We often meet job seekers who are confused and frustrated by the lack of feedback they receive after interviews. It’s totally understandable you naturally want to know how you did and what you can improve for next time. But there are a few reasons why employers might hesitate to give feedback. Knowing these reasons can help you manage your expectations and approach your job search more strategically.
Here are some key points explaining why you might not be getting the feedback you are looking for:
- Discrimination Concerns
Employers might be concerned that giving specific feedback could lead to claims of discrimination. If a rejected candidate thinks the feedback suggests bias based on race, gender, age, or other protected characteristics, they might consider legal action. To avoid this risk, some employers prefer not to give any feedback at all.
- Legal Risks
Detailed feedback could be viewed as admitting a mistake in the hiring process, which might lead to legal disputes. For example, if the feedback implies a candidate wasn’t chosen because they seemed unqualified, the candidate might challenge this, especially if they believe they do meet the qualifications.
- Consistency and Fairness
Giving feedback consistently can be tricky. If one candidate gets different feedback than another, it might lead to claims of unfair treatment. Since some employers don’t have the resources to ensure everyone gets the same feedback, they might decide to skip it altogether.
- Time and Resource Constraints
Giving detailed feedback to several candidates can take a lot of time and effort. Legal teams often suggest skipping this step to keep things simple and avoid any possible issues.
Tips for Job Seekers
Understanding the legal and logistical challenges employers face can help you navigate your job search more effectively. Here are some tips to boost your chances of getting helpful feedback:
- Ask Politely and Respectfully
After receiving a rejection, send a polite email thanking the interviewer for their time and asking if they could provide any insights on how you could improve for future opportunities.
- Focus on Growth and Improvement
Let them know that you’re asking for feedback to help you grow and improve. This can reassure employers that you’re looking for helpful advice, not challenging their judgment.
- Connect on LinkedIn
Keep the lines of communication open and demonstrate your continued interest in a professional relationship. This can lead to informal feedback and advice down the road.
- Seek Feedback in Other Areas
If you don’t get direct feedback, try turning to career coaches, mentors, or mock interviews. These resources can give you great insights into your performance and help you sharpen your interview skills.
Navigating the job market can be tough, especially when feedback is hard to come by. Understanding why employers might be hesitant to give feedback can help you manage your expectations and find other ways to improve. By being respectful and professional in your requests, keeping in touch, and seeking advice from other sources, you can increase your chances of getting valuable insights. Staying proactive and positive in your job search will help you grow and succeed in your career.
How Employers can Enhance the Candidate Experience
While employers may be limited in the feedback they can provide for legal and logistical reasons, they can still ensure candidates have a positive interviewing experience through effective communication. Regular updates on where candidates stand in the process, clear timelines, and courteous notifications when a candidate is no longer being considered can significantly enhance the candidate’s experience. By keeping candidates informed, employers demonstrate respect and transparency, which not only helps maintain a positive reputation but also encourages candidates to stay engaged and interested in potential future opportunities with the company.