Rejected Because of Your Email Address: What is Hidden Selection Criteria?
In search and recruitment, small details can make a big difference — and sometimes, the smallest detail can cost you a job interview.
Entrepreneur Ruslan Kogan famously revealed that he screens out applicants who use Hotmail instead of Gmail, reasoning that candidates passionate about technology would naturally gravitate to faster, more functional platforms. While controversial, his method highlights a growing trend - employers using unconventional filters to manage application volume and assess cultural fit.
So what are some of the lesser-known — but real — selection criteria that could be silently working against you?
Generic applications
If your cover letter doesn’t address the specific company or role, or worse, you don’t include one when asked, you might be overlooked entirely. Tailor it and explain why you're genuinely interested.Email addresses
Old-fashioned, outdated or unprofessional email domains (e.g., Hotmail, Yahoo) can give the impression that you’re not tech-savvy or up to date.Voicemail messages
A voicemail that’s unclear, casual, or automated with no personal greeting can reflect poorly on your professionalism.Phone manner
First impressions count. How you speak on the phone — tone, enthusiasm, clarity can influence perceptions before an interview even happens.Social presence
Employers increasingly search online to assess credibility, reputation and influence. An inactive or inconsistent LinkedIn profile, or questionable content elsewhere, may affect your chances.Location ambiguity
If you're applying for a job outside your local area, always address your intent to relocate. Leaving this open to assumption could be a red flag.Lack of initiative
Candidates who pick up the phone to enquire about a role show confidence and genuine interest. It’s often these candidates who get remembered.
The takeaway? Every interaction in the hiring process matters. From your first click to your final call, you're being assessed not just on experience, but on how well you align with the organisation’s expectations, culture and pace.
Whether you agree with Kogan’s methods or not, one thing is clear – professional and intentional communication will always put you ahead.