You send out job ads, review CVs, schedule interviews—and wonder why candidates drop off, ghost, or seem disengaged.
What if I told you that candidates are thinking things about your hiring process you’d never hear—unless you asked?
Most won’t say it out loud, but these unspoken truths can make or break your ability to attract and keep top talent.
🕵️♂️ Here’s What Candidates Are Really Thinking:
-
“This feels like a black hole.”
No updates. No feedback.
Candidates apply, then wait. And wait.
The silence makes them think:
“They don’t care. I’m not a priority.”
-
“Why is no one prepared?”
Interviews where the hiring manager can’t answer basic questions, or the same questions are asked twice, leave a bad impression.
“If they’re disorganised now, what will working here be like?”
-
“They don’t respect my time.”
Long application forms, endless assessments, multiple interviews without clear purpose—all a turnoff.
“I have other options. Why should I waste hours here?”
-
“They’re not honest with me.”
Vague job descriptions, hidden salary ranges, unclear expectations make candidates suspicious.
“Are they trying to hide something?”
-
“I’m just a number.”
Generic emails, copy-paste rejection messages, no personal connection.
“I’m not a human to them—just a CV in a database.”
-
“Why am I ghosted after a great interview?”
Nothing kills trust faster than silence after investing time and effort.
✅ How to Fix These (Without Huge Budgets)
- Be Transparent: Share timelines, salary, work location upfront.
- Communicate Regularly: Even if it’s a quick rejection, respond promptly.
- Prepare Your Interviewers: Train hiring managers on the role and process.
- Respect Their Time: Simplify applications and reduce unnecessary steps.
- Personalise Your Communication: Use candidate names, reference their experience.
- Close the Loop: Always follow up after interviews, even if it’s a no.
💡 Remember:
Candidate experience isn’t a “nice to have.”
It’s a competitive advantage—and a reflection of your company culture.
🚀 Need help fixing your candidate experience?
Our Candidate Engagement Service can take the weight off your shoulders, ensuring every candidate feels valued and informed.
📩 DM us or click here to learn more.
