#Candidate September 29

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I recently received a phone call from an excited graduate of UNC Pembroke who went from being a CANDIDATE to being accepted to professional school. Her experience as a CANDIDATE was fabulous and listening to her describe the attention to detail she experienced I know why she was excited.

Some businesses, universities, and government agencies understand that every CANDIDATE you interview is a walking advertisement for your organization.

When I was a college basketball coach when it came to recruiting I wanted ever prospect I encountered to want to come to my university. To do that you need to have a system that includes some of the following:

• Treat CANDIDATES like you would want to be treated-that includes building trust by doing what you say you will do. I think most of us can relate to the line and interviewer has given us “We will be back in touch with you” never to hear from that person again.
•  If you are not going to hire them don’t leave them hanging tell them when you know.
• When a CANDIDATE comes for an interview-provide them in advance a detailed itinerary-if possible have someone meet them at the front door or in the parking lot.
• Don’t wait to respond -a CANDIDATE is excited when they apply or inquire-get back to them quickly.
• Have a timeline and stick to it-build trust by doing what you say you will do.
• If you’ve spoken to the CANDIDATE over the phone during the hiring process, it’s only polite to pick it up one last time to let them know he/she is not the most qualified person for the job.
• Candidates do talk, so don’t ever believe on how you treat them this is unimportant as a potential employer because it is.