Time to hire has been steadily increasing in recent years as unemployment rate reaching all time lows and job market still going strong.  But you still want your open positions to be filled now and you want to hire the best candidates available? By following a few best practices, you can achieve both. Here are a few steps to reduce the time to hire.

  1. Determine the ideal time to hire for your company.

    You can’t meet a goal you don’t set. Build out an ideal timeline to factor in the number of days to post a job, multiple interview rounds, and the hire-by date.

  2. Take the time to streamline and standardize your hiring process.

    Share this process with the whole hiring team. Use checklists so that you’re not missing any essential steps. Solicit feedback from the hiring team so that everyone is on board.

  3. Make sure the hiring manager and the recruiter are on the same page.

    Any breakdowns in communication will cost you time.

  4. Update the careers page on your company website.

    . Not only will this help with your branding, but it’s an opportunity to communicate your company’s mission and draw potential candidates in.

  5. Revamp your job postings.

    Do they use inclusive language and reflect company culture? Make sure the posting accurately describes the required and preferred qualifications so you don’t lose a great candidate at this stage. Detailed job responsibilities and clear job titles will attract the right candidates.

  6. Invest in a solid Application Tracking System.

    Find an Applicant Tracking System that can be customized to match your hiring process and recruiting needs not the other way around.  A solid Applicant Tracking System will save you time and frustration.

  7. Expand your candidate sourcing.

    Beside posting you jobs to popular or specialized job boards try to attend local conferences and events where you can meet potential candidates. Refer to your previous application pools for candidates that might be a great fit for the position. Develop a good referral program that incentivizes employees to help with recruitment. They know your company culture and job responsibilities best.

  8. Improve your communication with candidates.

    Communicate effectively and frequently. Use email templates to save time but tailor the emails as the hiring process advances.

  9. Interview and offer quickly.

    You could lose invaluable candidates by taking too long, which will only cost you more time. Determine who has decision-making authority, especially is there are last-minute changes in the availability of your hiring team.

An efficient and effective hiring process is a sign of a healthy company. By following these steps, you’ll be able to hire faster without compromising on the quality of your hire.