With 2024 hitting the mid-year mark, there are many still hustling daily to secure an interview and find that next perfect role.
The lack of opportunities that are available on job boards is hard but when you’re out there networking, connecting, meeting people, coffees and interviewing, you end up with interview fatigue.
Interview fatigue is real. Some companies are putting candidates through a 2-4 round process to just have a rejection email after three weeks of interviewing. This takes a toll on you mentally as well as emotionally as the process seems like a done deal only to find out that the company has chosen another candidate in their shortlist.
The same goes for the Hiring Managers and Talent Acquisitions Managers that are in endless rounds of interviews to only be back at square one when that candidate pulls out at offer.
It's important to acknowledge and address this interview fatigue to maintain your well-being and stay motivated.
Marco Villella, Head of Talent ANZ at Havas, says hiring managers are often putting candidates through multiple rounds of interviews as they are not confident in making the right decision.
"It is important to understand that it only takes one candidate to fill a role, and the more candidates that enter the interview process, the harder the decision can become," says Villella.
Villella says this makes for a poor candidate experience, where they are often left waiting for a decision, simply because the hiring manager is waiting for the perfect candidate to come along.
"As a hiring manager, it’s important to understand what critical craft skills and soft skills are needed, and what can be taught," says Villella.
"What can be taught are the opportunities for development that keep candidates engaged once they start their journey with your organisation. Candidates should have 20-30% of growth in a role. If they are already operating at 100%, they will become disengaged and will be left asking, what is next?"
Natalie Field, People & Culture Director from 303 MullenLowe, says Interview fatigue isn't just about tallying up the number of interviews you’ve had - it's about the exhaustive energy and focus needed from both sides, to find the right fit, which can be immensely draining and stressful.
"At 303ML, we take a collaborative approach to recruitment, recognizing that finding the right candidate is a collective responsibility," she says.
"We understand that the process can be demanding not only for us but also for the candidates. Therefore, we're mindful of their time and energy throughout. From reviewing CVs to conducting interviews and making final decisions, we work together as a team.
"Embracing different perspectives and a diverse range of viewpoints helps us select candidates who align with our team culture while respecting everyone's investment in the process."
Lara Hewitt, Executive Director, People & Culture at R/GA, says it’s tough out there at the moment.
"Whilst interview fatigue is real, I would encourage candidates to view 2-4 rounds as their opportunity to learn as much as possible about the business, including their culture and values, how they work, growth opportunities and expectations on the role. From this they will get an understanding if the business is right for them and their growth goals.
"Businesses must ensure that they are meeting a variety of diverse candidates and being mindful that unconscious bias doesn’t creep in. This does mean the overall process can take more time but it’s the job of the recruitment team to ensure candidates are kept up to date and engaged throughout the process and that an unsuccessful application is delivered in a human way with meaningful feedback."
Angela Smith, CEO of Affinity, says candidate and employer interview fatigue is absolutely real.
"But just as there’s a responsibility for the employer to exhibit common sense and empathy for candidates going through their hiring process, there’s a commensurate need for candidates to show respect for the process too," she says.
"Given we’re all business professionals, all players should come to the table with appropriate candour and openness. If you’ve been headhunted and not sure about making a move, say so. If you have strong opinions about what the engagement with your next employer looks like, say so – whether that’s working from home, the shape and size of your remuneration and so on.
"After all, this is all about finding the right fit for all parties. It’s not a great look to start negotiating after several conversations about the terms of your employment and you have the letter of offer in your hand. Not only is this unlikely to reflect well on you as a new team member, it can end up with the offer being pulled. Which is a huge set back in terms of time and opportunity cost to the employer, other candidates and your reputation.
"We all suffer interview fatigue, even more so when we have to re-set the entire process after weeks of already recruiting for that same role."
Here are a few strategies to help manage and overcome interview fatigue:
- Set Realistic Expectations: Understand that the job search process can be lengthy and challenging. Setting realistic expectations can help you stay grounded and reduce frustration.
- Take Breaks: Allow yourself to take breaks between interviews and job applications. Use this time to recharge, engage in hobbies, or spend time with loved ones.
- Stay Organised: Keep track of your applications, interview schedules, and follow-ups. Staying organised can help you feel more in control and reduce stress.
- Seek Support: Talk to friends, family, or a career coach about your experiences. Sharing your feelings can provide emotional relief and valuable insights.
- Focus on Self-Care: Prioritise activities that promote your mental and physical health, such as exercise, meditation, or a good night's sleep.
- Learn and Adapt: After each interview, reflect on what went well and what could be improved. Continuous learning can boost your confidence and improve your performance in future interviews.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Recognise and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. Each step forward is progress, even if it's not a job offer yet.
- Remember, finding the right job or candidate is not just about securing any position but finding a role/candidate that aligns with your values, skills, and career goals.
- Stay positive, be persistent, and take care of yourself during the journey, don’t get tired pressing that apply now button.
Have something to say on this? Share your views in the comments section below. Or if you have a news story or tip-off, drop us a line at adnews@yaffa.com.au
Sign up to the AdNews newsletter, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for breaking stories and campaigns throughout the day.