1)  You’re a cat when I need a dog. I can’t count the number of SEM/PPC resumes I get for SEO related positions. If you’re involved in the PPC field then you know there’s a difference between the two.  Why even apply?

2)  You’ve got book smarts, but no street smarts.  I have a very low interest in where you went to school or what degree you have unless it is directly applicable to the job in question.  Work experience is far more valuable than a degree.  Sorry, I know that degree was expensive.

3)  You don’t know your stuff.  I don’t care that you know what Meta tags are.  Who doesn’t?  You better bring something else to the table if you want the job. Don’t talk about PR. Don’t talk about meta tags. It reveals your lack of knowledge in the field.

4)  You have the social graces of a hobo.  I have had applicants sit across from me in an interview chewing gum with their lips smacking. Unless you’re a previous Google search engineer with the keys to the kingdom, you might as well leave because there’s no way I want to listen to that crap every day.  It also gives me insight into your character.  Pass.

5)  You’re over priced. I know we all want money, but you need to manage your expectations. If you’re coming into an entry to mid-level position you shouldn’t be expecting a 6-figure salary.

6)  You didn’t pass the test.  This isn’t a metaphor or an analogy.  I give all serious SEO applicants a test in order to verify their skills.   Most people can cram a lot of information into their short term memory but it doesn’t mean they actually know what they’re talking about or are able to apply it to real world situations.

7)  You bruised my ego.  I’m the Director of SEO for the company.  Don’t you think I know something about the field?  Don’t talk down to me or try to teach me about SEO.  And don’t try to tell me that “there are things we aren’t doing with our site.”  People that say that to me before the interview don’t even get one.

8)  You’re an affiliate, not an SEO.  Some people are just not meant to work for a company.  Maybe you are a born entrepreneur.  Or maybe you’re always been rebellious.  Or maybe you’re a newbie to the SEO field and you’ve been bitten by the affiliate bug.  Frankly, I don’t want these people working for me.  They typically have very little loyalty to the company and often have problems juggling their tasks at work and their personal projects.   I want 100% of your attention.

9)  You’re a nomad.  When I look at your resume and see that you’ve moved from job to job it isn’t comforting.  Why should I dedicate resources to train you and get you acclimated to our system when you’re going to leave in 6 months?  Pass.

10)   You didn’t show.  This sounds crazy, but there’s been numerous occasions where applicants didn’t even show up.   What’s worse than not showing up?  Being late!  Don’t even bother showing up late for your interview if you’re going to be late.  Plan for traffic.  Expect the unexpected.   Just don’t be late.