The interview process is an opportunity. You have the chance not just to get to know the candidate but also to forge a relationship with them. However, you can only do that through proper communication, including before, during, and after the meeting.  

Without strong communication, the candidate experience suffers. As a result, you may miss out on a great truck driver simply because you weren’t reaching out often enough or providing the right kind of information. If you want to make sure your communication is on point, here’s how you need to handle it at every stage.  

Communication Methods  

Most people have access to several communication methods. Generally, job-related conversations tend to be handled via email. However, you may want to find out from candidates if they prefer a different approach.  

For example, a job seeker might not be able to check their personal email during the day because they are working. However, they may be able to review text messages on their breaks, so they might prefer remaining in touch using that method.  

The goal is to find an approach that works for you both. That way, there are no unnecessary delays that could slow the hiring process.  

Pre-Interview Communication  

Once you’ve identified a great truck driving candidate that you’d like to interview, make contact quickly. Let them know that you’re impressed with their application and would like an opportunity to learn more, presenting them with interview times.  

After establishing when that candidate will interview, don’t pause the dialog. Instead, send additional details that will make the interview experience easier for the driver to navigate.  

For example, let them know where they can park, how to reach your office (or reception), and whether they need to bring any documents or identification, at a minimum. If you’d like, you could also include details about the workplace’s dress code, allowing them to adjust their attire choices accordingly.  

Finally, make sure the candidate knows they can reach out if they have questions before the meeting. Provide them with contact details for the methods you want to make available, ensuring they can get in touch should the need arise.  

During the Interview Communication  

While the bulk of the interview will involve you asking the candidate questions, you also want to have key pieces of information ready to share. Once the interview starts to wrap up, give the job seeker an overview of the hiring process timeline. Let them know about any next steps, both on your end and theirs, as well as a date when you intend to make a decision.  

Additionally, express your appreciation for their participation in the process. Thanking a candidate is respectful and professional. Plus, it helps build a stronger bond, something that can work in your favor if you have an exceptional candidate in your midst and want to keep them engaged.  

Post-Interview Communication  

When the interview is over, continue to make communication a priority. If you set a deadline for a decision, make sure to reach out on or before that date. You can extend a job offer then, let them know that you’ve selected another candidate, or, if you need more time, let them know that the timeline has been extended.  

The idea is to keep the candidate informed at every stage. That way, they know what to expect as the hiring process progresses.  

If you do extend an offer, also be transparent about any next steps. Let them know about the onboarding process or any required training that will occur when the first start. Tell them if there’s anything they need to bring on day one. Additionally, consider sharing the employee handbook, allowing them to learn about the company’s standards.  

Ultimately, by following the tips above, you can make sure your communication is on target.  

Are You Looking to Hire The Right Driver for Your Fleet? 

If you’d like to find out more, the team at PTS® can help. Contact us today to get the conversation started.