Insights

In previous years the employer dominated the recruitment process, enjoying the consideration of a wide choice of candidates for any given position. This position of strength has seen candidates pandering to employers, pulling out all of the stops to get that sought after job. However, there has been a dramatic shift in the property industry to a more candidate-led market and the balance of power is now far more even, to the point that it is now the employer who needs to impress the candidate!

Candidates with the right skill sets have a lot more control of the recruitment process. They are receiving multiple offers and are able to decide which employer they want to work for. As a result, the candidate now has much more influence in the interview process and only the clients who are fulfilling their side of the bargain are gaining the best workers.

The modern day recruiter now has to concentrate on what they have to offer. Candidates no longer consider employment as just a job, but more a lifestyle choice, requiring compatibility on more levels than just the job description. Emotional understanding and the certainty of a secure position are among the primary requirements of candidates today. Candidates are searching for a role that challenges them and will support their personal and professional development. It is not just a matter of how well candidates fit into the client's specifications any longer; it is vital now for clients to satisfy the needs of the candidate.

The emphasis is on employers to offer a desirable proposition. We are all aware that a candidate should communicate with open and positive body language, engaging eye contact and convey a positive attitude, but has anyone ever questioned that of the client? It is essential to portray yourself and the company reputation in a positive light, to speak with animated energy and represent the brand with an honest yet inspiring attitude. Look at it as a sales pitch; if you are not enthusiastic about what you are selling, how do you expect the buyer to be? You need to generate excitement in the candidate at the prospect of being part of a dynamic and successful company and instill the trust that they will be a valued member of a passionate team. This will create the right impression and pave the way for a successful interview.

It is not merely the role itself that influences the decision of a candidate. As cliché as it may sound, it is the whole package. A candidate will construct their first impression based on the surroundings they enter into. It may not be top of your agenda, but the cleanliness, design and layout of your office will have a huge impact on a candidate's decision. Spending about eight hours per day there, the office environment and culture is crucial to a prospective employee. It's no lie that a well-designed, spacious, clean office creates more productive, happier employees so make sure the office is well prepared before an interview!



How you, as an employer, present yourself will establish rapport with the candidate and how they perceive you will dictate how they will relate to you as an employer. Disorganisation instantly illustrates to a candidate that you are not ready for the interview, let alone ready to provide a winning job and a secure career. We've all heard those horror stories of candidates sent to the wrong address or the interviewing director absent at the arranged interview time. As much as the candidate is trying to impress you, it's as important that you impress them too.

So if you're intent on attracting the best candidates, you need to make the necessary preparations to compete in today's candidate-orientated market.