As the festive season approaches, businesses often experience a shift in priorities, with recruitment activities slowing down to accommodate holiday schedules. However, for Talent Acquisition professionals, the holiday period presents a unique opportunity to strengthen relationships with candidates and ensure a seamless recruitment process. Effective check-ins before and after the Christmas break can make all the difference in keeping candidates engaged, informed, and ready to move forward. Here’s why these touchpoints are critical and how to approach them.
Why Pre-Break Check-Ins Matter
Maintain Momentum: For candidates deep in the recruitment process, the holiday slowdown can create uncertainty or frustration. A pre-break check-in reassures them that their application is still a priority and provides clarity on next steps.
Set Expectations: Communicate timelines for interviews, assessments, or decisions that may be pushed into the new year. Setting clear expectations prevents misunderstandings and keeps candidates informed about potential delays.
Reinforce Interest: Candidates who feel neglected during the break may begin exploring other opportunities. A simple check-in reminds them of your organization’s interest and keeps the relationship warm.
Address Questions: The end of the year is often a time for reflection. Candidates may have questions about the role, team dynamics, or company culture. Proactively addressing their concerns helps build trust and confidence.
What to Cover in a Pre-Break Check-In
Thank candidates for their interest and progress so far.
Provide a summary of where they are in the process.
Outline any next steps and their timing (e.g., “We’ll reconvene interviews in the second week of January”).
Share contact details in case they have urgent questions during the break.
Why Post-Break Check-Ins Are Crucial
Reignite Engagement: After the holiday lull, candidates may need a nudge to reengage with the recruitment process. A timely post-break check-in signals that it’s time to pick up where you left off.
Reassess Availability: Circumstances can change over the break. Candidates may have received other offers, shifted their priorities, or even taken on new roles. A post-break check-in helps you gauge their current level of interest and availability.
Provide Updates: The start of the year often brings renewed hiring energy. Share any changes in timelines, roles, or expectations to ensure candidates are aligned with the process.
Show Professionalism: Consistent communication reflects positively on your company’s brand. Candidates will appreciate the effort to keep them in the loop, reinforcing their perception of your organization as organized and respectful of their time.
What to Cover in a Post-Break Check-In
Welcome candidates back and express hope that they had a restful break.
Reiterate your interest in their application.
Share updated timelines, interview schedules, or decision-making milestones.
Encourage them to share any changes in their availability or interest.
Tips for Effective Candidate Check-Ins
Personalize the Communication: Avoid generic messages. Tailor your check-ins to reflect the candidate’s unique position in the recruitment process and their interactions with your team.
Choose the Right Medium: Depending on the stage of the process, a phone call, email, or even a personalized message on LinkedIn can be effective.
Be Transparent: If there are delays or uncertainties, be upfront about them. Candidates appreciate honesty over vague reassurances.
Be Concise: Respect the candidate’s time by keeping your communication focused and to the point.
The Bigger Picture
Effective candidate check-ins are more than just touchpoints; they’re an opportunity to demonstrate your organization’s commitment to a positive candidate experience. By prioritizing communication before and after the Christmas break, you can reduce drop-off rates, build stronger relationships, and set the stage for successful hiring outcomes in the new year.
The festive season may bring a temporary pause to business as usual, but your efforts to stay connected with candidates will have a lasting impact. Take the time to check in, and you’ll be well-positioned to start the new year with a motivated and engaged talent pool.
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