Headshot of Heidi Golledge, Co-Founder and CEO of staffing solutions company Jobot.
Hiring can be impersonal, says Heidi Golledge, Founder and CEO of Jobot. By prioritizing humanity, though, you can attract people who are loyal and committed to your mission. — Jobot

If you could create your own fantasy board of directors, who would be on it? CO— connects you with thought leaders from across the business spectrum and asks them to help solve your biggest business challenges. In this edition, we ask an expert about how to humanize your hiring process.

In this edition of "Ask the Board," we feature Heidi Golledge, Founder and CEO of Jobot, a staffing solutions company. Heidi shares her advice on how small businesses can design a more human hiring process and in turn attract the best candidates.

In today's competitive job market, hiring often becomes a numbers game — filling roles as quickly as possible without considering the experience of those going through the process. I believe that hiring should be about much more than filling a seat; it's about creating meaningful connections between good companies and good people. By prioritizing humanity in hiring practices, businesses can build loyal teams and foster a work environment where people genuinely want to contribute.

Here are my five tips to help companies bring more compassion, transparency, and respect into the hiring process.

Communicate clearly and frequently

One of the most frustrating things for candidates is sending out résumés and applications and hearing nothing in return. It's easy for job seekers to feel like their application disappeared into a black hole.

That silence is disheartening and shows a lack of respect for the candidate's time and effort. Even a quick update — just letting them know their application is still under review — can make a world of difference. Clear communication throughout the process helps candidates feel valued and keeps them engaged, even if they're not the final choice.

Offer timely and thoughtful feedback

Feedback is often overlooked but can be one of the most powerful ways to create a more human hiring experience. Whether or not someone is a good fit for the job, providing thoughtful feedback shows you see them as more than just a résumé.

Constructive feedback helps candidates grow, and even when the answer is no, it turns a negative experience into a positive, forward-looking one. This small gesture of empathy fosters goodwill and keeps candidates engaged with your company.

I believe that hiring should be about much more than filling a seat; it's about creating meaningful connections between good companies and good people.

Heidi Golledge, Co-Founder and CEO of Jobot

Personalize the interview process

An interview should be a conversation, not a checklist. Every candidate brings their own unique experiences and background to the table, and tailoring your approach to reflect this makes them feel truly seen.

When the interview process feels human and personal, candidates are more likely to engage deeply and share what really makes them tick. This type of interaction helps companies find candidates who are not only qualified but are aligned with the organization's values and culture.

Foster inclusivity from the start

Inclusion isn't just a buzzword; it's the foundation of a hiring process that respects and values people for who they are. From the language in job descriptions to the composition of interview panels, companies need to prioritize inclusivity at every stage.

Doing so creates a process where candidates of all backgrounds feel welcomed and respected, and they're more likely to thrive in an environment that values diversity. By ensuring that everyone has a fair shot, you build a team that reflects the richness of human experience — and that's a win for everyone.

Extend empathy, even in rejections

Nobody enjoys being rejected, but how you deliver that rejection makes all the difference. Taking the time to acknowledge a candidate's effort and offering kind words or suggesting other opportunities can turn a painful moment into a dignified one.

It's about treating people the way you would want to be treated, even when the outcome isn't what they hoped for. At Jobot, we believe that extending empathy in every interaction is a key part of building long-term relationships, even with candidates who aren't the right fit today.

CO— aims to bring you inspiration from leading respected experts. However, before making any business decision, you should consult a professional who can advise you based on your individual situation.

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