Beyond the Transaction: How to Build Lasting Relationships with Candidates

In the world of talent acquisition, building and maintaining good relationships with candidates is essential. Whether you are a recruiter, hiring manager, or HR professional, it's important to recognize that the candidates you interact with are not just numbers or statistics, but individuals with unique skills, experiences, and aspirations.

 

By prioritizing relationship-building throughout the recruitment process, you not only create a positive experience for the candidate but also increase the likelihood of a successful hire. In fact, according to a survey by LinkedIn, 94% of candidates are more likely to consider applying for a job if the employer actively manages its employer brand, which includes how it interacts with candidates.

 

Building and maintaining good relationships with candidates however requires more than just a friendly demeanor or prompt communication. It involves developing a deep understanding of their needs, motivations, and values, and taking a personalized approach to every interaction.

 

What then, are the key elements of building and maintaining good relationships with candidates?

 

It's important to keep candidates updated throughout the entire hiring process, from initial contact to offer stage. Be transparent and honest with them about the status of their application and any feedback they may need. Respond to their emails and phone calls in a timely manner, and make sure you're available to answer any questions they may have.

 

Candidates are often busy with work and personal commitments, and would appreciate if you are respectful of their time. Don't waste their time with irrelevant job offers or lengthy interviews that could have been done in half the time. Make sure you're clear about the job requirements and expectations, and only contact them with relevant job opportunities.

 

Address them by their name, ask about their background and interests, and make an effort to remember details from previous conversations. This will help you build a rapport with them and make them feel more comfortable sharing information with you.

 

Feedback is an important part of the hiring process, and it's important to provide candidates with feedback throughout the process. This could be feedback on their resume, interview skills, or anything else that could help them improve their chances of getting hired. This feedback can also help build trust and respect between you and the candidate.

 

Just because a candidate isn't the right fit for a current job opening, doesn't mean they won't be a good fit for future opportunities. Keep in touch with candidates and let them know you're interested in working with them in the future. This could be as simple as sending them an email or connecting with them on LinkedIn. Keeping in touch with candidates will help you build a strong network of talent that you can tap into when new job opportunities arise.

 

As an employer, it's important to maintain a professional demeanor at all times. Be polite and respectful in your interactions with candidates, and avoid any behavior that could be perceived as unprofessional or inappropriate. This includes being mindful of your tone and language in emails and phone calls, and avoiding any comments or actions that could be considered discriminatory.

 

Candidates want to work with employers who can provide them with value beyond just job offers. Share industry insights, job market trends, and advice on how to improve their resume or interview skills. This will help build trust and respect between you and the candidate, and make them more likely to turn to you when they're looking for their next job opportunity.

 

Once you have hired a candidate, follow up with them to ensure that they are happy in their new role. This could be as simple as sending them an email or giving them a call to check in. It's important to build long-term relationships with candidates, and following up with them is a great way to do that.

 

Building and maintaining good relationships with candidates is an essential aspect of recruiting and hiring top talent for your organization. Remember that the recruiting process is not just about finding the right person for the job, but also about building long-term relationships with potential candidates who may be a good fit for future positions.