The recruitment rollercoaster

Ensure a two-way communication process for a positive candidate experience.  Encourage open dialogue and active listening  with everyone involved in the interview process.

Two-way communication helps candidates to make informed decisions.  Create a welcoming atmosphere and personalise the experience to get the very best out of each candidate.

A good agency partner becomes a brand ambassador for your business.  Let us become familiar with your culture, goals and business objectives to allow us to attract talent that truly aligns to your organisation.

Invest the time and effort with your recruitment partner at the start of the process to set the foundation to build a strong partnership.

In a passive job market, where candidates are not actively seeking new opportunities, it is important to demonstrate you are serious about hiring.

Agree timescales for each stage of the  interview process...more importantly, stick to these timescales and show candidates you value their time.

The interview stage is not just an opportunity for candidates to impress.  Candidates have choices in the marketplace, set yourself apart from the competition.  Highlight the reasons why current employees enjoy working for the organisation and why they choose to stay.  Allowing candidates to meet the team also shows a real sense of transparency and authenticity to the hiring process.

Focus on hiring talent rather than specific industry experience, especially in an already tight market.  Consider candidates with transferable skills who can also bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to your team.

In rapidly changing industries, having candidates who can quickly adapt to new technologies, trends and challenges is crucial.

Provide clear updates after each stage of the process.  Give timely and structured feedback in relation to strengths and areas for improvement.

 Show appreciation for the time and effort the candidate has put in whether they are successful or not.

A positive candidate experience reflects positively on your brand.

Be familiar with every single detail on your CV.  Knowing your CV allows you to confidently discuss your qualifications, experiences and accomplishments with the interviewer.  

Tailor your CV to a specific role and highlight how your skills and experiences align with the job requirements. 

Be prepared to talk through any employment gaps in your CV.

Motivations are very personal and can evolve and change over time.

Can you identify any areas that can be improved in your current role before considering a move? 

Evaluate what you are looking for and assess if a company aligns with your expectations, priorities and needs.

Reflect on your current situation and research prospective employers before making decisions on next steps.

 Research the company to gain a clear understanding of their values, products/services and culture. This shows a genuine interest and helps tailor your responses at interview.  Identify any common connections between yourself and your interviewers including industry groups, memberships or common interests.  These can serve as a talking point and help you build rapport.

Gather as much information as you can.   Plan the logistics of getting to your interview so you arrive prepared and confident.  Ensure you are prepared for the format  - will it be formal or more on the informal side?  Are any additional activities planned such as tests, assessments or a tour of the facility?  Who will be involved in the interview process?  

These are all important facts to consider in advance.

Asking questions can provide valuable insights and help you to evaluate if the company aligns with your future career goals.

Remember, an interview is a two-way street - it's not only an opportunity for the company to assess you, but also for you to assess the company.

The interview process allows both parties to gather information, assess compatibility and make informed decisions through a collaborative process. 

Staying in touch with your recruitment partner is crucial for a successful partnership and increases your chances of finding the right opportunity.

Share any changes  in your circumstances that may affect your job search.  

Maintain open and honest communication, sharing both positive and negative experiences.

Build trust and allow your recruitment partner to understand your needs.