If you’re a startup, your interview process plays an outsized role in the stability and growth of your company. There’s a lot more going on than just hiring somebody to fill a vacant role.
It goes without saying that your process needs to enable you to hire the right candidate for the right job. The wrong fit is going to cost time, effort, and money. Employee turnover kills momentum. The process of rehiring and retraining is spinning your wheels in a race that’s already running at a breakneck pace.
But in addition to the obvious, the recruiter is also acting as a brand ambassador. Candidates will develop an opinion about your business, based on their experience. And they’ll definitely get the word out if it’s less-than-stellar. It’s critical that they leave the interview with a good impression.
Is your interview process accomplishing this? You’re not going to know if you don’t ask. It’s the perfect place to ask for feedback. Surveys can help you do this.
How to incorporate Surveys
It’s important to seek feedback from all of your candidates.
For the applicants that didn’t receive a job offer, you’re communicating that you care about them. Their opinions are valuable. It’s also a way to broaden your network: they may return for a future opening or refer a friend if they have a favorable experience with your company.
For new team members, you’re modeling inclusivity right out of the gate. Their perspectives influence decisions in your company. They’re a valuable contributor. This sets the stage for how relationships work in your business.
Why Surveys?
1. They can tell you whether your process is working, to find the right fit for the job.
- Was the interviewer prepared?
- Was the process communicated clearly? Was it efficient? Is the job description clear?
- Did the applicant feel respected and comfortable during the process?
2. They give insight into how the candidate perceives your company culture.
3. They offer coaching opportunities for your team members involved in the process.
Facts are your friend! Take the feedback seriously. When someone takes the time to respond, address all of their questions and complaints. Let them know how their suggestions were implemented. Their feedback made a difference!
Surveys are a way of measuring success over time. You can use the information to:
- modify your interview strategy,
- increase the acceptance rate on your offers,
- strengthen your relationships and networks, and
- grow a positive brand identity and reputation.
Your company grows stronger as you listen to and incorporate the insights of others. People own the direction that you set because they recognize how their opinions factor into decisions.
Ownership breeds commitment!
