Lets Reset The Recruiting Process
Let’s get real for a moment — We all know that the recruiting process is broken. No one will disagree that recruiting feels like an impersonal sales transaction. Who’s to blame? Recruiters, candidates and clients! Yes, every party involved shares blame.
While the process is less than ideal, the solutions are simple.
Recruiters — Stop treating candidates and clients like commodities! They’re people and should be treated as such. Put in effort to learn what your candidates and clients want. Learn who they are and what motivates them. Move past the bullets on a resume or job requisition to learn about their passions, purpose, and their character or culture. Lastly — if you can’t match a candidate with an appropriate client then don’t make the connection. Attempting to force a match is the worst thing we as talent acquisitions professionals can do.
Candidates — You share responsibility in landing a job! Don’t expect recruiters to do all the work. They’re not here to build your portfolio/resume or magically summon your perfect role. They’re here to partner with you in your search and facilitate connections where appropriate. That said, it’s your responsibility to be professional with clients and remember that recruiters don’t always have the right match. This doesn’t mean you write them off. Maintain the relationship because if you are transparent about your needs and passions, they will continue working for you and may eventually land you your dream job.
Clients — Treat candidates and recruiters like partners! Be upfront about what you need and when you need it by. Provide your recruiters pointed feedback as it helps them narrow their search. Straight Talk — we all know top talent will most likely have multiple options. If the interview process is slow or impersonal you’ll be passed over. Be frank about the employer value proposition — yes, this includes salary — and always value the candidate’s time. Remember — even if you don’t hire someone, you’re still marketing your brand. If you do hire someone, the interview process is the start of their employment i.e. create a great experience.
Lessons for all –
We’re all human beings who want to make the most out of ourselves. Be respectful and treat each other as if they were your trusted colleague.
The days of one-sided negotiations are over. Be real throughout the process from start to finish.
Networking builds brands (personal and professional.) Be willing to build a lasting relationship.
The recruiting process starts with us…recruiters, candidates and clients alike. We have a chance to change how we experience this recruiting process. Think about the process holistically, empathetically, and realistically. Trust me, we’ll all be better off.
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Hi! I’m Zeb, the Founder of tech recruiting firm Blackprint. I’ve made it my goal to shift the way recruiting is viewed and reintroduce the human factor to talent acquisition. I’m always open to challenging conversations that push the limits and, most importantly, promote growth. If you feel the same, say hello!
