It's challenging to provide top-notch candidate experience when you are flooded with job applications, especially with the increase of AI bots. One rule of thumb is ensuring you provide a top-notch experience to those that are actually qualified. If you posted specific requirements and the candidate ignored them (or better yet, an AI bot applied on their behalf), then it would NOT make sense to put efforts into that application. BUT... If the candidate put the right effort into ensuring there is alignment, then that specific candidate deserves a great experience and giving the candidate a great experience will yield positive benefits with other professionals in the marketplace.

Yes, the main thing to do is set expectations with candidates at each stage of the process and use technology to support you with this. Here is what I feel is a minimum candidates should expect from you.1 1. Rejected at application stage: email letting them know this. 2. Rejected after screening: Phone call with reasons why you are not proceeding with application 3. Rejected at 1st of 2nd stage: Phone call with detailed feedback. Tips on how they can improve their application next time.

Yes, even with a flood of applications, you can provide a top-notch candidate experience by automating certain tasks while maintaining personalization. Use tools to acknowledge every application with a prompt, personalized message. For example: "Thank you for applying for the sales role. We’ll review your application and aim to provide feedback within two weeks." Set clear expectations about timelines, and send regular updates, even if it’s to inform candidates of delays. For high-potential candidates, offer personalized feedback or interview prep tips. Efficient automation paired with human touchpoints ensures candidates feel valued despite high application volumes.

A few initiatives that have always helped me have been crafting extremely clear job adverts, ensuring a simplified application process by having a very mobile-friendly and easy way to apply, being ready for onboarding and streamlining that process, and also automating as many things as possible without sacrificing the candidate experience!

Implement an ATS: Use an ATS to streamline the application process, automate communication, and track candidate progress. This ensures timely updates and feedback, helping candidates feel valued even in a high-volume environment. Personalized communication strategies: Develop templates for initial communications, but personalize follow-ups to acknowledge each candidate's unique qualifications. Regular updates about their application status demonstrate that you care about their experience. Feedback loops: Encourage candidates to provide feedback on their application experience. Use this input to continuously improve your processes. Sharing insights on how they can enhance their future applications can further enrich their experience