The Importance of Employers Calling Candidates After Job Interviews

The Negative Impact of Lack of Communication

In today's competitive job market, the lack of communication from employers after job interviews has become a common issue. Many candidates are left in a state of uncertainty, not knowing whether they got the job or not. This lack of communication can have a negative impact on candidates, leading to discouragement and even giving up on job searching altogether.

The importance of employers calling candidates to inform them of their status after job interviews cannot be emphasized enough. A study conducted by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) suggests that employers should make it a priority to provide feedback and closure to candidates, regardless of the outcome. This simple act of communication shows respect and professionalism towards candidates who have invested their time and effort in the application process.

While some employers argue that they don't have the time to call every candidate, there are alternative approaches that can be taken. One experienced manager suggests sending a generic message to all candidates who were not selected. Although it may not provide personalized feedback, it at least gives candidates the closure they deserve.

On the other hand, there are managers who go the extra mile in terms of communication. With over 25 years of experience as a manager, one individual personally calls every candidate they interview, regardless of whether they were hired or not. This manager believes in providing constructive feedback and having a conversation with candidates about their interview performance. This level of communication not only shows respect but also helps candidates improve their future interview skills.

It is important to note that while some divisions within companies may have a policy of calling every candidate, this is not always the case across the board. The level of the interview and the number of candidates involved may determine whether a direct call or a generic email is more appropriate for informing candidates about their status. However, even a generic email sent to all unsuccessful candidates would be a polite gesture and greatly appreciated.

The waiting period after an interview, without any communication from the employer, is often described as the worst part of being unemployed. Candidates are left wondering about the outcome and questioning their own performance. Providing a simple update, even if it's a generic email, allows disappointed applicants to decide whether to seek further information or feedback.

While some hiring managers argue that calling every candidate is not worth the time and effort, it is important to consider the impact of this lack of communication. Some applicants may put minimal effort into their applications, making it even less appealing for hiring managers to call and explain their decision. However, it is crucial to remember that a lack of communication can be seen as impolite and disrespectful to candidates who have invested their time and energy in the application process.

Ultimately, candidates appreciate being informed about the outcome of their application, even if it's through a generic email. The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) acknowledges that this issue is not about the author specifically but is a generalization of many people's experiences. Therefore, it suggests that the practice of calling candidates to inform them of their status should be implemented universally, regardless of the circumstances.

the debate over whether employers should call candidates to inform them of their status after job interviews continues. While there are varying opinions from different employers, it is crucial to prioritize communication and provide closure to candidates. This simple act of calling or sending a generic email can make a significant difference in the job search experience for candidates and contribute to a more respectful and professional hiring process.