Large corporations have extensive teams to manage the hiring process, and they even use AI systems to streamline the hundreds of applications they receive. However, a small business does not have these same resources at hand. So, what tips and tricks are available to help streamline the applicant review process? Our HR experts have compiled a few of their favorites below:

Use A Secret Code

Your job post has lots of great details in it that you need a potential candidate to read. To make sure that a candidate is truly reading everything and paying attention to the details, you can ask them to include a secret code within their application materials. For example, in the middle of the required skills section you can have a bullet point that states, “At the top of your cover letter, use the word ‘applesauce’ so we know you read this!”

Asking candidates to use this secret code right at the beginning of their cover letter will easily help you distinguish who should continue or who should not. A secret code can be a fun way to get candidates more involved in the process too. Or, you can do something a little more standard and ask candidates to email a quick video of themselves detailing why they are interested in the position while you review their application materials. This too can be woven into the job post to ensure candidates have read it. Then, if a video is not sent you can move onto other applicants.

Don’t Be Afraid To Open And Close Applications

If you have a small team, then you might only be able to get through a few applications each day. That’s okay! Don’t be afraid to open and close your job post as needed so that your team can sift through everyone who has reached out. Another method of coping with this is to set a date when the application closes and letting candidates know they have a deadline to apply. That way your team can be prepared to handle sifting through applications on a specific calendar date. If you do not find a good fit, you can always post the position again.

Reach Out To Candidates

After receiving an application, send out an automatic notification to the candidate. This allows them to feel secure, knowing you received their information. You can also use this time to share more information with them. Many companies are now receiving calls, emails, etc. as candidates reach out to follow up on applications. Most of the time, these extra contact points are not welcome. Particularly in the case of small businesses, this can take up even more resources. An automatic message can also let candidates know how they can contact you if they want (and if you want!), when they can expect to hear back, etc. While you as a business want an employee that communicates well, job seekers want the same thing during the application process.

Does your team have hiring and onboarding down to a science? Share your tips with fellow small business owners!