Texting may still seem to be fairly casual. However, more recruiters are using text messages to communicate with candidates. While it may take a little getting used to, you should always text them back to avoid ghosting them. Here are a few tips for texting recruiters and maintaining professional relationships in this new era.
How Communication is Shifting
Not long ago, the most professional way to communicate with potential employers or recruiters was by email. While that’s still a good way to communicate in some cases, more hiring managers and recruiters are shifting to texting for main communication. This is because, in many cases, speed is a factor in filling positions with an employer, and texting is the preferred method of communication for most people between the ages of 18 and 44.
Recruiters are also often working other jobs. So, texting is an easy way to get in touch with potential candidates. Not to mention, text messages have a better open rate of about 95%, making communication efforts more successful. Emails, by contrast, are only opened about 20% of the time. Using text messaging can also feel more personal, which is always a plus for recruiters.
Why You Should Always Text Your Recruiter Back
Communication methods are shifting in recruiting. Even if you aren’t quite comfortable with texting back, you shouldn’t ignore the text or ghost the recruiter. You don’t want to burn any bridges when it comes to your career. Instead, reach out and establish what your preferred method of communication is. If you’d rather chat on the phone or via email, they will be able to accommodate you.
The worst thing you can do is just ignore the text from your recruiter. This gives them the impression that you would do the same to an employer, making it less likely that they’d recommend you for any positions. Even if you have already landed another job, tell them that. They will keep your information on file in case something else fitting your experience comes up. You won’t miss out on any opportunities because you didn’t answer a text.
Professional Texting Etiquette
So, how do you text a recruiter and still come across as a professional? Here are a few tips for texting etiquette.
- Don’t initiate contact via text. If you talk to a recruiter via text, they should be the one to initiate the conversation. Because it is still a casual form of communication, you want the recruiter to make that decision.
- Maintain a professional tone. Even though it is more casual, you want to remain professional.
- Use business standards. Don’t use slang, abbreviations, or emojis. Spell everything out as you would in an email or more traditional communication.
- Be ready to respond. You don’t want to leave the recruiter hanging for days. Respond to texts within a reasonable amount of time.
- Try to be as concise as possible. No one wants to read a novel-length text message. Be as short as possible and, if more needs to be discussed, ask to schedule a phone call.
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