In today’s economy, the competition for hourly work is fierce. With so many people vying for a limited number of positions, it’s more important than ever to stand out from the pack. And one of the best ways to do that is by connecting with the applicants.
Many companies view the application process as nothing more than a necessary evil and see it as a way to screen applicants and weed out those who don’t meet their minimum requirements. But if you take that approach, you’re missing a golden opportunity. The applicant screening process is your chance to impress potential employees and show them what it would be like to work for your company.
And to do that, you need to create conversation instead of just capturing information. Too often, companies rely on automated systems that ask scripted questions and capture data without regard for the applicant’s experience or feelings. That’s not how you create a connection with someone. You need to engage with them on a personal level and make them feel valued. Only then will they be willing to open up and share their true strengths and weaknesses with you.
The importance of creating a connection with applicants
Creating a connection with your applicants is one of the most important things you can do as a hiring manager. It helps you better understand their qualifications and shows them what it would be like to work for your company. And if you can make a good impression, they’re more likely to accept your job offer if it’s extended to them.
There are a few things you can do to create a connection with your applicants. The first is to review their resume and ask them about their experience, and this helps you get a better idea of their skills and qualifications. You can also use this opportunity to discuss the company and its culture, and this will give the applicant a better idea of what it would be like to work for you.
Another way to connect with your applicants is to provide feedback throughout the process. If they take the time to interview you, let them know how they did. And if they’re not selected for the position, let them know why they weren’t chosen. This feedback can help them improve their chances of future hiring.
Common hiring pitfalls
One of the most common hiring pitfalls is failing to engage with applicants. Many hiring managers simply don’t take the time to read through applications or respond to candidates. As a result, they may miss out on some great potential employees.
Another common hiring mistake is relying too heavily on resumes. Resumes are a valuable tool, but they don’t tell the whole story. Hiring managers need to take the time to speak with candidates and get to know them better. This will help them determine whether or not the candidate is a good fit for the job.
Finally, it’s important to remember that the hiring process takes time. Don’t rush into making a decision. Take your time and make sure you hire the right person for the job.
Embrace new strategies to gain an edge in a competitive labor market
In order to embrace the competitive labor market, you must go above and beyond to engage with your applicants. Here are some tips for doing just that:
1. Make sure you’re available to answer questions.
One of the best ways to show applicants that you’re interested in them is by being available to answer their questions. If they have any concerns or doubts about the job, you want to be able to address them as quickly as possible. Being available and responsive will show them that you’re invested in them and their success.
2. Take the time to review their applications.
Another great way to show applicants that you’re interested in them is by reviewing their applications. If you can find the time to read through their resumes and cover letters, it will send a clear message that you’re serious about hiring the best possible candidate. It also allows you to see if they meet your minimum requirements.
3. Stay in touch after the interview.
Once an applicant has interviewed with your company, don’t just forget about them. Stay in touch and let them know what the next steps are in the process. This will keep them engaged and interested in your company and show them that you’re serious about making a decision soon.
Closing thoughts
In today’s highly competitive labor market, creating a connection with the applicants you are screening is more important than ever. Creating a conversation can increase accuracy and engagement, improving the overall experience for everyone involved. Chattr’s conversational AI provides an easy way to do just that, making the process faster and easier for both the hiring manager and the applicant. Schedule a call with us today to learn more about how we can help you streamline your hiring process.
