How NOT To Be Ghosted By Your Job Candidates

Ghosting is when someone accepts your job interview invitation, confirms intentions to attend... and then "poof". Doesn't show up or call.

Ghosting can happen. But there are best practices you can employ (pun intended) to limit the chance your job candidate will ghost you.

To avoid ghosting in recruiting, follow these best practices:

1. Set Clear Expectations:

From the Start: Explain the recruitment timeline, key milestones, and expected response times.

Transparency: Outline what candidates can expect after each stage.

2. Communicate Timely:

Regular Updates: Inform candidates about their application status regularly.

Prompt Responses: Answer candidate inquiries and applications quickly.

3. Personalize Communication:

Personal Touch: Use personalized messages, addressing candidates by name and referencing specific details about their application or interview.

Feedback: Provide constructive feedback, even if the candidate is not selected.

4. Maintain Professionalism:

Respectful Interaction: Treat all candidates with respect, valuing their time.

Consistent Follow-Up: Follow up after interviews or assessments as promised. Inform candidates promptly if timelines change.

5. Use Technology and Tools:

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS): Use ATS like KinISO staffing software or Bullhorn to manage and track candidate communications effectively.

Automated Updates: Implement automated email updates to keep candidates informed about their application status.

6. Engage and Build Relationships:

Candidate Experience: Focus on creating a positive candidate experience.

Build Relationships: Engage with candidates on professional networks like LinkedIn and keep the door open for future opportunities.

7. Train and Standardize:

Train Recruiters: Ensure your team is trained on effective communication and timely responses.

Standard Procedures: Develop and follow standard procedures for candidate communication at each stage.

8. Gather Feedback: Collect feedback from candidates about their experience and use it to improve your recruitment process.

By following these steps, recruiters can reduce ghosting and create a transparent, respectful, and engaging recruitment process.