Make Candidates Feel Valued So They Don't Disappear During the Hiring Process

Ghosting isn’t just a dating trend—it’s happening in hiring too. Why? Poor communication, long hiring timelines, or job seekers feeling undervalued. To keep top talent engaged, here’s how you can make candidates feel valued so they don’t disappear. 

Be Professional 

An important characteristic that job seekers look for is professionalism. Every candidate wants to work for a legitimate organization that is well organized and structured. Ensure that emails are punctual and grammatically correct. Employees should also be professional. That means responding to emails within 24-48 business hours, keeping candidates informed about the next steps, and respecting the time candidates take for interviews. 

Build Relationships

It is essential to build meaningful connections with your candidates. Establishing connections based on interests and activities displays a deeper dedication to your candidate. It shows that you truly care and can empathize with them. Having things in common also separates you from the other potential employers the candidate is speaking with. A quick follow-up email referencing something the candidate shared—like their passion for AI or their favorite book—shows that you see them as more than just a resume.     

Showcase Amenities

Did your company install a brand-new gym or build a new cafe in the downstairs lobby? Showcasing amenities can persuade candidates to work for you. Even if your company doesn’t have these things, highlight flexible work options, wellness programs, or a strong team culture that makes your workplace stand out. 

Career Growth

Where does your candidate see themselves in the next 5 years? Are they seeking a company that offers training programs and promotion opportunities? Having an open and honest discussion about future plans and long-term goals prepares candidates for what’s next in their career. Whether that’s through mentorships, training programs, or leadership opportunities be sure to ask candidates about their long-term career goals and show them how your company can help them grow. 

Candidate Surveys

Everyone is different. We are all unique with different personalities and preferences. Requesting your candidate take a short survey can be very impactful to your hiring process. Not only do surveys offer continuous feedback, they also show you in greater detail what your candidates liked and what can be improved. Using your candidate feedback may also help improve future hiring processes. Consider implementing a quick post-interview survey asking candidates about their experience. This data can help refine your hiring process over time - you will know what to keep doing and what to change.

By making candidates feel valued, you not only can reduce ghosting but also attract top talent who genuinely want to work for you. Being professional, building relationships, showcasing amenities, having opportunities for career growth, and keeping a pulse on what candidates find valuable is a good place to start improving your hiring process. The changes you make today will lead to stronger hires tomorrow.