08/14/2024

While scrolling through LinkedIn recently, I came across a compelling post from an HR Manager. He emphasized a simple yet powerful message: treat applicants knocking on the door of your organization with kindness and respect. It was a refreshing reminder of the human side of the recruitment process.  In the fast-paced world of recruitment, it’s easy to forget that behind every application is a person with hopes, dreams, and a unique story. 

Hiring is not just about setting up interviews; it should also include informing candidates about the outcome of their interviews.

Candidates often spend significant time and effort preparing for interviews, rehearsing their responses, and ensuring they present themselves in the best possible light. They hope for a smooth and successful interview experience. Unfortunately, many candidates feel that employers and HR personnel lack consideration and effective communication skills when it comes to informing them about the decision outcome. 

It is understandable that HR professionals and employers are busy, and their time is valuable. However, it’s important to recognize that candidates’ time is valuable, too. A well-rounded hiring process should not only focus on successful candidates but also acknowledge the efforts of those who participated in the interview process, even if they are not selected.

Hiring should be a two-way street. By providing feedback or at least informing candidates of the outcome, employers demonstrate respect for the candidates’ time and effort. Failing to do so can leave candidates feeling undervalued and disheartened. If a company does not have a system in place to communicate with all candidates, it can reflect poorly on the organization’s culture and values.

In the end, it might be a blessing in disguise for candidates who are not selected by companies that do not communicate interview outcomes. Candidates deserve to be treated with the same respect and consideration as the successful hires, as hiring is about building relationships and maintaining a positive reputation in the talent market.