More than 80% of Australian jobseekers say the online comments of former employees influence their decision to apply for a job or work for a particular organisation, according to recruiting experts Hays.
In a poll of 2,896 people, 31% said that online comments from former employees definitely influence their decision to apply or work at a particular organisation. Another 52% said they take such comments into consideration.
Just 17% said online comments from former employees do not influence their decision in any way.
“Company review sites can have a huge impact on the perceptions of future job candidates,” says Nick Deligiannis, Managing Director of Hays in Australia & New Zealand.
“Current and departing staff can share insights on a range of topics, from salaries and benefits to the quality of managers and performance expectations, which wouldn’t otherwise be available to job candidates. This has led to a huge shift in the quantity and scope of the information available – rather than the organisation controlling the message about what it’s like to work for them, current and former employees now do so, warts and all.
“This allows candidates, in mere minutes, to make far more informed decisions about whether they want to work for a particular organisation.
“For employers, this means that more effort needs to be placed on employee engagement – which must continue when an employee resigns and departs. So an offboarding process that helps former employees remain positively engaged with an organisation’s brand is now crucial.
“Offboarding should make sure a departing employee’s last few weeks with the organisation run smoothly and positively, that they are thanked for their work and made to feel valued for their contribution. You can also invite them to join an alumni program or LinkedIn group so you can keep in touch and share company news.
“With former employees potentially powerful brand ambassadors, you want to make sure they leave with a smile on their face and a willingness to talk positively about their employment experience at your organisation,” he said.
The poll was conducted on hays.com.au in April and May 2016.
Hays is the most followed recruitment agency on LinkedIn in the world. Join Hays’ growing network by following Hays Worldwide. You can also get expert advice, insights and the latest recruitment news by following Hays on Twitter@HaysAustralia and @HaysNewZealand.
Hays, the world’s leading recruiting experts in qualified, professional and skilled people.
For further information please contact Lucy Sharp, Regional Head of Marketing at Hays, on +61 2 8226 9885 or [email protected]