Providing interview feedback for unsuccessful candidates is undoubtedly time-consuming as well as difficult to navigate, of course relaying positive feedback is easier than negative.

However, in my experience speaking to numerous candidates, feedback holds immense importance especially when it comes to improvement (I think most of us can recognise this). However, the minimal amount of employers who I see give no explanation or feedback to unsuccessful candidates is surprising.

I point back to the time-consuming nature of providing feedback, particularly if the hiring process is lengthy, but the negative perception of your company due to the failure to do so won’t be worth it in the long run.

The fact is that as well as being crucial for candidates to move forward with future processes, interview feedback can have just as many benefits for employers.

What are the benefits interview feedback presents?

As well as a better quality of hire and positive brand reputation, there are various additional benefits feedback can present for both candidate and client. These include:

Re-evaluate hiring methods

Taking the time to give feedback assists interviewers going forward, allowing them to reflect on their evaluation methods and refine their interviewing techniques means that they can conduct more effective interviews in the future.

Brand image

It is also crucial for brand image, as feedback (even if negative) as it demonstrates respect for the candidate's time and effort (we all know how lengthy these processes can be). Overall, positive candidate experiences can contribute to a company's employer brand and attract top talent in the future.

Quality of hire

Just as feedback from a candidate to a hiring manager can improve the overall hiring process for a business, constructive feedback to a candidate can improve the overall hiring process. The reason for that is because a candidate can take on the feedback and use it to be better prepared or well-equipped for a position or to tackle an interview; subsequently improving the quality of hire.

Demonstrates respect

Candidates respect when employers take the time to provide feedback, simply because it shows their efforts were valued. From my experience, this usually leaves a positive impression on the company, even if they are not hired.

I continuously stress the importance of feedback for both clients and candidates in the hiring process.  In an increasingly competitive and crowded candidate pool, it can be challenging to provide every candidate with focused feedback, and for candidates, trying to obtain feedback and building relationships will ensure long-term success for both sides.

By Darcy Willis, Recruitment Consultant

If you enjoyed this blog, read How to ask for interview feedback