The Interview A Transaction— It’s Your Brand’s First Date
We’ve all heard how important it is to make a good impression on candidates. But let’s push past the usual buzzwords and see the big picture: every step of your hiring process is a window into your brand. It’s like the difference between a bland first date and one that leaves you excited for what’s next. Here’s how I’ve come to view the candidate experience— shaped by founding and running a top recruiting consultancy and helping countless companies scale through strategic hiring—from an angle you won’t hear every day.
Hiring Is an Invitation to Join Your Story
Most organizations focus on the “need” for specific skills—think of it as the job description. But truly visionary companies treat hiring as inviting someone to help write the next chapter of their story. Candidates aren’t just puzzle pieces to fill a gap – they’re potential co-authors who can shape where you go next.
Share Your ‘Why’: Instead of rattling off job requirements, open with the broader mission that guides your company. Why do you exist? How do you hope to impact the world or your industry?
Paint the Future: Show them where they fit into the bigger picture—and why it matters. Let them see that this role isn’t just about a paycheck; it’s about building something meaningful together.
Interviews Should Feel Like a Conversation— Not an Interrogation
If the process is stiff or formal to the point of awkwardness, you’ve already lost the chance to bond on a human level. When top talent senses they’re being “processed,” they’ll tune out.
Ask Unexpected Questions: Move past the usual “Where do you see yourself in five years?” Instead, explore what energizes them, what they’re curious about, or what big problems they dream of solving.
Show Genuine Curiosity: The candidate is evaluating you just as much as you’re evaluating them. Show you’re ready to meet them as a peer, not just an interviewee.
The Silent Treatment Kills the Vibe
Ever been on a date where the other person disappears for days on end? Doesn’t leave a great impression. It’s the same with candidates.
Make Quick Follow-Ups a Habit: Even if there’s no major update, a friendly note saying, “We’re still reviewing,” can speak volumes.
Build Communication Touchpoints: Map out specific moments to connect—right after an interview, midway through the process, and when making decisions. This removes guesswork and makes candidates feel valued.
Don’t Just Talk About Culture— Show It
Culture is more than a slogan on your careers page. It’s revealed in every interaction, every message, every Zoom call. If you preach flexibility but force candidates through rigid hoops, your words and actions don’t match.
Personalize Where You Can: If you know a candidate is passionate about sustainability, for instance, have them speak with a leader who’s driving your company’s green initiatives.
Involve Future Teammates: Nothing says “we respect your time” like letting people meet the folks they’ll work with daily. It’s transparent and helps both sides get a real sense of fit.
Why This Matters More Than Ever
We’re in an era where top candidates have endless options. They can skip to the next company the moment they sense disorganization or indifference. By being intentional—treating interviews as crucial brand moments instead of perfunctory steps—you stand out in a crowded market.
But it’s not just about landing A-players; it’s about building an organization that thrives when they join. A smooth, meaningful hiring journey is the first signal that you’re serious about excellence and humanity in your workplace.
Final Thought
Hiring shouldn’t be just about “filling a seat.” It’s about giving people a glimpse of your vision, culture, and impact—then inviting them along for the ride. Approach every step with authenticity, curiosity, and mutual respect, and you’ll attract a team that’s genuinely excited to build something remarkable with you.