What are the Three Things That Job Seekers Want?

Job seekers have the advantage in the highly competitive job market of 2017. That's because companies have plenty of positions to fill, and they need top talent for each one. People trying to land a position want three things out of their job search, according to a massive LinkedIn survey of 14,000 people around the world.

First, Some Stats

As many as 90 percent of the respondents said they are open to new opportunities, even if they already have a job. That indicates companies may freely engage with job seekers in a passive search. Nearly two-thirds of respondents, or 63 percent, said they would feel flattered if companies reached out to them. More than half, or 56 percent, would prefer hearing directly from the hiring manager, as opposed to a recruiter or an administrative assistant.

That being said, the LinkedIn survey breaks down into a few major categories that describe three things job seekers need the most from a company when on the hunt.

1. Information

Job seekers need as much information as possible to make the right decision about jumping to another opportunity. A full 89 percent of respondents want details about the job, 72 percent desire to see a salary range and 69 percent would like to see a company overview once the firm reaches out to them. Candidates look for information on the company website, through LinkedIn or on social media. They want firms to be open and honest about what it takes to work there, which means companies should make it easy for potential employees to find this information.

2. Benefits Beyond Money

Employees love compensation beyond just a salary and health insurance. These intangible benefits include finding a place to fit in and connect with others, having professional growth opportunities and engaging in challenging work. Employers should stay in touch with workers regularly to keep their interest, either by changing up the work they do or providing ways to earn promotions. Up to 56 percent of employees remain with their current firm when they have work that challenges them or improves their skills.

3. Speedy Response

In a competitive job market, employers must design a hiring process that appeals to top candidates. In a survey conducted by Robert Half in 2016, 57 percent of respondents said they don't like waiting extended periods to hear back about an interview. More than one-third, or 39 percent, felt waiting seven to 14 days was too long. The LinkedIn survey indicated that 84 percent of respondents were okay with three interviews during the hiring process. However, 65 percent of job seekers turned away from an opportunity due to a bad interview experience.

The key here is that companies should make interviews an experience rather than a transaction. Just like the initial contact, there should be plenty of information exchanged during an interview.

Job seekers are open to changing jobs, but only if the right opportunity comes along for them. Companies that remain open, transparent, and genuinely interested in a particular candidate win the day when it comes to landing top talent, whether candidates already have a job or not.

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