Receiving a rejection email is not a pleasant experience for any potential candidate. However, it is much better than not hearing from the company, getting ghosted, or wondering what happened to one’s application.
While recruitment is already a costly process and adding time to write and send rejection emails may seem silly, it can prove to be an investment in the long term. Here’s why:
It Displays Respect
Rejection emails show respect for the applicants’ time and effort, which everyone deserves, even if they don’t qualify for the job. Applicants can become hopeful when applying for the job, and leaving them in the dark can hurt their motivation. By sending a simple rejection email, companies can acknowledge the applicants’ efforts and show their gratitude for their interest.
While it won’t be pleasant to read that they didn’t get the job, acknowledgment and gratitude for their interest can lift up their spirits and motivate them to apply to similar positions. It can also encourage the applicant to move on and consider another opportunity they have.
It Shows Professionalism
While many employers and HR personnel don’t believe they owe anything to those they aren’t hiring, all business is based on give and take. Companies give products/services to customers in exchange for money and give money to their employees in exchange for their services.
Hence, companies owe an email in response to candidates’ applications. It may not be obligatory, but it is expected from a professional and ethical point of view. It can also spark a productive conversation between the company and the applicant that can help shine a better light on their talents or provide clarity to both parties.
It Promotes Networking
Applicants can seem unfit for a vacancy for various reasons. However, they may qualify for a different position or time. Ghosting the applicants can leave a sour taste in their mouths about the company. It can also make the applicants reluctant to apply again or consider another position with the same company. They might also be hesitant to take another chance with the company, even as a customer.
On the other hand, hearing back from the company that they haven’t been selected for whatever reason can make the applicant feel better about themselves as well as the company. They might be a little disappointed for not getting the job, but they wouldn’t hold any grudge against the company or feel weird about it. If they are a customer, they will continue to be a customer.
As an HR personnel, you can even reach out to these applicants directly for an opportunity in the future. You can also discuss part-time, contract-based, or project-based opportunities even if they aren’t available full-time.
Rejection emails are not fun; neither to read nor write. However, they can accomplish many long-term benefits for the company.
Last but not least, ensure that you send a polite and professional rejection email. Always thank the applicant for their interest and regret not getting to know them better or working with them. Keeping a cheerful attitude can significantly help project a positive image of the company.
