What is candidate resentment – and why does it matter?

Candidate resentment is the extent to which negative candidate experiences affect how people feel about an organization, including their willingness to do business with, refer others, or apply for other opportunities with the organization. To prevent candidate resentment, organizations need to actively review and enhance their candidate experience.  For better or worse, these experiences have a direct impact on the bottom line with the potential to affect sales, referrals, reviews, overall reputation and reputation among job seekers.

It’s estimated that people who have a good experience tell six other people about it. Those with bad experiences tell up to 15 people!  Use the following tips to ensure that your candidates leave with a positive experience no matter the outcome of their application.

Tip 1: Be transparent, honest and keep them informed. Give candidates timelines they can count on, feedback on why you’re not moving forward as soon as possible, and transparent information on compensation and benefits. Most importantly, provide them with updates throughout the process.

Tip 2: Give them real feedback – and offer suggestions. Instead of the form letter that says, We found others who better meet our qualifications, share some specifics. For example, is the decision related to their education, experience, or some other factor? Let them know and offer suggestions on how they can get the needed education or experience.  If it just isn’t the right job, but you have ideas about positions that may be a better fit, provide a link to apply for those jobs. Most of all, be honest, kind and transparent.  

Tip 3: Tell them the result – as soon as you know it. Most candidates are okay with a no. They just want an answer. The horror stories of candidates hearing months – or even years – after submitting an application go viral. Keep your organization off the list of those who don’t respond in a timely manner by communicating your decisions as soon as they’re made.

Looking for ways to evaluate your candidate experience?  Participate in the CandE’s survey and research and read The Talent Board’s latest Candidate Experience report or contact me for more ideas.