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Text Recruiting: Make it Simple and Repeatable

by Dave Nerz

Text recruiting is just another way to connect with top talent. Done effectively, it will create better open rates while making it easy for candidates to respond and connect. If you are going to invest in text recruiting, consider making your process simple, effective and repeatable with text templates.

For Starters

As you engage candidates, make sure you are getting mobile phone numbers and permission to text the candidate. If you are getting phone contact details from lists or other searches, make sure your first note allows for them to accept further text messages from you.

Text Template Example: Hello (candidate), I am (name and firm) and have been searching for people with experience in the area of (XYZ). I discovered your background on (site/service) and would like to connect with you about a position for (ABC) in (location). What is a best time to discuss? Are text messages from me OK or do you prefer emails or telephone calls?

For Screening

You can use text to qualify candidates quickly and effectively.

Text Template Example: Hello (candidate), the position we are discussing requires a candidate authorized to work in the US. Do you have authorization to work in the US? OR …the position we are discussing requires a 4 year degree in electrical engineering. Do you have a degree in electrical engineering?

For Referrals

If you have been referred to a candidate, text recruiting is a great way to get attention and gauge interest.

Text Template Example: Hello (candidate), I am (name and firm) and was referred to you by (name) as someone that has all the skills to fill a position I am working for a (industry name) employer. It is a great opportunity and would like to understand your potential interest. Can you give me a YES I AM INTERESTED, NO INTEREST OR MAYBE, WE NEED TO TALK? Alternatively, maybe you have someone you know that is looking for a position like this one?

Other Text Templates

There are hundreds of other ways to use text recruiting. Confirm interviews, ask basic follow-up details, and even just to touch base and nurture those candidates you want to keep active. Many candidates will prefer text recruiting to a phone call, so do not think of it as a negative but rather as an option that might be best suited to some of your contacts.

Basic Rules

  1. Make sure you have permission to continue with text.
  2. Be brief and direct about who you are and what you want. Tricky messages are not a good idea.
  3. Make sure your tone is positive and optimistic and not deceptive or controlling.
  4. Have a clear desired outcome or action. Can the candidate answer your text recruitment message with a YES, NO or MAYBE? Can they give you a date or a time and close the loop? Make sure you are not asking wide open questions, but more typically either/or types of questions.

Summary

Add text recruiting to your portfolio of options. Make text templates so you can test and refine until you find those that work best for you and your targets. Repeatability is key. Best of luck!

Share a favorite text template here if you have one…

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Tags: sms, texting, working with candidates | Posted in: Recruiting Resources

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