managers. “The unemployed need not apply” and similar messages preemptively rejecting unemployed candidates are rare, but they’re out there. And if you encounter this message as a job seeker, you’ll need to keep a few considerations in mind as you make your next move.

Before Pursuing Employers who Overlook Unemployed Candidates, Think Twice

First, think before you act. Employers who discredit unemployed candidates out of hand are acting irrationally and making important business decisions based on a whimsical prejudice. There’s no faster way to alienate potential talent and let excellent, hardworking applicants slip away. Is this really a company you want to sign on with? Does this message suggest that the company is heading in a strong direction,maintains a positive culture, and knows how to make informed, well-grounded decisions? Probably not.

More important, will you be happy working for these people? Only you can answer this, but stop and think before you do. Your skills, experience and qualifications may be better used and better appreciated elsewhere. Respond to the ad, but only if you really, really want this job.

You Really, Really Want This Job

You’ve been warned, but if you truly have your heart set on this position, feel free to proceed. Recognize that these employers see an imaginary connection between unemployment and personal weakness. So you’ll need to overcome this prejudice by proving that your unemployment was not your fault. This may mean providing a recommendation letter written by your last employer, or answering detailed questions about how your unemployment came to pass. You may also need to provide reassurance that directly addresses the company’s concerns. If this hiring manager believes unemployed candidates are lazy, for example, gather evidence in support of your strong work ethic. You may be asked to provide this evidence if you’re called in for an interview.

For more guidance on winning over difficult employers, contact Expert Staffing and speak to our job search experts.