The practice of rejecting job candidates via live video calls has become a controversial topic. Although some hiring managers believe this method to be more thoughtful and personal, the experiences of many job seekers suggest otherwise. Receiving a rejection in a live video call can be emotionally challenging and overwhelming, as candidates must not only process the news but also maintain composure and professionalism on camera.
One job seeker described feeling unprepared and shocked when the hiring manager delivered the rejection during a scheduled video call, leaving little room for the candidate to express their emotions or process the news. Several others shared similar experiences, highlighting how the use of video calls for rejections can be disheartening and even feel cruel.
Phone rejections, while perhaps less visually demanding, present comparable challenges. Candidates often feel blindsided when they receive a phone call, expecting positive news, only to be met with disappointment. This approach can lead to candidates feeling pressured to mask their disappointment and respond positively, despite the difficult news.
In worst-case scenarios, candidates have been summoned to the employer's office, only to be rejected in person, causing additional time and financial investment. Such experiences underscore the need for more considerate and respectful rejection practices.
A suggested alternative approach is to initially communicate the rejection via email and then offer a follow-up phone call for feedback, should the candidate desire it. This approach allows candidates to process the news privately and seek further insight at their own discretion. Ultimately, the prevailing sentiment is that rejections, while never easy, do not need to be excessively personal. Providing the news considerately and allowing candidates the space to absorb and respond to it in their own time is crucial in maintaining respect and kindness throughout the hiring process.