The recruitment landscape is rapidly evolving, and effective communication with candidates has become a key factor in a company’s success. Traditional email communication methods, which often resulted in low response rates, have proven to be limited. Today, text messaging has become the new standard, offering more immediate and personalized communication.
Text messaging is more than just a contact tool—it plays a crucial role in creating a positive experience for candidates and building trust when approached strategically. However, indiscriminate texting can backfire, making it important to use this method thoughtfully.
This article explores why text messaging is a powerful tool in the recruitment process, how it helps build strong relationships with candidates, and how to use it professionally without compromising on expertise.
Why is Text Messaging Effective While Email Isn't?
Research shows that text messages boast an open rate of 98%, significantly outperforming emails with an average 20% open rate (SMS Comparison). This is because text messaging has become a personal communication channel. People check their text messages more frequently than emails, and the response times are faster. Therefore, strategically using text messaging in recruitment can greatly enhance communication efficiency.
However, text messages are much more immediate and personal than emails, so the content and timing of the messages must be handled carefully to avoid eroding trust.
Don’t Just Send Texts—Engage with Candidates
Text messaging isn’t just a tool; it’s a strategic communication channel that reaches into a candidate's personal space. The appropriateness, timing, and level of personalization of your message are crucial. An overly long or inappropriate message could make candidates feel uncomfortable.
Before sending a message, it’s essential to build rapport and ensure that the content provides value to the recipient. Make sure the message delivers something beneficial, is sent at the right time, and aligns with what the candidate would find useful. A message that fails to meet these standards could damage the relationship, so it’s essential to review it thoroughly before hitting send.
Start by building rapport. The candidate’s experience matters. If they feel like just a number, you’ve lost them. So, before pressing send, ask yourself:
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Does this message offer value to the candidate?
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Is this the right time to send the message?
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Am I providing useful information from the candidate’s perspective?
Messages that fail to meet these criteria could harm your relationship, so always check before sending.
How to Use Text Messaging for Initial Sourcing
Text messaging can be highly effective during the initial candidate sourcing stage. Here are some specific ways to use text messages for first contact:
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Personalized Introduction: "Hi [Name], I’m [Your Name] from [Company]. I was really impressed by your [specific skill]. Would you be open to a quick chat?"
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Clear Role Description: "We’re currently hiring for the [Job Title] role, and your experience seems like a great fit. If you’re interested, I’d be happy to share more details."
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Response-Driving Questions: "Would you have 5 minutes to discuss this role?" A short and direct question can prompt a response.
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Provide Additional Information: “Here’s a link to more details about the role: [Link].”
Text Message Template
Hi [Name] , I’m [Your Name] from [Company]. I was impressed by your [specific skill/experience], and we’re looking for someone for the [Job Title] role. If you're interested, would you be available for a brief chat? Thanks!
, I’m [Your Name] from [Company]. I was impressed by your [specific skill/experience], and we’re looking for someone for the [Job Title] role. If you're interested, would you be available for a brief chat? Thanks!The first text should be clear and concise, with a tone that considers the recipient’s situation. Information-centered messages with an invitation to continue the conversation work best.
Don’t Just Provide Information—Manage Your Talent Pipeline
Text messaging is not only effective for short-term recruitment activities but also for long-term talent pipeline management. Regular communication helps maintain relationships with potential candidates, making it easier to quickly connect with the right talent when new opportunities arise. Here’s how to use text messaging to effectively manage your talent pipeline:
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Check-in Regularly: "How have things been going? What’s most important to you in your career development right now?"
Text Message Template
Hi [Name]! How have you been? If there’s anything I can assist with regarding your career development, feel free to reach out anytime!
How have you been? If there’s anything I can assist with regarding your career development, feel free to reach out anytime! •
Share Relevant News: "I’m sharing an industry trend report that might interest you: [Link]."
Text Message Template
Hi [Name] I wanted to share this [industry news] with you: [Link]. It seems relevant to your experience, and I’d love to hear your thoughts!
I wanted to share this [industry news] with you: [Link]. It seems relevant to your experience, and I’d love to hear your thoughts! •
Celebrate Birthdays or Career Anniversaries: "Happy Birthday!" or "Congratulations on your promotion!"
Text Message Template
Hi [Name] Happy [Career Anniversary/Birthday]! Wishing you continued success and a wonderful day ahead!
Happy [Career Anniversary/Birthday]! Wishing you continued success and a wonderful day ahead! •
Alert to New Opportunities: "A [Job Title] position just opened up, and your skillset seems like a great fit. Would you be interested?"
Text Message Template
Hi [Name] We’ve just opened up a [Job Title] position that seems like a perfect fit for your skills. Would you be interested in chatting about it?
We’ve just opened up a [Job Title] position that seems like a perfect fit for your skills. Would you be interested in chatting about it? •
Request Feedback: "Do you have any feedback regarding the position we discussed previously? Your input would be really helpful."
Text Message Template
Hi [Name]! I wanted to check in and get your feedback on the [Job Title] role we discussed. Your thoughts on [specific topic] would be really valuable. Thanks in advance!
These activities help you maintain a relationship with the candidate and enhance your company’s image.
Text Messaging: Not Just a Communication Tool, But a Strategic Asset
Text messaging goes beyond simply communicating—it’s a strategic tool for improving the candidate experience. Texts offer a way to provide concise, yet thoughtful support to candidates.
Text Messaging Rules for Recruitment Professionals
When using text messages for recruitment, it’s essential to send the right message at the right time, with the right tone.
What You Should Do
Personalize the Message: Use the candidate’s name, career details, or previous conversations to build trust. Keep it Short and Clear: Simple, concise messages are easier to read and respond to. Choose the Right Timing: Send messages during business hours and avoid early mornings or late nights. Provide Transparent, Honest Information: Be clear and honest about the role and opportunity to build trust. Include Clear Calls to Action: Ask clear, actionable questions like, "Would you have time to discuss this?"What You Should Avoid
Avoid Spam-like Messages: Generic "We’re Hiring!" messages lack personalization and can lose trust. Don’t Over-Message: Too many texts can annoy candidates. Don’t Misspell or Use Incorrect Grammar: Proofread to maintain professionalism. Don’t Provide Inaccurate Information: Ensure everything you share is correct to maintain credibility. Don’t Waste the Candidate’s Time: Make sure your message is clear, concise, and to the point.TalentSeeker is a tool that helps recruiters easily find candidate information and quickly access contact details across multiple platforms. With TalentSeeker, recruiters can connect with the right candidates faster and more efficiently.
Start using TalentSeeker today to quickly search for suitable candidates and send engaging first messages to build strong relationships!
