Catch Gen Z: Are Application Forms Scaring Off Candidates?
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Application forms may be one of the most critical stages in the job application process for the new generation of candidates. Today, the expectations of young professionals are rapidly changing, and keeping up with this change is the key to attracting talent. As part of Generation Z (born between 1997 and 2012, growing up immersed in technology, and active in the digital world), I know all too well how time-consuming and tedious application forms can be. Therefore, I would like to highlight a few important points to improve the candidate experience and make the application process more efficient.
1. Why Is Simplicity in Application Forms Important?
Keeping application forms simple and clear has become one of the most important aspects that companies need to focus on to improve the candidate experience today. When candidates encounter long and complex forms filled with intricate details, it not only leads to wasted time but can also significantly decrease their interest in your company. This process is especially critical for tech-savvy candidates from Gen Z and the millennial generation, who expect quick solutions.
According to research, a lengthy application form can lead to approximately 60% of candidates abandoning the process before completion.
This situation leads to the loss of qualified candidates, narrowing the talent pool for companies. Particularly, an excess of requested information or repetitive questions undermines candidates' trust in the process. Therefore, designing application forms to be as short as possible while containing only the necessary information not only makes it easier for candidates to complete the process but also increases their interest in your company.
Creating simple, clear, and user-friendly application forms to improve the candidate experience can help companies attract talented individuals. This step will be a time-saving strategy not only for candidates but also for the teams managing the recruitment process.
2. Are Mobile-Friendly Forms a Necessity for Candidate Experience?
Making application forms mobile-friendly has become an indispensable aspect of modern recruitment processes. Particularly, Gen Z tends to prefer using mobile devices over desktop computers when applying for jobs.
According to LinkedIn data, 70% of job applications are submitted via mobile devices. This clearly indicates that companies need to focus on mobile compatibility to improve the candidate experience.
Being able to complete forms within a few minutes is a significant advantage, especially for candidates who work in fast-paced environments or are applying from different locations. It's important to remember that users' attention spans are much shorter on mobile devices, so speed and efficiency in the process should be prioritized.
Paying attention to these types of details strengthens the company's image in the eyes of candidates. An optimized experience for candidates wishing to apply via mobile devices allows them to complete the process easily and smoothly.
3. How to Build Connections with Companies?
Using a friendly tone and establishing a personal connection with candidates is one of the key components of a successful hiring process. Application forms should not just be seen as a tool for gathering information from candidates; they should also be viewed as a platform that reflects your company culture.
Candidates should be able to envision themselves as part of the company they are applying to, rather than just seeing themselves as "form fillers" throughout the application process. At this point, the language and approach of the form make a significant difference.
Designing a form that reflects your company's values and way of doing business allows you to leave a strong impression during the candidate's first contact with you. For instance, instead of using a mundane and formal tone, it’s important to adopt a warm and friendly tone where the candidate feels comfortable.
Instead of cliché questions like, "Why did you apply for this position?" you might ask more creative and personal questions like, "What do you hope to achieve in your career journey with us?" or "What excites you most about this position?" Such questions can help candidates express themselves better. They allow you to understand not only the candidates' professional qualifications but also their motivations and personal values.
Additionally, you can observe how the company approaches candidates through the application form. Conveying that your company values candidates and cares about their individual perspectives by using a sincere tone creates a positive impact on candidates. Remember, candidates apply not only for a position but also for the culture and environment of the company. When candidates feel comfortable filling out the form, they are likely to have a more positive experience throughout the process.
4. What Did I Do Right/Wrong?
Finally, effectively utilizing feedback mechanisms should be considered one of the cornerstones of a successful hiring process. Providing feedback to candidates at the end of the application process is crucial for understanding how they felt throughout the process and for reinforcing their trust in your company. Candidates want to feel valued not just by receiving a response after completing their applications but also by understanding the overall process. Therefore, actively implementing feedback mechanisms is one of the simplest and most effective steps to improve the candidate experience. Research shows that a significant majority of candidates, especially generations like Gen Z that expect quick responses and transparent communication, look for feedback after their application processes.
Surveys indicate that 75% of candidates expect to receive feedback following their applications.
However, despite this statistic, many companies fail to provide timely feedback or do not provide any at all. This simple yet effective step can make the process more transparent and open for both positive and negative application outcomes. Receiving feedback presents a significant opportunity not only for candidates but also for companies, as it allows you to identify shortcomings in the application process and improve these processes in the future.
In this context, understanding why Gen Z expects feedback is also a critical point. Gen Z is a generation that has grown up intertwined with technology, with expectations for instant feedback and transparency. Accustomed to rapid information flow, this generation expects the same quick and open communication in job application processes. Remaining in uncertainty for a long time after applying can diminish their interest in your company.
5. The Recruitment Process from Gen Z's Perspective
From my own experience, filling out lengthy application forms can be quite exhausting. Application processes that require me to write a cover letter and are filled with overly long questions often decrease my motivation. Companies that don’t get back to me completely lose their appeal. Frankly, as a Gen Z, I often abandon my application in such situations. The application process itself reveals a lot about the company culture; the simpler and more user-friendly the process, the better.
In short, optimizing application forms for the new generation of candidates not only expands your talent pool but also helps create a positive brand perception. By focusing on simplicity, mobile compatibility, friendly communication, and feedback mechanisms, you can enhance the candidate experience and attract the interest of the new generation.
Wishing you all the best for successful hiring,
Irem from the Hiroo team 🌟
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