The power of communication is a fantastic thing. Reflect upon a recent conversation with someone that went great. The one whereas you walked away you felt like you had a clear image or purpose from what was discussed. The chances are that person was a great communicator. Maybe they told a great story or painted a crystal clear picture. There’s a variety of ways to be a great communicator.
Great communicators tend to exhibit most of the following traits when communicating.
Managers: First of all, think about those intake sessions. You know, the ones where the hiring manager gives you a ten-word summary of what they are looking for. Being a good communicator can help you pull more information out of managers. Let them know that you’re working on their behalf to find the right candidate. The more they can share with you (ask questions, clarify, listen) the better equipped you will be to find the right folks.
Strong communication skills will help you navigate the interview gauntlet as well. If your company doesn’t have much of a process, your strong communication can help show them how a process helps. I don’t know about you, but I get feedback from managers sometimes that is “not a fit.” Guess what? That doesn’t help me OR you. Let’s talk about why someone wasn’t a fit. This way I’m better prepared to give the candidate feedback and adjust my search accordingly.
Candidates: There are so many areas where great communication with candidates helps everyone. To start with your ability to articulate what your company does. Drilling down another level where you show the candidate that this role makes an impact at the company. Listening and paying attention to what is essential to the candidate in their next role is hugely beneficial.
As the candidate moves or doesn’t move, through the interview process, clear communication is critical. It’s been said a million times – a candidate would much rather hear a “No, and here’s why” than crickets if they don’t get selected. Letting them know status updates on a regular basis is the sign of a great recruiter and communicator. I have had hiring managers that somehow enjoy agonizing over every little detail about a candidate. This process moves super slowly, and knowing this, I prepare a candidate when I first speak with them.
Your team: Whether you work with 25 other recruiters or 2 others in the HR department, team communication is essential for great teamwork. Being able to connect, share facts and updates, ask questions and listen helps everyone work better together. It helps to create the sense of team. Plus it’s worth mentioning the power of listening in communication again. Everyone wants to be heard and understood.
Listen up!
Having strong communication skills helps you in many areas of your life. There’s no doubt communicating clearly and effectively pays huge dividends as a recruiter. The benefits are not only to you but also to your candidates, hiring managers, and team.
