2025: How to find employees now (2/3)

How do you gather information about a product before buying it online? You read the product description and customer reviews, compare prices with those of other online shops, and then place your order. Shortly afterwards, you receive an order confirmation email. That's what you would expect today, don't you agree? The same applies to the 'candidate journey'. The 'customer journey' in online shopping should NOT differ from the 'candidate journey' in the application process. For comparison:

The career page (with testimonials, career paths, explanations of the application process, etc.) is like the product information page.

• The confirmation of receipt corresponds to the purchase confirmation.
• Status updates correspond to delivery status updates.
• The application confirmation corresponds to the purchase confirmation.

Status updates may be a slight exaggeration, but it goes without saying that the aim is not to keep applicants waiting, but rather to gain their trust through clear communication and information.

It is particularly convincing if you now simplify the next steps of the application process. Make it easy for applicants by providing a chat function for questions, smart automation for automatic confirmation of receipt and bookable calendars to arrange interview appointments quickly and efficiently. However, don't relax just yet, because your response time is crucial.

Show what you have to offer as an employer, but please be authentic (don't fake it till you make it)! Think about the candidate journey and how you can influence it during the selection phase. After all, 'selecting' is now a two-way process. Clearly, companies today have to compete for talent just as much as the other way around. Why stick to a rigid job interview when you'll be on first-name terms and have a relaxed working relationship afterwards? The interview gives you the opportunity to determine whether your values and cultural aspects are compatible.

>Our recommendation: Be honest, communicate transparently and make decisions quickly.

Many companies have not yet recognised that applicants must be treated like customers, with respect, transparency, and a smooth process. Those who make a good impression from the outset with a clear, authentic approach, and then offer a simple, transparent and speedy candidate journey, create an experience that inspires and retains talent. The key to success is visibility in the right places and an application process that is as intuitive and easy to understand just like booking a hotel online. This leads not only to faster perfect matches, but also to a sustainable employer image.