x

On-Demand Webinar: Keeping Up with Compliance for Q4 Watch Now

3 Steps to Get Candidates to Fill Out Your Job Application

Back to Blog
After lots of hard work, your company has mastered getting candidates to click on a job post. And yet, the applications from candidates aren’t flowing in. Don’t fret, you are not alone. It is estimated that upwards of 70% of all job seekers drop off before completing an application, some before even starting it. But there are steps you can take to help increase candidate application submissions.

The key to improving your candidate conversion rate is following these 3 easy steps:

1. Keep it simple

The first step is shortening your job descriptions. They should be simple but effective. Simply stated, if your job description is full of jargon or is very long, you are likely losing candidates. Job descriptions should be pointed and direct. You do not need to list everything that this person might possibly do while in the role. Instead, focus on the primary functions of the role and key skills required. Carry over this theme of “simple” as you approach your application process.

While the candidate is viewing your job posting, is there any clear call to action and a simple path to get the candidate from the job post to the application itself? The longer it takes a candidate to get to the application, the more likely they are to stop. Minimize the clicks, minimize the drop-off.

candidate-experience-webinar-2.jpg
 

2. Get mobile

Mobile is the language of today when it comes to job applications. If your job application is not mobile, you are missing out on many of today’s job seekers. According to Glassdoor, 89% of job seekers say their mobile device is an important tool for job searching and 45% use it to search for jobs at least once a day.

3. Keep it short

Studies have shown that an application with more than 25 questions drives a 300% increase in drop-offs. And many candidates have stated that being able to complete an application in 10 minutes or less is ideal. Take time to review the length of your application both for the amount of questions and time it takes to complete. Validate that you are not having a candidate enter the same information twice and remove any questions that are not critical to the process.
 
In today’s market, candidates have choices when it comes to employment and they know this. Getting them to your application is just one step in the journey. The key to filling more jobs faster is having more efficient and streamlined descriptions and applications. Follow these suggestions to attract and retain qualified candidates.

About the Author

Recognizing the need for integration of the “human-touch” and automation in staffing, Virginia Watson founded Watson Workforce Solutions in 2017. With a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Richmond – Robins School of Business, completion of IMD Business School’s Executive Leadership Program, and over 30-years  of experience, Virginia has put her passion and knowledge to success in the staffing industry.

Related Topics

Share Post