What does a good recruiting experience look like?

This question has come up with clients several times recently – and I learn a lot about what’s actually happening in hiring processes from our clients. I talked about this topic in two of our Take 15 Career Q&A sessions on Facebook Live, and you can view the videos here for more: March 12 and May 7.

Not all employers see it this way, but hiring is a two-way street. As the options for job seekers expand with new positions and even new businesses opening, companies are scrutinized by candidates. Paying attention to how an employer conducts the hiring process could mean the difference between making the right or wrong choice if you receive an offer.

You should be treated well at every step of the recruiting process. That’s the bottom line. I’m sure some of you are laughing because I also understand how poor companies can treat candidates. What does that say about a company? If they treat incoming candidates who they are trying to attract to work there poorly, how do they treat employees?

There are at least six places in the application and hiring process to pay attention to (and something companies should also be aware of, so make sure you’re also putting your best foot forward through these steps). This can help you figure out what the company culture and people are really like.

Take stock of how each of these steps is handled by the company and its employees:

• Response to your application

• Process of setting up and/or rescheduling interviews

• Interviews

• Follow-up after the interview

• Offer

• If you have follow-up questions after you receive an offer, how do they respond?

There's no one answer to what a good recruiting experience looks like, but you should take stock at each of these steps and assess the culture for yourself. If you haven't been treated well, consider the offer carefully before making a decision.