Why Use Text Messaging for Recruiting?

Text messages boost open rates exceeding 90%, ensuring your message reaches the candidate directly. That’s because nearly everyone carries their phone, making texts readily accessible and convenient for candidates to respond to on their own time.

When you’re trying to land a candidate for hire, a well-crafted text can feel more personal than an email, fostering a positive first impression. And iZigg’s SMS platform allows two-way texting, which facilitates a more conversational approach to communication. Text is a more comfortable way to communicate for younger hires, enabling quick back-and-forth exchanges. Texting keeps candidates engaged throughout the hiring process, reducing drop-off rates.

10 Great Text Message Examples

Not sure where to start? Let’s look at some recruiting text message templates that your HR team can adapt for different stages of the recruiting and hiring process:

• Initial Contact: Hi [Candidate Name], This is [Your Name] from [Company Name]. We saw your resume for the [Job Title] position and think you’d be a great fit. Are you interested in learning more? Reply “YES” for details.

• Interview Invitation: Hi [Candidate Name], This is [Your Name] from [Company Name]. We’d like to invite you for an interview for the [Job Title] position on [Date] at [Time]. Please reply “YES” to confirm or suggest an alternate time.

• Interview Reminder: Just a friendly reminder, your interview for the [Job Title] position is tomorrow [Date] at [Time]. We look forward to meeting you!

• Application Status Update: Hi [Candidate Name], Thank you for your interest in the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. We’ve received many applications and are currently reviewing them. We’ll be in touch soon with the next steps.

• Offer Notification: Hi [Candidate Name], We’re thrilled to offer you the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]! Please reply “YES” to accept or let us know if you have any questions.

• Post-Interview Follow-Up: Hi [Candidate Name], Thanks for taking the time to interview for the [Job Title] position. We enjoyed learning more about you! We’ll be in touch soon with our decision.

• Candidate Engagement: Hi [Candidate Name], Hope you’re doing well! We’re hosting a [Company Event] on [Date]. It’s a great chance to learn more about [Company] culture. Would you be interested in attending?

• Feedback Request: Hi [Candidate Name], Thanks for interviewing for the [Job Title] position at [Company Name]. We’d appreciate your feedback on your interview experience. Reply “YES” to complete a quick survey.

• Rescheduling Request: Hi [Candidate Name], Unfortunately, our interview scheduled for [Date] needs to be rescheduled. Would [New Date] at [New Time] work for you?

• Re-Engaging Past Applicants: Hi [Candidate Name], We have a new opening for a [New Job Title] position at [Company Name]. Your skills and experience seem like a great fit. Are you open to learning more?

Best Practices for Recruiters

While texting can be a powerful tool, it shouldn’t be your only channel for communication during the recruitment process. Here’s how to integrate texting effectively with your existing hiring practices:

• Combine with Email: Use texts for quick updates, interview confirmations, and initial outreach. Follow up with emails for detailed information on job descriptions, application processes, and company culture.

• Leverage Your Careers Page: Include a clear call to action on your careers page encouraging candidates to opt-in for text communication.

• Social Media Integration: Promote your texting recruitment strategy on social media platforms frequented by your target demographics.

• Internal Communication: Encourage hiring managers and recruiters to use texting for quick updates and candidate engagement throughout the process.

• Include a Call to Action: Encourage the candidate to take the next step, whether it’s replying to learn more, scheduling an interview, or visiting your careers page.

What Does Success Look Like? Track It!

As mobile phones increasingly replace home computers, we expect to see text messaging become more and more popular in the recruitment process. By incorporating SMS messaging into your recruiting strategy, you can:

• Track Response Rates: Monitor how many candidates respond to your texts to gauge their effectiveness.

• Gather Feedback: Ask candidates for feedback on their text communication experience to refine your approach.

• Reach a wider pool of talent: Texting allows you to connect with a generation comfortable with mobile communication.

• Enhance candidate experience: Quick updates and two-way communication create a more positive experience for candidates.

• Increase efficiency: Texting streamlines communication, saving time for both recruiters and candidates.

• Improve hiring speed: Faster communication allows you to fill open positions quickly.

Texting is a powerful tool, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle. By implementing best practices, using a multi-channel approach, and staying abreast of new technologies, you can leverage texting to attract and hire top talent in today’s competitive job market. Choosing the right texting software for recruiting is crucial to obtain maximum results on your text campaigns. 

Still Have Questions?

Follow the practices above to improve client engagement and watch satisfaction rates soar! And check out our other articles for more advice on specific industries and use cases.