How simple is texting a potential applicant?
As technology changes so will the many different forms of communication you can offer potential applicants. Have you ever given any thought to communicating through text messages with your applicant? AS strange as it may sounds, texting will get you in contact with you applicant 100 times faster than traditional phone calls or emails. If this is new to you, you're probably wondering what are some best practices to implementing texting into your process? By following a few simple steps, you'll be able to uphold your company brand, maintain your professionalism, and take part in prompt, effective communication!
Step One: Clearly introduce yourself right off the bat.
Starting a text by stating not only your name, but your role, and the company you work for help builds your credibility, but also gets your foot in the door with the job seeker. No one wants to answer text messages, from a stranger, so having a solid introduction will increase your response rate.
Example: Hi, Betty, this is Joan in HR from ABC Company.
Step 2: Keep your message short and sweet.
Remember, a text is brief and meant to be read and responded to quickly. While you want to be clear in your messaging, there is no need to go into overwhelming details like you would in an email.
Example: I've reviewed your resume and would love to chat with you about the XYZ position. Are you available for a phone call Monday at 3 PM?
Step Three: Don't be afraid to stay in touch!
Text messages open up the lines for two-way communication between you and the applicant. A text can be the perfect platform to remind an applicant of an upcoming meeting, or answer a resume question you may have. Keep texts open ended by allowing room for the applicant to ask you questions, change the venue for an interview, or even thank you for the opportunity. A text message is always a great way to send a follow up message after an interview!
Example: I just wanted to confirm our phone call at 3 PM today. Does this time still work for you? OR Thanks for your time yesterday, Betty. If you have any other questions we didn't cover, don't hesitate to ask.
Step Four: Don't assume all of your applicants prefer text messaging over email interaction.
Have them select a preferred method of contact on their initial application so you know whether a call, email, or text is most appropriate.
Now that you know what you do want to do when texting applicants, let's go over what you want to avoid.
- Don't send text messages from your personal cell phone! Text your applicants directly within ApplicantPro keeps everything in one place and most importantly protects your privacy. There is no need to ever use your personal phone number to contact applicants.
- Don't use abbreviations or slang! While it is true that texting is a more relaxed form of communication, you're still a professional and a direct representative of your company and we know how important it is to uphold your brand.
By following these helpful best practices, you will be able to seamlessly incorporate text messaging into your hiring process and speed up time-to-hire immensely! For more information on how to use text communication with your applicants, reach out to a member of ApplicantPro's team today!
