After weeks of sifting through hundreds of job applications and conducting numerous interviews, you finally found your ideal candidate. But, unfortunately, the unexpected occurs just as you deliver the happy news: the candidate declines your offer. Many HR professionals resent a frustrating scenario; you lost your preferred candidate and are now back at square one, but you’ve also squandered a significant amount of time, energy, and resources.
Today’s job seekers, particularly top talent, have plenty of job options. So, employers must recognize that the economic climate is shifting in favor of job hunters, and those job seekers now have the advantage of being picky and, at times, demanding. So, what would you do to reduce your chances of being turned down by your favored candidate?
Begin by looking at some of the factors why applicants decline your job offers and what are the things you can do to avoid them:
The actual job is different from the expectation
Create a compelling, factual, and honest job posting. Employers must balance fancy words with an appropriate description of their applicant’s expectations. To accomplish this, those seeking a more simple system seek the assistance of a locum tenens agency to assist them in developing effective online recruitment; click here to explore more of this option.
Facilitating follow-up applications alongside comprehensive screening is a good process that guarantees you set specific expectations for candidates. Incorporating a brief screening video conference or a virtual skills test, for example, will give applicants a decent concept of what you’re looking for. In this manner, incoming candidates can inform you right away if they can complete or perform the work you require.
The job/work culture doesn’t feel right
Some employers overlook that it is not only them who interview candidates to determine if they are a good fit, but it is also the other way around. Candidates are also evaluating whether the job and work culture fit them well. Listen closely to the questions candidates ask during the interview, especially about the job or work culture. If the applicant refuses to accept your offer, the job isn’t what they’re looking for, and it could be a good thing that they realize they’re not the right fit sooner. However, if you have more candidates declining your proposal due to the work culture, it may be time to contemplate and assess what you can do to improve your organization.
You’re a little late
Remember that you aren’t the only company the applicant has interviewed with. Top talent in a competitive industry often receives more than one job offer. So, maintain open lines of communication with them once they have been shortlisted. Whether you have decided to recruit them or are waiting to receive final decisions from top management, keep in regular contact with them to keep them up to date on the latest developments and maintain their interest.
Final thoughts
Whatever the reason, being turned down by a candidate is not the end of the line. It would help if you handled the rejection tactfully and professionally, leaving a lasting positive impression for the applicant to remember your organization.
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