Do you really care about your candidates?

Hiring new talent is one of the most important decisions a business leader can make. A company's success is heavily dependent on the quality of its people, and therefore, finding the right candidate is crucial.

However, it's not just about finding the right fit for the job, but also about providing excellent candidate care throughout the hiring process.

Why is candidate care important?

The hiring process is a two-way street. While companies are looking for the best fit for their organisation, candidates are also evaluating the company and the opportunity. A poor candidate experience can leave a lasting negative impression on potential workers, which can harm the company's reputation in the long run. Negative feedback on websites like Glassdoor and social media platforms can also deter other top candidates from applying in the future.

On the other hand, providing excellent candidate care can differentiate a company from its competitors and create a positive experience for candidates. Even if a candidate doesn't get the job, they may still recommend the company to others and become an advocate for the business.

Let's look at some steps to achieve excellent candidate care.

Clear communication

One of the most important aspects of candidate care is clear communication. Companies must provide timely updates throughout the hiring process, including acknowledgement of applications, interview schedules, and feedback after interviews. This not only keeps candidates informed but also shows that the company values their time and effort.

Respect the candidate's time

Respecting a candidate's time is a crucial aspect of candidate care. Companies should provide sufficient notice for interviews and be punctual. Candidates often take time off work or rearrange their schedules to attend interviews, so being respectful of their time can make a significant difference in their experience.

Provide a positive experience

Providing a positive candidate experience is essential to attracting and retaining top talent. Companies should ensure that the interview process is structured and informative, allowing candidates to learn more about the company and the role.

Additionally, companies can offer to show them around their office or campus or a virtual meet with potential future colleagues and of course, provide opportunities for candidates to ask questions.

Offer a personalised interaction

A personalised interaction can make a candidate feel valued and appreciated. Companies should personalise their communication as much as possible. This should include relating to them personally and their situation rather than using a generic template or sending a mass email. You don't want the candidate to feel like just another number in the applicant pool.

Include feedback

Providing feedback to candidates is crucial to improving their skills and preparing them for future interviews. Feedback should be constructive, specific, and focused on the candidate's performance during the interview. It's also essential to provide feedback promptly to ensure that candidates can improve their skills for future opportunities.

Excellent candidate care is paramount for business leaders when hiring people. Providing a positive candidate experience not only attracts top talent but also creates a positive impression of the company.