“Only Successful Applicants Will Be Contacted” – A brand killer in disguise.
Here’s how that one little sentence throws a grenade into your employer brand!
In today’s competitive job landscape, attracting top talent goes well beyond offering competitive salaries and benefits. Job seekers are looking for companies that demonstrate strong employer brands and positive cultures. Organisations that claim transparency, inclusivity, ethics and respect as core values and then include the statement “only successful applicants will be contacted,” are contradicting their values and sending conflicting messages to potential candidates.
Already from the outset, the hiring manager is saying they aren’t valuing everyone, therefore, creating a perception of exclusivity and potentially deterring applicants. This one sentence has totally undermined the company’s reputation.
Let’s uncover the negative impact of this little sentence and I’ll even share some of mme’s valuable practices for cultivating a positive candidate journey.
Value Perception Implodes
When an organisation highlights transparency and respect as core values, it implies a commitment to open communication, fairness, and inclusivity. However, including the phrase “only successful applicants will be contacted” blows up these values. In one sentence the company has demonstrated that it prioritises its own convenience and interests over the needs and experiences of the potential new employees. This misalignment between stated values and actions erodes trust and creates skepticism among potential candidates. It’s widely reported that GEN Z who are currently entering or already actively participating in the workforce, bring a unique set of perspectives, skills, and attitudes to the workplace and for them, the key driver is value alignment. You really can’t afford the risk of being viewed as exclusive when inclusion impacts 83%* of Gen Z’s decision on where to work.
Candidate Journey up in flames
Consider a scenario where a company receives 50 applications for a single position and ultimately selects just one candidate. While it is true that only one person can be hired, it is crucial for organisations to recognise that the other 49 candidates have invested time and effort in their applications. No acknowledgment sets fire to their candidate experience leaving them feeling burnt and disappointed. Each candidate deserves to be treated with respect and consideration, regardless of the final outcome. By providing all candidates with a positive journey, organisations demonstrate their commitment to fairness and respect, reinforcing their brand and culture.
Negative word of mouth detonates your reputation.
In today’s interconnected world, experiences and opinions are easily shared with others. Unresponsive application processes and lack of communication leave a lasting impression on job seekers. Those who have experienced silence from a company they applied to often share their frustrations with friends, family, and professional networks. We know negativity spreads like wildfire! Negative feedback about a company’s application process can blast away any hope of attracting top talent, essentially deterring potential candidates from considering the organisation in the future.
During the recruitment process it’s a case of show don’t just tell. Uphold your ethics and values and support your claims with actions. Let your employer brand shine and it will ignite the reasons for engagement. Here are mme’s top 4 practices that foster a positive experience for our job seekers:
- Transparent communication: Clearly communicate the stages of the application process and set expectations regarding timelines and next steps. Regular updates help applicants feel valued and informed about their progress.
- Personalised feedback: While providing individualised feedback to all candidates may be impractical, offering constructive feedback to shortlisted candidates who were not ultimately selected can provide valuable insights, encourage growth and offer a sense of worth.
- Timely closure: Promptly notifying all candidates of the final decision helps provide closure and allows them to move forward with their job search. A considerate rejection message that acknowledges their efforts demonstrates respect and professionalism.
- Continuous improvement: Regularly evaluate and refine the application process to ensure it aligns with the organisation’s values and offers an exceptional candidate experience. Encourage feedback from applicants to identify areas for improvement.
The overarching message here is that value and respect must be given to every applicant’s journey. It will enhance an organisation’s reputation, attract top talent, and foster a positive employer brand in the competitive job market.
So, it’s time to burn the “only successful applicants will be contacted” phrase. Commit to the process, protect your brand, and deliver an experience that aligns with your company’s core values and you will ensure no one is feeling left in the ashes.
*Monster survey, MAR 2023
Employment Market Trends Quarter 2 24/25
The 2024 calendar year was defined by cautious economic policies, tighter budgets, and tough decisions. Smaller Northern Beaches businesses, in particular, had to navigate these challenges, while larger companies showed some resilience. The slowdown in wage growth also limited consumer spending, further affecting the economy. Looking ahead, 2025 offers a more optimistic outlook. The…
How to find candidates who aren’t on job board sites
Wondering where to find high-quality candidates? You won’t always find them on your local job boards. To find the best people, you must look beyond the ads.