How do you make candidates feel valued and engaged?

1 Communicate clearly and frequently

One of the most common complaints from candidates is the lack of communication from employers. They want to know what to expect, how to prepare, and what the next steps are. Don't leave them in the dark or make them chase you for updates. Instead, communicate clearly and frequently throughout the hiring process. Send them confirmation emails, reminders, feedback, and follow-ups. Let them know who they will be meeting, what they will be asked, and how long it will take. Be honest and transparent about the timeline, the challenges, and the opportunities. And always respond to their questions and concerns promptly and politely.

2 Show interest and appreciation

Candidates are not just looking for a job, they are looking for a connection. They want to feel that you are genuinely interested in them as a person and as a professional. Show them that you appreciate their time, effort, and potential by being attentive, respectful, and courteous. Ask them open-ended questions, listen actively, and acknowledge their achievements. Give them specific and constructive feedback, and thank them for their participation. And don't forget to show some enthusiasm and passion for your company, your team, and your role. Candidates are more likely to be engaged if they sense that you are excited about working with them.

3 Personalize and customize

Candidates are not one-size-fits-all, and neither should your interviewing approach be. To make candidates feel valued and engaged, you need to personalize and customize your interactions with them. This means doing your homework, learning about their background, goals, and preferences, and tailoring your questions, examples, and responses accordingly. It also means being flexible and adaptable, and adjusting your style, tone, and pace to suit their needs and comfort level. And it means being creative and innovative, and finding ways to showcase your company culture, values, and vision in a way that resonates with them.

4 Provide value and support

Candidates are not only evaluating you, but also learning from you. They want to gain something from the interviewing process, whether it is new knowledge, skills, or insights. To make candidates feel valued and engaged, you need to provide value and support to them. This means sharing relevant and useful information, resources, and tips that can help them succeed in the role. It also means offering guidance, encouragement, and feedback that can help them improve their performance and confidence. And it means being respectful, empathetic, and supportive, and creating a safe and comfortable space for them to express themselves.

5 Ask for feedback and input

Candidates are not passive recipients, but active participants. They want to have a voice, a choice, and an impact in the hiring process. To make candidates feel valued and engaged, you need to ask for feedback and input from them. This means soliciting their opinions, suggestions, and questions about the role, the company, and the process. It also means inviting them to share their concerns, challenges, and expectations, and addressing them accordingly. And it means involving them in the decision-making process, and giving them some control and autonomy over their options and outcomes.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?