improving fill rates - why it’s wiser to make a job offer in-person.

Research indicates that a face-to-face closures almost always result in better fill rates. Studies show that asking someone in-person is 34 times more effective than asking over email. This means resorting to impersonal methods of communication such as email could cause you to lose out on scarce, top talent.

Here are three ways you can effectively leverage a face-to-face meeting to present your offer to potential candidates and elicit a resounding ‘yes’ from them:

Influence without seeming pushy

If it’s not possible to finish the hiring process on the same day, call them as soon as possible with a request for a face-to-face meeting. Video discussion is a great alternative for outstation candidates. In the meeting, explain the positive feedback from the team and how thrilled everybody is about the candidate joining your organisation. Candidates appreciate the importance of the role when senior management is involved in the hiring process.

Place the offer on the table, literally

Give a breakdown of the compensation package along with other benefits that were not previously discussed. According to our research, salary is the number one factor in India for a candidate when evaluating an employer. Be as transparent as possible and explain the breakup and the scope of growth. If your company is on the path of innovation, highlight the candidate’s importance and how they will make a difference to the company and community. Make it a 2 way communication process to gauge candidate’s interest. If they still seem unconvinced, talk about the non-financial benefits that you offer to tip the balance in your favour.

Negotiate terms of offer faster

Some aspects of the offer could be complex and an in-person meeting makes it easier for you to negotiate the terms quickly, rather than via email. It also enables you to ensure absolute clarity on the terms of the offer and answer any questions candidates might have. It also allows you to push for an immediate decision in case you are looking to fill an opening right away. Investing time and effort in engaging with prospective employees sets the tone of the work environment the candidate can expect once they are on board. Being connected with the candidate through the entire process – including the job offer stage - highlights the importance of the job to the candidate, boosting acceptance rates.