My son recently completed his graduate job search, over 30 applications, and he heard back from almost none of them. Not even an acknowledgement that his application was received.
He’s found a role now and his confidence has completely returned. But watching those months of silence nearly break his spirit was hard.
Speaking to some of you, I know he is not alone and some of your children have had similar experiences.
Here is my ask
Please check what is actually happening in your recruitment processes.
Many of us assume that our companies are doing the basics of acknowledging every applicant and notifying unsuccessful candidates. We assume our systems are working properly.
But are they? Really?
For graduates and school leavers facing an already tough market, radio silence isn’t just poor practice its genuinely damaging. They are re left wondering if they did something wrong, if their application even arrived, if the will ever be good enough. They have no opportunity to learn, improve their C.V. or cover letters.
If You are a Senior Leader, Please:
• Ask your HR team what actually happens after someone clicks “submit”
• Check whether unsuccessful candidates are being notified
• Consider if your company name is being damaged by the experience you are creating
These seem like basics, but my son’s experience suggests they are not standard practice. And I suspect many of you would be surprised by what you find if you looked.
Thanks in advance.