Many candidates today feel that they are not fully respected in the job search process. In the area of saying “sorry” to a candidate and rejecting them for a position with feedback, I agree that they have a point.
The recruiting community could do a better job of keeping candidates informed of their status. Candidates feel like they are treated with respect until the recruiter or company does not feel that they will be hired. Then we tend to drop the ball and not honor candidates by sharing feedback with them that they are no longer a candidate and the reason for it.
Our firm makes every effort to insure that this loop is closed with the candidate. It is good business. Candidates that may not be a good fit for one position, may be a great fit for the next one you are attempting to fill. A trusting relationship that you have earned will help you place them into the next opportunity.
Constructive, timely and candid feedback is appreciated by candidates. As one candidate told me, “I would rather know quickly that I am not a fit so I can concentrate on other job opportunities. Also, if I can pick up a reason or two why I was not a good fit, it will help me get better with the next job interview.”
The Golden Rule applies here. How would you like to be treated in an interviewing process if you were the candidate and happened to be unsuccessful in obtaining the job?
