Today’s guest blogger is Parvathy Krishnan of Cucumber Consultants in Hyderabad, India. Cucumber Consultants has core expertise in executive recruitment, with a focus on placing C-suite executives such as CFOs and other senior leadership roles across diverse industries. Parvathy is currently serving on the NPAworldwide Board of Directors. Here, she discusses how appropriate humour can create effective communication in recruitment.
Eva Hoffman said, “There is nothing like a gleam of humor to reassure you that a fellow human being is ticking inside a strange face.”
Recruitment is serious business! But that doesn’t mean it can’t have a lighter touch. Good humour and effective communication woven well into the hiring process can make the experience fun-filled, efficient, and impactful for all the stake holders – employers, candidates, and recruitment firms. Does it matter? It sure does!
For Employers: Creating a Positive Employer Brand
Great talent looks for a ‘human’ employer. Humour makes your company seem approachable and human. A touch of cheerfulness in interviews eases tension. Candidates relax and are their true selves. Authentic discussions ensue and that helps you assess the cultural fit. After all, recruitment is as much about the candidate feeling happy about your company as it is about you finding people with the right skills.
For Candidates: Breaking the Ice and Displaying the Real Personality
Interviews are most often stressful. But when equipped with a good sense of humour, it helps the candidates to be at ease, allowing them to showcase their personality and creativity. A witty response can make a candidate leave a great impression. When humour is used appropriately, it shows high emotional intelligence and the ability to connect with others – these are traits employers often look for in a potential employee.
For Recruitment Firms: Enhancing Your Candidate’s Experience
Recruiters who balance humour with crystal clear communication create a memorable experience for candidates. This not only strengthens relationships but also helps recruiters build trust with both candidates and clients. A relaxed atmosphere makes candidates feel more at ease, helping them present their best selves. It also makes the hiring managers feel lighter and reduces the pressure of the recruitment process.
The Power of Effective Communication in Recruitment
Clear, open communication is key to a great recruitment process. It sets expectations, reduces confusion, and builds trust. As a recruiter talking to a candidate or as a hiring manager giving feedback or as a candidate responding to the recruiter or/and the hiring manager, your communication skills can make the difference. It’s important to be transparent, constructive, and respectful throughout, ensuring that all parties understand their next steps.
When communication is woven with healthy humour, it creates an environment of trust; that, in turn, encourages open dialogues. Candidates are more likely to ask questions, express concerns, and engage meaningfully, while recruiter and employers can gauge the cultural fit more easily.
Balancing Humour and Professionalism
While humour is good to have, it’s critical to strike the right balance. Keep things light and friendly but always be respectful and professional. Avoid humour that could be misunderstood or might offend someone. The goal is to ease tension and build rapport.