Why you need to communicate with all job applicants

Posted by: Alison Citti

As of December, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported the number of unemployed persons at 15.3 million. With so many people out of work, it’s no surprise that companies and HR departments are being overwhelmed with an influx of resumes and applications. Add to the equation understaffed departments already being stretched to the limits. What you’ll likely get is a pool of candidates feeling slighted or discouraged by unanswered applications and a lack of communication.

What I’m here to tell you today is that it’s imperative to respond to each and every candidate. Not just the ones you plan to bring in for an interview. The communication can be as simple as an automated e-mail message, “Thanks for your application. We’ll contact you if we have any positions that match your credentials.” Or a, “Thank, but no thanks,” message that is sent to unqualified candidates.

Failing to take this simple and courteous step could damage your employment brand and reputation. Getting a reputation as an uncommunicative or, worse, heartless employer could make it more difficult for you to attract talented candidates in the future.

What’s more, if people seeking employment at a retailer, for instance, don’t get an update on their application, they may decide not to shop at that company’s stores anymore. The same goes for food companies, restaurants, etc. Businesses have to do everything in its power to retain these applicants, their families, and friends as customers, especially in today’s economy.

If your HR and recruiting departments are shorthanded, and the number of applications you receive seems unmanageable, implement a process that touches all candidates. That makes the process as positive as possible. Your business depends on it.