Are you using text messaging to communicate with potential hires? Most companies are.
Texting is one of the most popular forms of communication today. We use it for all areas of our lives, including business. According to Toronto recruiters, texting has also become popular in the recruiting world. It’s a quick and instantaneous form of communication. When used at the right time and for the right reasons, it can be an effective tool for hiring managers to support the recruiting process.
However, there are some limitations and potential issues that could arise. This is why it’s important to know when and how to text. Here we outline some important tips for hiring managers to follow if you want to use text messaging to recruit candidates:
1. Ask First
While sending a text message is not likely an issue with candidates, it’s always a good idea to ask before sending a message. Alternatively, you could inform them you may be contacting them via text in job ads to give them advance notice.
2. Use It in the Right Context
Text messaging is great for communicating some types of information, and not so great for others. What type of information should you communicate via text?
- Scheduling interviews
- Getting directions
- Following up
- Quick information verification
Texting is not good for more detailed and important conversations. Save conversations about job offers, applications, and negotiations for in-person meetings or phone conversations.
3. Stick to Normal Business Hours
Even though you may be working late, it doesn’t mean others are receptive to your communications. Avoid sending text messages outside of business hours. Sending a text on the weekend to a prospective candidate does not show respect for their personal time. It could also show you don’t have respect for work-life balance and people’s personal space. That text can wait until the next business day.
4. Don’t Use It as Your Primary Means of Communication
All forms of communication have their limitations. Don’t use texting when another form of communication may be better suited for the conversation you need to have. Use texting strategically to further the recruiting process.
Learn More About the Role of Texting in Recruiting From a Toronto Recruitment Agency
Get more great advice from Toronto recruiters about using texting as a recruiting tool:
Is Texting an Effective Recruiting Tool?
5 Recruiting Rules for Texting Job Candidates
7 Tips to Conduct Highly Effective Social Media Background Checks
IQ PARTNERS is an Executive Search & Recruitment firm supporting clients across the country. We help companies hire better, hire less & retain more. We have specialist teams of recruiters in Executive Search / Board & C-Suite, Technology, Media, Digital & Marketing, Accounting & Finance, Financial Services & Insurance, Cannabis, Startup, Data Science, Consumer, eCommerce & Retail, Operations & HR, Manufacturing, Supply Chain & Engineering, Legal & Professional Services, Pharmaceutical & Life Sciences, Non-Profit & Sustainability, and Sales. IQ PARTNERS has its head office in Toronto and operates internationally via Aravati Global Search Network. Click here to view current job openings and to register with us.