A survey by StandOut CV looks at all the factors that deter applicants during the hiring process – identifying key issues in job advertisements, interview practices, and workplace culture that can discourage prospective candidates.
Job postings offering only the minimum annual leave entitlement top the list of applicant grievances, with 65.5 percent of respondents indicating this would deter them from applying. Mandatory participation on LinkedIn or other social media platforms to promote the company is another big turnoff, with 64.6 percent of respondents finding this requirement off-putting.
Transparency in job advertisements is also crucial. Over 63.8 percent of those surveyed said they would avoid roles where salary information is not included, emphasising the value of clarity in job listings.
Off-Putting Language and Attitudes
Certain buzzwords and phrases commonly used in job ads are more likely to alienate than inspire candidates. Terms linked to “hustle culture” rank among the most disliked, with “winner’s mindset” deterring 36.7 percent of respondents, followed by “hustle” at 36.3 percent and “work hard play hard” at 35.4 percent.
The survey also noted the most off-putting behaviours during in-person interviews. Chief among these is poor personal hygiene, with 75 percent of respondents indicating that body odour from an interviewer would sour their impression of the company. Group interviews, where multiple candidates are assessed simultaneously, are also unpopular, with 70.2 percent of participants listing them as a major deterrent. Name-related mishaps, such as being called the wrong name (68.1 percent) or having one’s name shortened (63.3 percent), also rank as significant frustrations.
Virtual interviews come with their own set of challenges. The top grievance reported by 50.7 percent of respondents is when an interviewer speaks to someone off-camera during the interview. Other notable faux pas include interviewers leaving their cameras off (48.1 percent) or having family members in the background (43.3 percent). About half of applicants (53.2%) would retract their application after three (30.2%) or four interview rounds (23.0%).
What Candidates Want in a Job Advert
Careers expert and Director of StandOut CV, Andrew Fennell, said, “Our findings highlight the importance of offering more than what is legally required of you as an employer to attract top talent. Potential candidates are being lost down to lacklustre employee benefits and standard job ads. The fact that offering the minimum annual leave allowance was shown to be the biggest job advert red flag for 65.5% shows this.”
So, what do candidates want to see in a job advert? Most prioritise clear qualification requirements, with 61.7 percent indicating this as the most critical information in a job advertisement. Information on the working hours and job benefits follow closely, with 60.5 percent and 56.1 percent respectively considering these details essential. Just over half (52.1%) mostly want to see a clear job title in the advert, with 45.7 percent saying they prioritise clear information when it comes to experience required. Annual leave allowance is important for 35.7 percent of applicants.
Competitive benefits, clear job descriptions, and appropriate interview etiquette can significantly impact the quality and quantity of applications. Employers who address these concerns are more likely to attract – retain – top talent.
Alessandra Pacelli is a journalist and author contributing to HRreview, where she covers topics including labour market trends, employment costs, and workplace issues.
- Alessandra Pacelli
- Alessandra Pacelli
- Alessandra Pacelli
- Alessandra Pacelli
