InterviewQ: What should an employer tell a candidate who is not selected for a position?

A:  Inform internal candidates in person.  Give them actionable items on which to improve.  How to inform external candidates can be more challenging.

How an organization handles it’s applicants is often perceived as a reflection of how it treats its employees.  Negative applicant experience could turn off both future applicants and customers.  That is why it is important for employers to respond in a professional manner to all applicants.  Employers should always thank candidates for applying and do so in a timely manner.  Candidates may be pursuing opportunities with several employers.  Awaiting closure with your organization may cost them another viable position.  In terms of exactly what to say, ESC typically advises to keep it simple and avoid detailed explanations.

For more on on this topic, check out Trends on Talent Acquisition.