Businesses could be inadvertently alienating thousands of customers through poor recruitment practices, according to a survey by Monster.co.uk. Of those 5,300 jobseekers surveyed, a staggering 84 per cent said that the job application process often or sometimes negatively impacts their view of the company. Of those affected by poor recruitment, 82 per cent of respondents felt this way because they had not received a response to their application and 68 per cent because they had not received constructive feedback.
The so-called ‘CV black hole’ could be having very real consequences for UK PLC, with 63 per cent of those affected by bad recruitment practices stating that it would make them less likely to use the company’s products and services in future. More than two thirds (68 per cent) of those also said they would let friends and family know about their negative experiences, which also include poorly written job adverts (37 per cent), a lack of information about the company (34 per cent) and unfriendly or unhelpful staff (26 per cent). A fifth 20 per cent) said they would share their gripes through social media.
However, the findings aren’t all bad for employers with almost two thirds (62 per cent) of all respondents agreeing that they sometimes or often come away from a recruitment process with a more positive view of the brand. Following positive recruitment experiences, 65 per cent of those affected said they would tell friends and family about their experiences and 51 per cent would be more likely to use a company’s products or services.
Amongst those respondents affected positively by recruitment, jobseekers are most impressed by: a timely response to their application (68 per cent); receiving constructive feedback (56 per cent); the ability to apply online (56 per cent) and well written job adverts (54 per cent).
Sinead Bunting, Head of Marketing at Monster.co.uk comments, “It is worrying that so many employers still don’t realise the potential impact of a poor recruitment process on their brand. Job seekers are also consumers and by failing to respond, acknowledge or engage with them, employers could be losing out on valuable custom. Many companies are inundated with CVs but with the technology available today, it should be possible to ensure all applicants at least receive a friendly response.
“The ‘CV black hole’ has long been a challenge for job seekers, but it can be overcome. By taking simple measures such as including an attention-grabbing cover letter and producing a well-written, relevant and impressive CV, applicants can increase their chances of success. If possible, job seekers should also follow up with potential employers for feedback.”
Monster.co.uk has put together some tips for maximising CV success:
- Make contact before sending your CV- If there are contact details in the job advert then try to get in touch (by phone, not email) with the hiring manager, or at least someone who has a hand in the recruitment process. The best thing to do is to ask an intelligent question regarding a certain aspect of the role, rather than trying to sell yourself over the phone.
- Include a cover letter- This tactic allows you to say “Further to our earlier conversation…” within your cover letter so they are more likely to remember your application above an anonymous candidate. The letter doesn’t need to be long and shouldn’t simply repeat your CV. Instead, use it as a chance to demonstrate your knowledge and passion for the company and show a little of your personality.
- Follow up on all CVs you send - Regardless of whether you have made contact before applying, you should always look to call the employer (or recruitment agency) within three to five business days. When you call, clearly state your name and the position you’re applying for. Show your enthusiasm for the position and let them know you’re looking forward to hearing more about the opportunity.
- If at first you don’t succeed- Every company has its own procedure for hiring and whilst it may take a few days to select the interview shortlist in some organisations, it can take months in others (especially during the main holiday season). Being overly persistent won’t help your case. Take notice of any application deadlines and wait until at least that date before making your second contact.