Lack of clarity, lengthy applications, redundant questions… which of these frustrates candidates the most when applying for roles? A few simple changes to your online application process can increase your chances of finding the right candidates.
ERE recently conducted a survey revealing the number of applicants who quit online applications has increased by 6% this year compared to last. Why is this the case?
Today, candidates can access a wealth of information online and with this, more ways to find out about organisations and apply for roles.
Stephen van Calker reporting for ERE explains, “They may start reading about you while sipping their morning coffee, then visit your career website on the way to the university, and fill in an application during lunch time. Multiple devices might be used during this process.
“As an employer, you want to make sure you’re reaching out to the right talent, as well as checking that your application process runs smoothly every step of the way. After all, more than half (56 percent) of the candidates who quit an online application did it because of poor functionality of the site.”
Research reveals the online application process can be one of the biggest sources of frustration for candidates.
Manage expectations
Lack of clarity around how long the application process will take is off-putting to candidates. Don’t keep them in the dark! Be transparent in sharing the way your organisation processes applications, or at least give them an idea of what to expect, and when (or if) they can expect a response.
Do not surprise candidates by suddenly requesting documents.
“Only you know what works best for your process, but make sure to prepare the applicant for a smooth candidate experience. What do you expect in a cover letter, how many references do you need, what additional documents should be prepared? And remember to tell the candidate before starting the application process!”
Keep it brief
Long applications can also be problematic. Consider whether some questions could be included later in the process, or if questions can be included in a single page instead of spread across several pages.
Make every question count
Unnecessary or duplicate questions creates frustration and confusion for candidates. Keep the process streamlined and efficient by not doubling up.
Surprisingly, technical difficulties during the application process ranked sixth on the list of frustrations in the study.
Problems such as these during the application process make a bad early impression and can be damaging to your employer brand in the long term.
Despite candidates using different application pathways, they expect a smooth process. So steer clear of these problems to avoid losing candidates.
Source
5 things driving online applicants the most crazy
Stephan van Calker
ERE