Employers are facing increasing scrutiny over their hiring practices, with growing numbers of job seekers publicly airing grievances about poorly conducted interviews and recruitment processes. Platforms like Glassdoor and Indeed have become hubs for candid feedback, resembling Yelp reviews, where candidates share detailed accounts and numerical ratings of their hiring experiences.
Neil Costa, CEO of HireClix, notes that negative trends in these reviews can significantly impact an employer’s reputation, likening it to a difficult grade to recover from over time.
Common complaints include ghosting, where candidates are abruptly cut off from communication after initial interviews, and “love bombing,” where excessive praise during interviews is followed by disappointing job offers. Compounding these issues are confusing career pages and lengthy assignments, all of which frustrate prospective employees.
Previously, disgruntled ex-employees used platforms like Glassdoor to critique overall workplace environments, serving as cautionary tales for potential applicants. Now, attention has shifted to the interview process itself, with critical reviews potentially dissuading candidates before they even apply.
This negative feedback not only damages employer brands but also diminishes the pool of qualified applicants, reducing the chances of finding the right fit for open positions, according to recruitment experts.
These negative experiences erode trust and drive candidates to seek opportunities elsewhere, potentially even with competitors. However, HR leaders have avenues to mitigate these issues and uphold a positive employer reputation. Strategies include transparent communication throughout the hiring process, ensuring alignment between job offers and candidate expectations, and improving the user experience of career portals.
By addressing these concerns proactively, employers can bolster their employment brand, attract top talent, and foster a more positive perception among job seekers, ultimately enhancing their chances of making successful hires.