Eric Nelson | MGMT 548 Spring 2022
The most recent job I applied for was my first job at Nike. I had multiple jobs during my time at Nike- but my first job was the one time I had to apply for a job.
My job application experience was this. I learned Nike had an open sales position in Michigan. I wrote a letter to the hiring manager explaining why I wanted to work for Nike and how I might add value to their sales team. I faxed my letter to the hiring manager. (Yes, faxed, -please feel free to laugh at my expense on this- I do!) I received a call to meet the hiring manager at the airport. Over coffee we discussed Nike, the job, and got to know one another as people. The hiring manager asked if I would meet him again at the Nike office in Chicago. At the meeting in Chicago, I met briefly with two other managers and met again with the hiring manager where I was offered the job. From learning of the job to receiving the job offer was four days.
My experience compared to the experience of applying for a job today is vastly different. Yet, reflecting on the points discussed in the Introduction chapter of the book Who it also struck me that these points were as relevant then as they are today. I had a sincere desire to work for Nike when I applied but was fortunate to already be in the industry and owned my own sales agency. The tipping point at that time was the positive experience provided by the hiring manager. The hiring manager was clear on what was needed in the job and given the short time in deciding to extend an offer the hiring manager trusted his ability to select a candidate. And having worked for and contributed to Nike for 30 years, I’d like to think I was possibly the right candidate :).
3 responses to “Job Application Process”
Hi Eric,
Great post! It was so interesting to read your experience and how that is so vastly different to mine as, mine was all done remotely. The process seems a lot shorter.
Do you think the process would still but similar for you due to the amount of experience you have?
Again great post, thank you for sharing!
Eric,
I notice what you mean by how this is the firs time you have had to apply for a job. I have gotten a few jobs and never had to interview for them too haha. Its funny how you talked about faxing your letter to the hiring manager because I actually do that but I do it as a preference since it is a method that tends to stick out. Judging from the information you gave and all of your previous experience I would definitely say you were the right candidate for that job at NIKE. Congrats!
Hi Eric,
I’m surprised to hear of how quickly the offer was solidified. In every experience I’ve had, there is always many weeks to months of testing to find out if I’m the right candidate. Although I can understand the benefit technology has brought companies to screen a candidate, sometimes I wish every process was as informal and easy as yours.
After 30 years, I think they made the right choice too! From reading your article, you clearly had to dedication and drive to work for Nike.