More than ever, I am hearing top talent from various positions and industries express their discontent with lengthy interviews processes, poor recruiting etiquette and indecisive decision-making on behalf of companies. While we are still experiencing an employers market, the employer needs to regain focus and treat candidates with dignity and respect. Until that happens, taking control of managing your own brand and your employment satisfaction is the best gift you can give yourself.
Reportedly in recent studies that I have conducted from a cross-section of talent, candidates are going through as many as 8 and 9 interviews without any closure. Interestingly, this is happening in world-class coveted brands.
Privately owned companies seem to be gaining momentum in tapping into the lost art of candidate courting! One candidate reported dedicating as many as 35 hours interviewing for a position with a well known brand. This went on for 5 months. Ultimately, the company decided to go with an internal candidate. 35 hours is significant and nothing to sneeze at. Interesting enough, the candidate was NOT looking for employment and was approached by a recruiter. The bait and switch seems to be pervasive in recruiting today.
The company image is now tarnished due to the lack of respect in candidate treatment and the loss of candidate courting. If this happened with one candidate, surely it has happened with others.
I sarcastically suggested to the candidate that she call the company and ask for her hourly rate to be reimbursed. The longer we discussed the issue, the more we realized that companies are taking advantage of candidates. Perhaps it is time that companies get their ducks in a row and determine their needs before wasting time of interested talent.
The candidate was indeed frustrated at the time however, she was smart enough to have multiple irons in the fire. \If you or someone you know is currently experiencing a painful recruiting process, listed below are a few tips to put pressure on the company while you manage your job search.
Keep in mind, your time is valuable and you are your own commodity…act like one!
Top Tips ~ Questions That Speak Volumes
Make yourself marketable and valuable when interviewing. Consider stating the following to the recruiter or company point person:
- “Tell me the length and process that I can expect in speaking with xyz company.”
- “Who is ultimately responsible for the hiring decision?”
- “How will I be notified if I am selected or turned down for the position?”
- “How many individuals are competing for the positions?”
- “How many candidates are internal and external?”
Additionally…
Do your homework by conducting your research. Let the employer know what you know as this will show your degree of engagement and interest. Suggested research ideas include (but not limited):
- Linkedin.com
- Company web site
- Stock
- Former employees
- Current employees
- Google searches on employee satisfaction
- Excessive turnover or retention
- Current or previous law suits
- Company brand
- Culture
- Leadership
- Previous work history and turnover of leadership
Finally, when being asked to travel for an interview, be sure to ask about compensation of travel especially if traveling long distances by car. Recently, it has been reported that some companies are asking candidates to drive great distances for an interview instead of footing the bill for a flight. If this occurs, be sure to talk about mileage reimbursement, tolls, meals, etc. prior to going on the interview.
You are your own marketing agent…now get moving!
