In a recent comprehensive survey conducted by WorkPro, shedding light on the preferences and expectations of over 2,400 individuals, we've uncovered valuable insights into the candidate experience. Focused on the aspects of speed, ease of use, and transparency, the findings highlight critical factors that can significantly impact hiring success.
According to the survey, an impressive 44.4% of candidates reaching the second interview stage express a reluctance to wait more than a week for a job offer. Notably, 37.5% of respondents in the 25–34 age group and 23.2% in the 35–44 age group share this sentiment. This underlines the growing importance of swift decision-making in the recruitment process.
Transparency emerges as another pivotal element in shaping a positive candidate experience. Jobseekers are seeking detailed insights into salary, company culture, and feedback during the hiring journey, making it imperative for employers to provide comprehensive information.
In terms of communication preferences, a striking 86.4% of candidates express a preference for email and phone calls. This preference is particularly prominent in the 25–44 age group, suggesting that candidates in this demographic, often mid-career professionals, value discretion and efficiency during their busy workweeks. Interestingly, video calls are the least favoured method of communication, garnering only 5% popularity.
The survey highlights that online job boards (31%) continue to be the most popular avenue for job discovery, followed closely by recruiter outreach (23.6%).
An intriguing revelation from the survey is the significant misalignment between jobseekers' expectations and the reality of their experiences, with the average time-to-hire currently standing at 44 days. To bridge this gap and optimise the recruitment process, the whitepaper suggests several key strategies:
- Leverage AI for Skills Matching:
Implement artificial intelligence to enhance skills matching, ensuring a more efficient and accurate selection process.
- Automate Candidate Communication:
Streamline communication with candidates through automation, facilitating timely and transparent updates.
- Reduce Interview Rounds:
Minimize interview rounds wherever possible to expedite decision-making and enhance the overall candidate experience.
- Implement Automation for Initial Screening:
Especially beneficial for younger age groups and tech-savvy industries, incorporating automation for initial screening can significantly accelerate the hiring process.
- Strategic Background Checks:
Invest in and deploy background checks strategically to prevent unnecessary delays, ensuring they are conducted at the right stages of the hiring process.
The whitepaper also suggests a shift in focus from industry-specific experience to transferrable skills, particularly for senior-level positions. As candidates increasingly express openness to exploring opportunities in new industries, emphasizing adaptable skills becomes crucial.
By embracing these recommendations, recruiters can not only meet but exceed candidate expectations, fostering a more efficient and positive recruitment experience for both employers and potential hires.