Why millennials are failing job interviews

WASHINGTON – If first impressions count, some millennials seem to make sure their first impressions are their last.

Hiring managers have noticed young, newly graduated job seekers are doing some strange and inappropriate things during interviews, USA TODAY reports.

In one case, USA TODAY reports a college senior brought her cat to her interview – even setting the pet’s crate on her (no longer) potential boss’s desk.

At an interview for a management position with Avery Dennison, a company that makes packaging and labels, one graduate student answered a non-emergency phone call. Before then, he was a shoo-in for the job, Jonathan Singel, director of talent acquisition for Avery Denison, tells USA TODAY.

Singel blames it on a culture of tweeting and texting that has led to a lack of social skills. Coddling also plays a role.

“It’s (a mindset of) ‘You’re perfect just the way are,'” said Singel.

Helicoptering parents also play a part. Some interviewees reportedly have brought mom or dad along for the interview, with the parents even trying to take part in salary negotiations.

WTOP’s Del Walters contributed to this report. Follow @WTOP on Twitter.

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