Text recruiting

I was reading an article yesterday, and it spoke a little about recruiting via text messages.

Has anyone had any success in this area?

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Will Thomson on May 23, 2013 at 12:20pm

You know I haven't done a whole lot of text recruiting. Just another tool in your toolbox. I am sure it works. So often I don't have a phone number, so I have to use other methods of contacting the passive candidates. Great topic though. Interested to hear what others say. Thanks!

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Permalink Reply by Andrew Hanneman on May 23, 2013 at 12:26pm

I don't recruit with it, but once I have a candidate in my ATS , I frequently use text as a communication tool. I work in Contract work and speed is the name of the game. My candidates often can't answer phones but can answer quick text regarding openings and interest.

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Permalink Reply by Ryan Harding on May 23, 2013 at 12:51pm

I feel this could be a great way to reach potential candidates. If you are able to get the messaging right, it could be a way of reaching passive candidates in a way no other recruiter is reaching them.

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Permalink Reply by Suzanne Levison on May 30, 2013 at 10:17am

Agree

Andrew Hanneman said:

I don't recruit with it, but once I have a candidate in my ATS , I frequently use text as a communication tool. I work in Contract work and speed is the name of the game. My candidates often can't answer phones but can answer quick text regarding openings and interest.

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Permalink Reply by Debra Nathan on May 30, 2013 at 10:40am

I read an article and then texted a passive candidate. He ended up calling me back and scolded me that it was his work phone and his company looks closely at his calls and texts. He ended up interviewing for the opportunity I had but it was the only time I feel like I may have jeopardized confidentiality so I still feel bad will probably not be doing it again.

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Permalink Reply by Ryan Harding on May 30, 2013 at 12:15pm

Sounds like it may be a good tool to use depending on how and when you use it.

Thanks for the responses!

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Permalink Reply by Linda Ferrante on May 31, 2013 at 12:42pm

NEVER as a first point of contact!! If not for the very reason Debra mentioned, texting is a very casual way to contact people you know well, or if you are trying to win a contest!

Please give the candidates the measure of respect they deserve and contact them properly, either by phone or email. Once you develop a relationship with someone, you can discuss future methods of communication. I NEVER respond to texts by candidates or prospects, unless we have discussed it ahead of time.

I don't think it's being 'old fashioned' or 'out of touch', but it absolutely has to do with the level of professionalism you project and expect from others!