When job seekers interact with hiring managers, they are most likely hoping to nail the interview process and land the job. However, not just any hiring manager is the perfect fit. You can differentiate your company in a competitive space and attract better candidates by improving your recruiting skills. Today’s labor market is very tight, so anything hiring managers and in-house recruiters can do to make the process better for applicants benefits the company. Listed below are key features candidates may look for in a hiring manger:

Efficiency 

Recruiting top candidates involves many details and a lot of work. From setting up meetings, responding to inquiries, and conducting ample research, you must accomplish a lot at any given time. Job seekers look for a hiring manager who can juggle all these tasks and not let important aspects of the job fall through the cracks.

Clear Expectations

Job seekers want to know what is expected of them in the workplace. Prepare candidates by making them aware of the many expectations, including:

• Objectives of the company and position
• Workload expectations
• Benefits and salary
• Manager expectations

The details will differ depending on the company and industry, but be sure to provide and clearly outline expectations.

Strong Communication

Today, communication skills are a must. Job seekers want to know what opportunities are available, and they want their questions and concerns addressed immediately. Additionally, most serious candidates want updates on the hiring process. An unresponsive hiring manager who lacks strong communication skills could potentially lose high-quality candidates with substantial talent. Furthermore, communication skills should come in a variety of forms. You should not only be available and responsive to inquiries, but willing to communicate in a variety of formats, including text messaging and social media (in addition to email).

Listening Skills

One of the most important responsibilities of a hiring manager is listening to job seekers to determine what they want in a position, their goals, their talents, and their aspirations. The more you are familiar with the individuals, their accomplishments, and their desires, the easier it will be to find jobs they are qualified for and will enjoy. Additionally, if you are a good listener, candidates will be more confident with your recommendations and decisions.

A Positive Attitude

Some days are harder than others for hiring managers. Job seekers become frustrated and tired, no one is on board with your decisions, and there seems to be no perfect match for that one candidate. However, a positive attitude can make all the difference and can help with all your tasks and decisions. Additionally, a positive attitude can not only make you more likable and easier to work with, but can also help you solve problems easier.

Mastering these skills will elevate you from an average hiring manager to the best hiring manager. If you focus on them, you will attract higher-quality candidates and form richer connections that will lead to more successful placements.

This post was contributed by HiringThing. HiringThing is an award-winning online recruiting software provider dedicated to changing the way businesses hire talent. To read more HR-related topics regarding workplace culture, interview tips/tricks, technology and more please be sure to visit HiringThing's blog.