A Job Seeker Experience: Embracing Empathy and Transparency

I recently came across an email which I consider to be a breath of fresh air in a new normal of impersonal no reply job rejection replies. It’s still a rejection, but I was impressed by what I read. "Floored" is actually the word I'd use to describe how I felt. This is after receiving a no reply the morning after applying for another role, and being told it has already been filled with another candidate. When I checked the posting, I saw it was still active and the recruiter also created a very recent LinkedIn post on her own profile about the job. I swiftly asked for some true feedback, and if I can't receive it, I requested they update their auto no replies to something believable and requested some transparency. Time will tell if I receive a human reply.

But back to the kinder, more empathetic reply, which takes some effort but not an unreasonable amount to implement.

This type of rejection email doesn't hurt nearly as much

I appreciated the email, and needed to hear it. I was craving something different. Here's why:

1. Transparency and empathy in the wording of the email. I especially like the "please don’t take it personally" line, because it can be difficult to not take it personally sometimes—especially for a role where all boxes are checked. I’m sure other job seekers can relate. The company admitted they once turned someone great down, only to realize their mistake and eventually bring them on.

2. They’re open to offering second chances and stating they have room to improve. So a "no" could mean a "not yet" in many cases.

3. There’s an actual email you can reply to, not just the standard  "no reply" which ends the conversation right there. I took the opportunity and replied in a thoughtful and grateful manner. You never know who may read it, and it may go somewhere in the future.

A positive candidate experience equals a memorable customer experience, even this early on in the recruitment game. Job seekers are craving something more human when they open up that email- even when its a rejection. They're showcasing their brand and company culture to potential employees. These employees could be advocates for the organization. This is the kind of organization I’d be proud to work for and I would happily refer other solid and qualified job seekers, too.

More of this similar verbiage, please!