In the digital age of today, communication is essential, particularly in the highly competitive environment that is IT staffing. As an IT staffing company, the ability you have to communicate with applicants can be the difference between success or failure in locating the most talented candidates for your customers. Texting has become an increasingly popular method of communication and is the fastest and most convenient method to communicate with potential candidates. But, there are some important guidelines to adhere to for professionalism, and respect. Here are seven guidelines for IT companies that text with applicants:
1. Obtain Consent Before Texting
Before you send text messages to applicants it is essential to get their permission. Be clear about the reason for texts and how often they will be receiving texts from your IT staffing company. This will ensure that applicants are familiar with and comfortable receiving messages via text.
2. Use Professional Language
Although texting can appear casual but it’s essential to keep an appropriate tone when interacting with potential employers. Beware of using abbreviations, slang or emojis that could be thought of as being inappropriate. Your writing must be a reflection of the professionalism and honesty of your IT staffing company.
3. Respect Candidates’ Time
Candidates have busy lives and uninvited text messages could be an irritant. Be considerate of the time of candidates by making sure you send messages within the proper times and refrain from sending messages that are too frequent. You should consider scheduling messages to times that people are most likely be in touch and responsive.
4. Provide Value in Your Messages
You must ensure that every SMS message that you transmit offers something of value to the person you are sending it to. If it’s information regarding an opening or updates regarding the status of their applications or advice to help prepare for interviews, ensure the messages you send are pertinent and valuable. Offering value enhances your relationships with potential candidates and improves the experience they have in working for your IT Staffing company.
5. Personalize Your Messages
Personalization is a huge factor in creating rapport with applicants. Send messages to candidates with their preferred names and refer to specific information from prior interactions or conversations. Personalized messages show your appreciation and respect for each person you meet as a person, not just an additional name to add to your list.
6. Keep Messages Concise and Clear
Text messages are limited in number of characters, so your text messages must be few. Be concise and avoid excessive talkative. It is important to communicate the reason for your message as well as any action items or subsequent steps required of the candidate.
7. Maintain Compliance with Regulations
The process of texting candidates has legal and regulatory implications including confidentiality and the right to consent. Be sure that your IT staffing company adheres to relevant laws like those of the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Get the proper consent, securely save candidate information, and be mindful of candidates’ privacy rights in all circumstances.
In conclusion, texting could be an effective instrument for IT staffing companies to effectively communicate with applicants. By adhering to these seven rules your staffing business can make use of texting to establish strong relationships with prospective candidates to streamline the process of recruitment and ultimately, place the best talent on your client. Make sure you place a high value on professionalism respect, integrity, and respect when you text with potential candidates.