Why Most Companies Suck at Hiring (And How Not to Be One of Them)

Hiring isn’t just about throwing money and fancy office perks at the problem. It’s about not screwing up the journey from “We’re hiring” to “Welcome aboard.” Get this right, and you’re not just filling a seat; you’re boosting the long-term success of your business.

Hiring: It’s Not Rocket Science, It’s Harder

From the moment someone spots your job ad to the day they start, you’re under the microscope. Every step, from applying to interviewing, is a chance to impress or totally bomb it.

First Impressions: Don’t Be a Black Hole

CareerBuilder says 68% of candidates judge your respect for them by your hiring process. A complicated application or a resume abyss? That’s you telling top talent you couldn’t care less.

Keep Them in the Loop

Ever ghosted after a date? Feels bad, right? Do that after an interview, and 62% of candidates will walk. Clear updates show you’re serious about them.

Interviews Are A Two-Way Street

An interview isn’t just you judging them; they’re sizing you up too. A messy process screams “We don’t have our act together.” Make it a conversation, not an interrogation.

Feedback: Don’t Be a Jerk

Indeed says more than half the candidates want feedback post-interview. Skipping this? You’re not just rude; you’re missing out on building a relationship with someone who might be your future star.

Don’t Drop the Ball at the Goal Line

They said “yes” to your offer. Now’s your chance to reinforce they made the right call. A smooth start can turn a new hire into a long-term player.

Why It Matters: Because Reputation Is Everything

A solid employer brand can cut hiring costs and get better hires. Think about it: Your hiring process is a sneak peek of your company culture. Mess it up, and not only do you lose candidates, but you might also scare off future customers.

How to Not Screw It Up

  • Simplify Applying: Don’t make them jump through hoops to apply.
  • Communicate: Keep them updated. Silence is deadly.
  • Rethink Interviews: It’s a chat, not an interrogation. Respect their time and insights.
  • Give Feedback: It shows you value their effort, even if they’re not the right fit.
  • Ace Onboarding: First impressions count. Make their start as smooth as possible.

Bottom Line

Your hiring process is more than a means to an end. It’s the front line of your brand. Do it right, and you’ll not just fill jobs; you’ll build a rep for being the place to work. Do it wrong, and you’re just another company candidates and customers avoid. Time to get your act together.