A while back, I was recruiting for a client. After sourcing and screening qualified candidates, I sent him the shortlist.
He was busy and said he would get back to me. Weeks later, when he was finally ready to interview them, we had a problem. Some candidates had accepted other offers, some had lost interest, and others stopped responding.
We lost all the candidates!
A while back, I was recruiting for a client.
After sourcing and screening qualified candidates, I sent the shortlist to him.
He replied that he was busy and would get back to me.
Weeks later, he was finally ready to interview them.
I reached out to the candidates.
Some had already accepted other job offers.
Some were no longer interested.
Others didn't even respond.
We had to start the hiring process all over again.
That experience reminded me of one important thing:
Great candidates don't wait forever.
The best talent may be interviewing with several companies at the same time. While you're taking weeks to decide on the next step, another employer could be moving quickly and preparing an offer.
By the time you're ready, your preferred candidate may already be gone.
So, if you're hiring, here are a few things to consider.
1. Reduce unnecessary interview stages.
Every stage should have a clear purpose. Avoid dragging candidates through multiple rounds when fewer stages could help you make the right decision.
2. Keep candidates updated.
If you're not ready to proceed, let them know. A simple update can help maintain their interest and keep them informed about the process.
3. Set realistic timelines.
Before starting recruitment, agree on when CVs will be reviewed, interviews will take place, and final decisions will be made.
4. Make decisions faster.
Once you've identified a suitable candidate, don't delay unnecessarily. Take the time you need to assess them properly, but avoid delays that add no value to the process.
5. Respect candidates' time.
Candidates are also making decisions about their careers. They may have other interviews, existing jobs, and personal commitments to consider.
Remember, recruitment doesn't end when you find qualified candidates. You also need a hiring process that gives you a fair chance of securing them.
A slow hiring process can mean losing the very people you worked hard to find.
The goal isn't just to find the right talent. It's to hire them before another opportunity takes them elsewhere.
