The digital age ushered in a new era for candidates trying to find a job. Dedicated websites and apps let potential employees fill out applications in mere minutes, and employers receive that information right away. One consequence of this electronic revolution is that candidates conduct online research before deciding to even fill out an application. That's because of the readily accessible information on the internet.
A 2017 survey from ManpowerGroup, one of the world's largest staffing agencies, illustrates how candidates use online research to empower their job search. Candidates examine what's most important to them as they determine which companies deserve their attention. The survey revealed that the type of work and compensation are the two most important factors to candidates seeking employment. Flexible schedules and benefits tied for third on the list.
Perhaps the most revealing statistic about readily accessible information and online research is the compensation for a particular position. Nearly half, or 44 percent, of the 14,000 people surveyed around the world said that they knew the details of a position's compensation before applying for a job.
Disconnect
Both employers and candidates value technology and its role in the job search process. However, technology may also get in the way of a job search for candidates. As many as 20 percent of job seekers say they don't want to spend more than 20 minutes filling out an online job application. Around two-thirds, or 66 percent, don't want to wait more than two weeks to hear back from a company.
If an employer doesn't have the right tools in place, top talent may focus on other firms. Until this point, candidates had to wait until further in the process to gauge whether or not to continue with the process.
What These Trends Mean
ManpowerGroup asserts that these numbers indicate candidates have the true power in the hiring process. Because candidates have an idea of what they want, prospective employees can find as many details about a position as possible through online research. Sources such as official websites, social media, LinkedIn, job review websites and networking opportunities open up several avenues for job seekers to explore a company's culture, mission, values, benefits and compensation packages. Top talent then uses the information to make decisions about which companies deserve their time, energy and efforts.
The highly competitive job market, coupled with millions of unfilled positions, shows there is some disconnect between employers and candidates. Companies must gauge candidate preferences, analyze them and then cater to what job seekers want. The main trend is that candidates prefer to have full disclosure up front before the application process begins rather than hearing new information after the final interview.
If you have what it takes to work for a company that meets your specific needs, then you have the power. Online research and resources allow you to find all the information you need to make an informed decision before applying for an open position.
Photo courtesy of Richa Choudhary at Flickr.com
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