um...thank you?

Ahhh...automated response mechanisms...

Sometimes they're a polite punctuation to a process that can overwhelm a person or company: "Thanks for your interest...we'll keep your information on file..."

Sometimes they just add insult to injury.

My current search for work - be it creative consulting or full-time, senior-level staff positions - has taken me down many paths. One of those paths led to a cool position with a woefully low salary [and sky-high expectations, I imagine]. I was - undoubtedly - overqualified. But as the Bush economy sputters on - it's about the bird in the hand - if you know what I mean - and it was a cool opp with what I thought was a decidedly groovy company....

BUT - nearly a month after I was personally rejected for the position by the focused 20-something I interviewed with - I received one such automated rejection letter. LOL!

I know the technical aspects of data entry and resume follow-up... However, since its signature was from the EXACT property I was interviewing to rep [albeit a generic HR signature] and not corporate HR it did cause me to pause...grimace...then laugh a little...then laugh a bunch...

Then I opened the metaphorical window and yelled - NEXT!!!!!!

"Dear Michael,

Thank you for your interest in Starwood Hotels and Resorts. We have received your application for the position of Marketing Manager (Job #60066130) at W Atlanta, Downtown and regret to inform you that we are not able to offer you a position at this time.

We recognize that you have many options available to you regarding future employment, and we sincerely appreciate your interest in us. We extend to you our wishes for a rewarding and successful career and invite you to visit us at www.starwood.jobs to view and apply for future career opportunities.

Best Regards,
Human Resources Department
W Atlanta, Downtown"

TGIF Ya'll!