It can be daunting trying to navigate the gaps between each stage of the recruitment process, whether you are a client or a candidate! That’s why our Horticulture team wanted to break down the key stages of our recruitment process, providing some helpful tips and typical timeframes along the way. We understand that each hiring process differs slightly, so there may be times where stages could be extended due to a variety of circumstances such as holiday and training, or indeed these stages could be shortened! See below our roadmap, highlighting the stages from job posting and cv collection, to interviews, offering and acceptance.
1. Job Posting & CV Collection (2 Weeks)
Once we’ve crafted a job posting tailored to the role and company, we distribute it across the right platforms (specialist and generalist). This is done as soon as we are able to take a thorough job brief. It usually takes one to two weeks to collate a strong pool of applications. The time frame allows for proper exposure to active passive job seekers.
During this time we will be contacting our internal network, discussing the role with suitable candidates and gaining permission from candidates to submit their applications.
We carefully review CVs and conduct in-depth screening calls to evaluate technical expertise and cultural fit. This phase can take up to a week, depending on the number of applicants and the complexity of the role.
Factors influencing this stage:
- Niche roles or remote locations may take longer to attract candidates.
- Broader roles might see an influx of CVs within days.
- Candidate's timeframes, it may take a few days to get a call booked with a candidate.
2. Interview Booking & Preparation (1 Week)
Once we have a shortlist, we make introductions to gather initial feedback. We coordinate interviews with the employer and candidates. Scheduling can be a logistical challenge, especially when dealing with busy calendars, but we aim to finalise dates within a week.
We also use this time to prepare candidates, equipping them with insights about the company and role to help them perform at their best.
At this point, we also obtain 2 references from the candidates.
Potential delays:
Scheduling conflicts can stretch this phase, but we always encourage flexibility on both sides to keep things moving.
3. Interviews (2-3 Weeks)
The interview stage typically involves multiple rounds. Initial interviews often happen within a week, and we look to get feedback from both candidates and employers within 24 hours. However, depending on the amount of candidates to interview, and employers needing time to review each candidate, it can take up to 10 days to organise the next steps.
Candidates also need as much notice as possible for a site visit, which is typically second stage.
Quick wins:
For urgent roles, we recommend consolidating interviews into fewer stages and lengthier site visits, which can shave a week off the timeline.
4. Feedback (2-3 Days)
After final interviews, we aim to collect and deliver feedback within 48 hours. Timely feedback is critical to maintaining engagement with top candidates and keeping the process on track. Whilst it can take longer than 48 hours to make a decision, being able to give feedback quickly and update candidates on realistic timelines helps immensely.
Challenge:
Employers with internal decision-making processes might take longer, but we always stress the importance of prompt communication and respect for the candidate's journey.
5. Offer & Acceptance (1 Week)
When it’s time to make an offer, we facilitate presenting the offer, negotiations and final agreements. This process can be wrapped up in a few days if both parties are aligned, though some negotiations may extend this phase to a week.
Once the candidate accepts, we assist with setting a start date and getting notices handed in. We provide support every step of the way.
Please get in touch with the team, whether you are a client or a candidate, to discuss how we can help!
01780 480 530 | emily@morepeople.co.uk | sarah@morepeople.co.uk | kieran@morepeople.co.uk
