The 1% Moves That Help You Land Top Talent

When it comes to hiring, the little things can make a big difference. It’s not just about the job title or salary, it’s about creating an experience that makes the candidate want to say yes.

Just before Christmas, we worked with a senior candidate who had two strong job offers. They were on the fence about which one to take, but one agency stood out because they nailed a few small, thoughtful touches that had a huge impact.

Here’s what they did:

• A Pre-Interview Message: Before the interview, they sent a friendly message saying, “We’re looking forward to meeting you.” This simple gesture made the candidate feel welcome and set the tone for the whole process.
• A Warm Welcome: When the candidate walked in, they were greeted with coffee and croissants. It didn’t cost much but made the candidate feel at ease and appreciated from the moment they arrived.
• A Genuine Follow-Up: After the interview, they sent an email thanking the candidate for their time and reminding them to take their time making a decision. It wasn’t pushy, it was supportive and respectful.

Total cost? $10.

Impact? They landed an amazing Account Director who was considering another agency.

Why Candidate Experience Matters More Than Ever

We talk a lot about customer experience (CX), but how often do we consider candidate experience? If you’re not landing the best talent, the problem may not be with your offer, it could be with how you’re making candidates feel throughout the hiring process.

Ask yourself:

• Are you making candidates feel welcomed and valued from the very beginning?
• Are you going the extra mile with small touches that show you care?
• Or are you sticking to the same old process without thinking about how the candidate experiences it?

It’s easy to overlook the importance of candidate experience, but trust us: these small, thoughtful gestures make a huge difference when it comes to attracting and retaining top talent.

More 1% Moves That Can Help You Land Great Candidates

Want to stand out in a crowded job market? Here are a few more 1% moves that can make a big difference:

• Personalise the Interview: Before the interview, send a message that highlights something specific from the candidate’s resume or LinkedIn profile. This shows you’ve done your homework and you’re genuinely interested.
• Give Candidates a Voice: Ask, “Is there anything we haven’t covered that you’d like to ask or know?” This simple question helps candidates feel heard and valued, making the experience more personal.
• Leave a Memorable Takeaway: After the interview, send a small gift like a branded notebook, or a book related to the industry. It’s a thoughtful gesture that leaves a lasting impression.
• Introduce the Team: If possible, arrange a casual coffee or a brief meet-and-greet with potential colleagues. People don’t just join companies—they join teams, and this lets candidates see the company culture firsthand.
• A Thoughtful Follow-Up: After the interview, send a personalised follow-up. A quick message from a future manager or team member sharing why they’d love to work with the candidate can tip the scales in your favour.

These small, simple steps can completely change the way a candidate feels about joining your team. It’s all about showing them they’re not just another name on a list, they’re someone you value and want to work with.

If you need help attracting the best talent and making sure they get the 1% effort they deserve, reach out to us at hello@creativenatives.com.au. We’re here to help make your hiring process even better!