May Recruitment: When Good Candidates Say No
May Recruitment: When Good Candidates Say No
As we move through the summer term, a different recruitment challenge starts to surface. Applications come through, processes are moving forward, shortlists look strong…and then the preferred candidate declines.
It’s happening more often and while it can feel frustrating, it’s rarely random. There are usually a few clear reasons behind it.
Candidates have more choice than you think
Strong Finance, HR, IT and Operations professionals aren’t just interviewing with one school. Even if they’re not actively job hunting, once they enter the market, options appear quickly. What feels like a secure offer from one school is often one of several being considered.
The process is part of the decision
From a candidate’s perspective, how a school recruits says a lot about how it operates. Delays, unclear communication, or disjointed interview stages create doubt . Conversely, a process that feels organised, purposeful and respectful builds confidence.
Counter-offers are back (if they ever went away!)
Given the time and effort to recruit, it’s not surprising that candidates are receiving unexpected counter offers to stay. Whether it’s improved flexibility, salary adjustments or a myriad of promises, they can feel flattering. Establishing a persons reason for job hunting is key.
Practicalities matter more than expected
Commutes, term-time flexibility, working patterns, line management responsibilities….these details are ad important as the role and salary. If they’re not fully understood early on, they can become sticking points later, sometimes at the very end.
So what makes a difference?
The schools that convert well at this stage tend to do a few things consistently:
- They maintain momentum throughout the process
- They are clear and open about the role, expectations and environment
- They keep communication human, not just transactional
- They understand what matters to the individual in front of them, not just the role they need to fill
