Don’t Have These Unreasonable Expectations

A recent study indicated that job candidates feel most hiring managers have unreasonable expectations. Are you a hiring manager that fits in this category? You probably answered no, however, when asked if they do any of the following, many changed their answer to yes.

Do you call candidates expected to conduct a phone interview immediately, on the spot? While this may be best for your schedule, it can cause havoc with the candidate’s schedule. This will often set a bad tone with the candidate. It is best to call and schedule a telephone interview. This will show the candidate that you value their time.
Do you give a skills test to your construction candidates, without telling them of it? Many hiring managers today are conducting skills test for their construction candidates, which is great to determine their skill level and skill set. The problem arises when you spring the test on the candidate with no notice. It is best to inform the candidate they will be tested ahead of time. Allow them to mentally prepare for the task.
Do you expect candidates to wait when you are running behind schedule? The number one complaint among construction candidates is waiting for their interview. You must stay on time, or reschedule. If you do not, this will show the candidate that you have little value of their time.
Do you tell candidates that you have several more people to interview and you will get back to them soon? Most likely you do, this is the common phrase used by hiring managers, and the one that job candidates hate the most. They would rather hear the truth, so they do not sit around waiting for you. Respect is shown when you tell them you will make a decision by Tuesday and they are in the top five, or they are just not a good fit.

When you are able to remove some of these unreasonable expectations, suddenly you will see a higher retention rate, and you will have more candidates to choose to from. Consider them!