Today, companies and staffing firms are facing unprecedented hiring challenges. Labor shortages are limiting access to talent. Couple that with ghosting issues – where a job seeker suddenly cuts off communication without any warning – and securing candidates becomes increasingly daunting.
Fortunately, there are steps recruitment agencies can take to avoid the ghosting trap. Often, communication is a critical part of the equation, as it boosts candidate engagement throughout the hiring process. With that in mind, here are some best practices for candidate communication that can help your staffing firm reduce ghosting.
Outline the Hiring Process from the Beginning
When you first connect with a candidate, take the time to outline the hiring process, including the overall timeline. By doing so, it lets job seekers know when they should hear back as they move forward, clarifying a critical point and boosting engagement.
Additionally, make sure to follow up whenever the candidate advances through a phase or if the timeline changes. By keeping them in the loop, you’re meeting their expectations throughout the journey. In turn, they’re far less likely to disengage.
Focus on Specific, Personalized Communication
While automated messages sent to candidates can provide value, it’s crucial not to rely on auto-generated responses alone. Automated messages are inherently impersonal, and if that’s the only regular communication a candidate receives, it can make them feel undervalued.
Instead, make sure to offer specific, personalized messages whenever possible. Discuss details that relate to that candidate as an individual, showing you’re taking the time to connect with them on a personal level. Additionally, respond to questions with customized messaging, as that demonstrates additional caring and can help you connect more strongly with candidates.
Set Expectations Regarding Candidate Communications
In many cases, it’s wise for staffing firms to outline any expectations they have regarding candidate communication. For example, letting them know that a lack of a response can disqualify them from placement can serve as a source of motivation.
However, balance that out by outlining the types of responses that can fulfill that need. For example, invite job seekers to provide feedback about an opportunity if they have doubts about whether it’s a fit. By doing that, you keep the conversation moving even if the candidate isn’t interested in a specific position, decreasing the odds that they’ll assume that ghosting is the only way to go.
Offer Comprehensive, Supportive Onboarding
The quality of your onboarding process has a distinct impact on the candidate experience, and it can reduce ghosting when properly implemented. Ideally, it’s best to use a technology-forward approach that’s designed to support the candidate during the journey, all while ensuring they have access to critical guidance along the way. By doing so, the candidate experience is elevated, and new hires feel prepared for success, making them far less likely to disappear.
At Essium, our onboarding solutions allow top recruitment agencies to bridge the talent gap and elevate the candidate experience, all while enhancing efficiency. Our contemporary onboarding technology is specifically designed with the staffing industry in mind, ensuring recruitment firms can support candidates throughout the journey, streamline internal workflows, and simplify compliance management. Schedule a consultation call with us today!
