At Abacus Employment Services, we pride ourselves on truly understanding what our candidates need. Recently, we spoke to some of the job seekers we've supported, here’s what they had to say:
1. A Recruiter Who Listens
One of the biggest things candidates emphasised was the importance of feeling heard. They want recruiters who take the time to understand their personal and professional needs—whether that’s the type of work they’re looking for or the hours they want. Candidates appreciate recruiters who ask questions, listen to their answers, and keep those details in mind when matching them with potential roles.
2. Consistent Communication and Updates
Searching for a job can be a stressful experience, and nothing makes it worse than being left in the dark. Candidates told us that they value recruiters who stay in touch, keep them updated, and let them know where they stand throughout the hiring process. But it doesn’t stop there—candidates also appreciate when recruiters check in even after they’ve started a new role. Knowing someone is there to support them as they settle in makes a big difference.
3. A Personal, Face-to-Face Approach
While technology has made remote interviews and virtual meetings easier, there’s something special about face-to-face interactions. Candidates appreciate when recruiters take the time to meet in person to get to know them better. This approach not only builds trust but also allows recruiters to have a more personal understanding of the candidate's strengths and preferences. And if an in-person meeting isn’t possible, using tools like Teams for video meetings can be used as a secondary option.
4. Informed and Supportive Interview Preparation
Heading into an interview can be daunting, especially if you’re not fully informed about the role or the company. Candidates want recruiters who go the extra mile to ensure they’re well-prepared and understand what the client is looking for. This includes providing insights into the company culture, expectations for the role, and advice on how to make a great impression.
5. Two-Way Feedback
Candidates want to know that their voice matters. They appreciate recruiters who not only gather feedback from the employer but also take the time to listen to and share their feedback with the client. This two-way communication can help clients understand the candidate’s perspective on the hiring process and role, ultimately leading to a better fit for both parties.
6. Always Giving Constructive Feedback
For candidates, receiving feedback—good or bad—is crucial to growth. They look for recruiters who provide honest and constructive feedback after interviews. This information can help them improve their interview techniques or highlight areas they can work on, which is invaluable for those who are actively looking to build their skills and career prospects.
7. Support Beyond the Start Date
The relationship between a candidate and recruiter shouldn’t end on the first day of work. Candidates told us they appreciate recruiters who continue to check in throughout their probationary period, offering guidance and support as they settle into their new role. It makes them feel valued and supported, especially if they face any challenges in their early days. It’s also a great opportunity to celebrate milestones like passing probation.
At Abacus, these aren’t just things we aim to do—they’re core values that we live by every day. Our candidates’ feedback aligns with our mission to provide a recruitment experience that is supportive, transparent, and genuinely tailored to each individual. Whether you’re stepping into the fast-paced world of warehousing, starting a new role in distribution, or joining the hospitality and commercial industries, we’re here to make sure you feel valued, prepared, and supported every step of the way.
So, if you’re looking for a recruitment agency that truly listens, stays connected, and is committed to your long-term success, we’d love to work with you. At Abacus, we’re not just about filling roles—we’re about building lasting careers.