Here is a recent one for your reading pleasure. Over the past couple weeks I have been sourcing for a territory sales position and had the following email exchange with an applicant. Apparently he felt unencumbered by the specific instructions provided in the online employment ad. Simple instructions – all applicants were asked to either email their resume or to call.
From the applicant:
is new business coming from advertising agencies also clients who use your services in the new york city marketplace important to you?
(Unsigned, no number provided.)
My response:
I apologize, I am unclear as to your inquiry. If you are interested in learning more about the position, call me at 123-456-7890 or if you are interested in applying for it, please email your resume to me.
Thanks,
Lee
Applicant’s reply:
Hi Lee, Please read my message again regarding new business and call me to discuss
Regards Applicant 123-456-7890 office nyc
(He erased all of the previous email exchanges in his reply which required me to open his previous email to be able to read his message.)