What is it?
Candidate care refers to the strategies and practises an organisation uses to provide a positive experience for job applicants throughout the recruitment process. It involves clear communication, timely updates, respectful interactions, and ensuring that candidates feel valued, whether they are hired or not. Candidate care encompasses all touch points during the hiring process, including the job application, interviews, feedback, and follow-up, ensuring candidates are treated fairly and professionally.
Why is it important?
- Employer Branding: A positive candidate experience enhances the company’s employer brand. Candidates who feel respected and well-treated, even if they aren’t hired, are more likely to recommend the company to others or apply for future opportunities.
- Attracting Top Talent: Strong candidate care can set a company apart from its competitors, making it easier to attract top talent. Candidates often judge a company by how they are treated during the hiring process.
- Retention: Candidates who experience good care during the recruitment process are more likely to feel engaged and excited about joining the company, leading to higher retention rates once they are hired.
- Reduction in Candidate Drop-Off Rates: Poor candidate care can lead to high drop-off rates, where candidates withdraw from the process or reject offers. Proper candidate care can reduce this by ensuring candidates remain interested and engaged throughout the process.
- Long-Term Relationships: Even if a candidate isn’t hired, treating them well leaves the door open for future opportunities and helps build a talent pipeline for the organisation.
