Halloween is here, but there are some things in the hiring process that should never be scary. While ghosts and goblins are fun, candidates are haunted by common issues that can turn a promising opportunity into a nightmare. Let’s look at some of the top complaints from job applicants and how to keep your hiring process fright-free.
1. Ghosting After Interviews
One of the most frustrating experiences for candidates is going through multiple rounds of interviews only to never hear back. This kind of ghosting leaves a lasting negative impression on your company’s reputation. Instead, set expectations around follow-up and communicate with candidates, even if they’re not moving forward in the process. A quick message or call informing them of your decision is an important gesture of respect that candidates deserve, and unfortunately something that many candidates are not receiving from all companies. Consider also offering brief feedback on why the candidate wasn’t selected. It shows that you value their effort in the process and wish them luck in their job search. These steps go a long way in making the candidate feel acknowledged, even if the outcome isn’t what they hoped for.
2. The Dreaded Long Hiring Process
Candidates can start to feel stuck in an endless cycle of interviews, assessments, or waiting for feedback which can lead to frustration and disengagement. The longer the process drags on, the more likely candidates are to lose interest and seek opportunities elsewhere. This is concerning especially in a competitive job market, where talent is quickly snapped up. Streamline the hiring process by reducing unnecessary steps and make sure that each stage adds value. For example, consolidate interviews where possible and avoid repetitive questions! Setting clear timelines for hiring and sticking to them can help candidates feel confident that the process is moving forward. Remember, everyone wants and deserves to feel like their time is respected. Not sure if your process is candidate-friendly? Ask candidates for their feedback!
3. Lack of Salary Transparency
Despite growing awareness of the importance of salary transparency, many job postings still fail to include salary ranges. This omission can be a significant frustration for candidates, who appreciate knowing what to expect upfront. A 2022 LinkedIn survey reported that, when deciding whether to apply, the two most helpful elements of a job posting are the job responsibilities (90%) and the salary range (89%). Including salary ranges demonstrates transparency and shows respect for the candidate’s time and effort. When candidates are aware of the compensation range, they can make more informed decisions about whether to apply for a position. This transparency can also help filter out those whose salary expectations do not align with what the company can offer, ultimately saving time for everyone.
4. Unclear Job Descriptions
When job descriptions are vague or misleading, candidates can feel like they’re stepping into the unknown, which is off-putting. It’s important to clearly outline the responsibilities and expectations so candidates know what they’re applying for. This clarity helps them determine if the job is a good fit for their skills and career goals. A well-defined job description makes the hiring process smoother by ensuring everyone is on the same page from the start. Need help writing a job description? Check out this blog post for help!
5. Impersonal Communication
Automated messages can come off as cold or generic and can make candidates feel undervalued. While automation is useful for speeding up the process, adding a personal touch makes a big difference and takes a small amount of time. Taking a moment to acknowledge a candidate's relevant work history or highlighting specific achievements or skills can help them feel valued and considered.
This Halloween, don’t let your hiring process become a horror story. Addressing these common complaints can make a huge difference in attracting top talent and keeping the candidate experience positive for everyone.
The Panaro Group LLC is a top recruiting agency in Milwaukee offering:
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