What is Candidate Engagement?
Candidate engagement is the interaction and communication a candidate receives during the hiring process. Candidate engagement also includes the candidate’s experience throughout the entire hiring process.
Communication can be done by using tools such as emails, text messages, or face-to-face. The goal of candidate engagement is to develop a good relationship and meaningful connection with a candidate.
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Why is Candidate Engagement Important?
Candidate engagement enhances candidates’ commitment to the organization, interest in the job role, and satisfaction during the recruitment process.
Major benefits of candidate engagement include:
1. Increase Candidate’s Interest
Candidate engagement enhances the candidate’s interest in the organization and the job role.
2. Employer Branding
Candidate engagement also helps with the promotion of the employer brand. When candidates have a positive recruitment experience, they may share that with others in-person and also online. This will attract more candidates for the organization in the future.
3. Better Candidate Experience
Candidate engagement enhances the candidate experience by providing constant feedback and keeping them well-informed. A positive recruitment experience is necessary to manage a robust talent pipeline. Candidates with a positive experience are more likely to recommend a company to others. They may also refer other qualified candidates and reapply for future jobs if not get selected.
4. Reduce Dropout
When candidates are in constant communication with an organization, the candidate dropout rate reduces significantly. If candidates get timely feedback and quick replies, they feel more motivated to get selected and perform better during the hiring process.
5. Increased Employee Retention
New hires feel much better and happier when they start working as they have had a positive recruitment experience. Candidates feel valued and respected due to getting engaged from the beginning. Such candidates feel more aligned with the organization’s goals and values and are usually more satisfied with their jobs.
How Do You Engage a Candidate in an Interview?
Candidate engagement during an interview is necessary for the active participation of a candidate. It also results in a positive candidate experience.
Here are some ways to engage a candidate in an interview:
- Build a rapport right in the beginning by first greeting the candidate and introducing yourself. Create a friendly atmosphere by engaging in small talk to help them feel relaxed and comfortable.
- Active listening is another engagement strategy to show that you are genuinely interested in the candidate’s responses. Give verbal cues, nod, and maintain eye contact with the candidate to show your interest.
- Do not ask too many technical or close-ended questions. Ask some open-ended questions so candidates can share their experiences, perspectives, and thought processes. It results in a deeper and more meaningful conversation.
- Share details about the role, expectations, team, and organization to elevate the candidate’s interest. This helps them understand what the organization expects from them and how they must perform.
- Ask them if they have any questions regarding the job role or the organization. It helps them understand that you value their curiosity and that their input is welcomed in the organization.