Understanding the Candidate Journey
The candidate journey is a crucial aspect of the recruitment process that begins even before job seekers start applying. Understanding this journey can significantly improve the candidate experience, reduce hiring costs, and strengthen your employer brand. In this guide, we'll delve into the various stages of the candidate journey and provide a step-by-step guide on how to map these touchpoints effectively.
What Are Candidate Journey Touchpoints?
The candidate journey touchpoints are categorised into six stages, divided into two main phases: the pre-application phase and the application phase.
Pre-Application Phase
1. Awareness
The first touchpoint in the candidate journey is awareness. This is where potential candidates learn about your company, its culture, and job opportunities. Various channels, both online and offline, can be used to raise awareness.
2. Consideration
At this stage, candidates may engage further with your company. It's crucial to note that the candidate journey is not always linear; candidates may circle back to the awareness stage before moving forward.
3. Interest
This is the final stage of the pre-application phase. Candidates at this stage are highly interested in your organisation and are likely to apply unless deterred by external factors, such as receiving another job offer.
Application Phase
4. Application
The application phase begins when candidates submit their application forms. Your interactions during this stage can significantly influence their perception of your company.
5. Selection
After the interview process, the selection stage begins. It's essential to maintain communication with candidates to enhance their experience, even if you don't have updates for them.
6. Hiring
This is the final stage where candidates are either hired or informed of their rejection. Transparency is key to improving the candidate journey at this stage.
How to Create a Candidate Journey Map
Mapping the candidate journey is essential for understanding the experience from the candidate's perspective. Here are three steps to create an effective candidate journey map:
1. Create a Candidate Persona
Understanding your ideal candidate is the first step in mapping the candidate journey. Creating a candidate persona can help you tailor the journey to meet the needs and expectations of your target applicants.
2. Build a Framework
Use the stages and phases mentioned above as the framework for your candidate journey map. This will help you identify the needs and motivations of candidates at each stage.
3. Implement Touchpoints
Identify all possible touchpoints candidates might experience, especially during the pre-application stage. Knowing where and how to engage with candidates can make your recruitment process more effective.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why Does the Candidate Journey Matter?
Understanding the candidate journey is vital for building a strong employer brand and improving the overall candidate experience.
2. What Are the Benefits of Candidate Journey Mapping?
Mapping the candidate journey can help improve the candidate experience, streamline the hiring process, and reduce recruitment costs.
3. How Does the Candidate Journey Differ from Candidate Experience?
While the candidate journey outlines the various stages a candidate goes through, the candidate experience focuses on the emotions and perceptions formed during the application process.
Closing Thoughts
Understanding the candidate journey is more critical than ever in today's competitive job market. Whether you're a recruiter or a hiring manager, mapping the candidate journey can provide valuable insights into improving your recruitment process.