Closing the loop
Question: How adept are your recruiters at delivering the news to candidates when the organization decides to go in another direction? I once had a recruiter who didn’t want his name on any rejection notices! I firmly believe recruiters shouldn't be allowed to hide behind a curtain. Rather, sharing rejection news with candidates is a vital part of a recruiter's role. Here are my tips:
1 - Format the rejection so it's proportional to the time the candidate invested with you. If they applied electronically and had no further interaction, an email is fine. But, IF they interviewed in person or online, a more personal call is appropriate.]
2 - Be as specific as possible. Candidates are genuinely trying to learn where they fell short. For example, instead of “does not meet basic qualifications," try:
"Did not meet basic education requirements. This role requires X degree, and you show only Y education on your application.”
"Did not meet basic experience requirements. This role requires X years of experience, and you only show Y years on your application.”
"Did not meet basic license or certification requirements. This role requires X license/certification, and we did not see those on your application."
You might be surprised at how many candidates come back and say they meet the requirement – and either left it off or had problems with your online application. Then, you're able to put them right back in the pool!
3 - Try to point rejected candidates to other roles – or ask them if you can consider them for future opportunities. A couple of examples:
A “not this but that” type of disqualification email gives your recruiters an easy way to say, "This role isn’t best for you, but I know what might fit; take a look at these types of roles."
"I really enjoyed learning more about you and your qualifications. Please let me keep my eye out and let you know if I find something that’s a better fit."
A recruiter's goal should be to make sure every candidate would consider working for the organization in the future – and refer friends regardless of the outcome of their application. Kindly closing the loop with as much detail as possible helps make that goal a reality.