Recruiting in a time of high unemployment can change the recruiting process. While you’re likely to fill your positions, recruiting can become more complicated. More job seekers mean more applications, more paperwork, and a more complex recruitment overall. Being prepared can help ensure that your next recruitment will go smoothly.
Here’s what you can expect during a time of high unemployment
Recruiting Can Take Longer
With high unemployment rates across the country and more people looking for jobs, postings that once generated 35 or 40 applications may suddenly generate 100 or 150 applications. This makes the recruiting process far more work-intensive.
More applications means more time spent sorting through applications, more time whittling down the applications to a few candidates, and often means more interview questions. You may have more choices, but that simply makes the process take longer. Plan to spend an extra two or three weeks recruiting under these conditions.
More Unqualified Candidates May Apply
While more people may apply for positions, a high percentage of those candidates may be unqualified for the job. During times of high unemployment, candidates apply for more jobs, because they know that they’re competing against more job applicants. Casting a wider net can lead to a faster job search process.
As a recruiter, this means that you’ll have to look at each candidate with a discerning eye. You cannot assume that each candidate is qualified for the position that they’re applying for. Check their qualifications one by one. Plan to disqualify candidates that do not meet your standards.
Don’t Lose Patience
Yes, the process will take longer, and will require more legwork from you. Just take heart in knowing that hard work will pay off, and the chances of a failed recruitment may be lower, with so many candidates available and interested in your job. To make the work easier during times of high unemployment, find someone at your company who can help with application sorting and review.
Trust, But Verify
You may have heard the term “trust but verify” before. While this saying is used in many settings and contexts, it’s never more meaningful than in the employee recruitment process. Verify work history by checking references, and verify other information through a criminal background check. For access to affordable and thorough criminal background check information, contact us today. Visit our blog for information about employment screening trends.
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