Over the last 18-24 months, communication during the recruitment process has become more important then ever. In this blog I thought I would dig into the topic from a recruitment perspective. It touches on how you should communicate at each stage of the recruitment process. Of Course, you will have to adjust each style depending on the interviewer.
Firstly, why is communication so important to recruiters in today’s interview? There was a point, if we were hiring a Software Engineer for example, technical credentials more often than not were more important. As we evolve the world place, communication is as important if not more important today.
I have broken each Recruitment stag down into stages.
Stage 1: The Application – First Impressions and Flawless Pitches
Communication Style: Polite and Enthusiastic
Picture this: You’re browsing job listings, armed with your freshly updated resume and a cup of strong coffee. Suddenly, you stumble upon your dream job. The heavens part, a choir of angels sings (or maybe that’s just your excitement), and you click “Apply Now.”
In your application, aim to be as polite and enthusiastic as a golden retriever at a dog park. Introduce yourself with a friendly tone, express your passion for the role, and highlight your key achievements. Think of it as a dating profile – you want to show off your best self without coming across as too eager. After all, nobody likes a desperate dater or job applicant.
Stage 2: The Screening Call – Turning First Dates into Second Dates
Communication Style: Professional and Friendly
Congratulations! Your application was a hit, and now the recruiter wants to chat. This is your chance to make a memorable first impression – over the phone. Keep your communication professional yet friendly, like you’re chatting with a new colleague over coffee (the virtual kind).
Answer questions succinctly, but don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. Remember to listen actively and ask insightful questions about the role and company culture. This isn’t just about them liking you; it’s also about you liking them. And hey, don’t forget to smile – they might not see it, but they can definitely hear it.
Stage 3: The Interview(s) – Showcasing Your Skills Without Sounding Like a Robot
Communication Style: Confident and Engaging
Ah, the interview stage. It’s like the job market’s equivalent of a talent show, and you’re the star contestant. Whether it’s a technical interview or a more general one, your goal is to be confident and engaging without sounding like you’re reading off a script.
Start with a firm (but not bone-crushing) handshake if it’s in person, or a warm greeting if it’s virtual. Maintain good eye contact, and don’t forget to breathe. When answering questions, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses, and weave in anecdotes that highlight your skills and experience.
And a pro tip: don’t be afraid to throw in a light joke or two if the situation feels right. It shows you’re human, and everyone loves a candidate who can break the tension with a well-placed quip.
Stage 4: The Offer – Negotiation Without the Awkwardness
Communication Style: Appreciative and Assertive
You did it! They want you. Now comes the delicate dance of negotiation. Approach this stage with an appreciative and assertive communication style. Start by expressing genuine gratitude for the offer – a little appreciation goes a long way.
When discussing the details, be clear and assertive about your expectations. Whether it’s salary, benefits, or work-from-home flexibility, present your requests confidently. Remember, they’ve chosen you because they see your value, so don’t be afraid to ask for what you deserve. Think of it as negotiating for the last slice of pizza – you’ve earned it, and you’re not backing down (within reason).
Stage 5: The Onboarding – Settling In Without Stumbling
Communication Style: Inquisitive and Collaborative
You’ve accepted the offer, and now you’re on the onboarding rollercoaster. During this stage, your communication should be inquisitive and collaborative. Ask questions, lots of them. This shows your eagerness to learn and get up to speed.
Introduce yourself to your new colleagues with a friendly tone, and don’t shy away from small talk. Building rapport early on can make a big difference. Remember, onboarding is like the first day of school – everyone expects you to be a bit clueless, so don’t stress.
Conclusion: Mastering the Candidate Journey
Navigating the recruitment cycle can feel like running a marathon while juggling flaming torches, but with the right communication style at each stage, you can make it a smooth and (dare we say) enjoyable journey. Be polite and enthusiastic during your application, professional and friendly in your screening call, confident and engaging in your interviews, appreciative and assertive when negotiating, and inquisitive and collaborative during onboarding.
So go forth, job seeker extraordinaire, and conquer the recruitment cycle with the perfect blend of charm, wit, and professionalism. Your dream job awaits, and you’ve got the communication skills to make it yours
Some other blogs that you might enjoy include:
https://elwoodroberts.com/2024/04/12/top-tips-for-a-competency-based-interview/
https://elwoodroberts.com/2024/03/19/wage-inflation-in-ireland/
Elwood Roberts is a HR and Recruitment Consultancy with over 17 years of industry experience. If you would like to discuss your career please do give get in touch here via email or Whatsapp.