As Human Resource pros, we receive and respond to a lot of emails: we open, scan, type and hit send. One email that I received last week continues to linger on my mind. It was from a job seeker who wrote, “I really appreciate your wishes. After almost one year ‘hunting for job,’ this was the first optimistic message I have received.”

This made me smile, yet also saddened me.

DON’T FORGET THE ‘HUMAN’ IN HUMAN RESOURCES

On the other end of that email, job application, resume is a real, live person with real life issues, concerns, worries and needs.  Often times a recruiter will focus their positive energies on candidates that are a good fit for the company, while brushing off people who aren’t a fit.

I would challenge you to view each candidate interaction as an opportunity to build a relationship and leave a positive impression. A small note at the end of an email could mean the world of difference to the recipient. And, what’s in it for you? Your action leaves an overall good impression of you and the organization that you represent.

Being positive is a win-win for everyone.

YOU KNOW WHAT THEY SAY ABOUT KARMA

Several months ago, a high level candidate reached out to me via LinkedIn. At the time, it did not seem like there were any possible matches for his skill set at my company. We stayed in touch. I even reviewed his resume and provided some feedback. Months passed before something promising became available and I reached back out to him. Had my conversations with him early on been hasty or negative, I firmly believe that he wouldn’t have been interested when I came-a-calling.

Recruiting isn’t about tearing down bridges, it’s about building them.

HR PROFESSIONALS IMPACT LIVES

As recruiters or a human resources professional otherwise involved in the hiring process, we touch lives. What are you doing to ensure positive candidate experiences?

Do you even realize how important your role is?