The Importance of Effective and Timely Feedback in the Interviewing Process

The Value of Interview Feedback

We all know that the interview process must be seen as more than just a transactional series of questions and answers. It should be an opportunity for both sides to understand more about each other, leading to more informed decision-making. However, one of the most important, and often overlooked elements, is effective and timely feedback. 

For Candidates:

Clarity and Growth: Constructive feedback can help candidates understand their strengths and areas for development. It provides an understanding of what went well, or not so well, and therefore, can be improved for next time.

Boosting Confidence: Who doesn’t love receiving positive feedback? For a candidate, it will help reinforce their confidence in their skills, and encourage them to continue pursuing their career goals.

Closure: Timely feedback provides closure. It is better to be told you are not moving forward than to hear nothing. This allows a candidate to move forward with their job search without holding onto lingering doubts or uncertainties.

For Employers

Brand Reputation: In our culture of Ghosting, providing feedback reflects positively on a company's brand. It demonstrates a culture of transparency and respect for your candidates' time and effort.

Improved Hiring Process: Do not forget to ask for feedback from your candidates, as it offers valuable insights into your interview process. You can then refine and improve it for future candidates.

Stronger Relationships: Providing candidate feedback helps reinforce the relationship your recruiters will be building with their network. Remember, a candidate may not be right for this role, but they may be perfect for a future opportunity, and you want them to stay engaged.

Providing Feedback The Right Way

Be Specific: Where possible, offer detailed insights rather than generic comments. Specific feedback holds greater value, as it is more likely to contain elements that are actionable. 

Be Timely: Providing feedback fast, ensures it is relevant and useful. Interviewers should be providing feedback to recruiters within 24 hours, and recruiters should be talking with the candidate within a further 24 hours, even if the candidate is in a holding pattern. 

Be Constructive: It is important to provide feedback on both strengths, and areas for development. Offering suggestions for growth, or realignment, will nearly always be appreciated.

In conclusion, effective and timely feedback is critical. It provides the opportunity for a win-win for both candidate and employer. In addition, it ensures a more positive interviewing experience that will positively impact your brand, improve your Glassdoor ratings, and help candidates be their best. Let's make feedback a priority in our hiring processes!