Getting communication right through your hiring process - Survey of teachers finds out what they want during recruitment

TIC has collected feedback from over 400 teachers working in international schools around the world about different aspects of the recruitment and application process; from the initial job advert, to post-interview contact. Here are some of the results about communication through the hiring process:

Adverts and application forms require careful content planning

• 86% of the teachers in the survey said that a clear, detailed advert listing would improve their application experience, and make them more likely to apply to a job in the first place.
• 49% wanted access to detailed information about the job and school including responsibilities of the role, salary package and benefits, and cost of living in the country where the school is located.
• Teachers want a simple application form; 20% of the teachers who responded to the survey said that some international school application forms are so long and complicated that it puts them off applying for the job. 70% want a clear explanation of how to apply to the school.

Regular communication is essential

• Communication from schools to candidates is the area where most improvement is needed.
• 92% said that poor and slow communication during the selection period was the most frustrating part of the job process.
• 91% said that good communication was important in improving the application process.

How can schools improve communication?

• There’s a strong desire by applicants to be kept informed about the progress of their application.
• 88% wanted to know whether or not they have been shortlisted for a job.
• 85% said they would value constructive feedback if unsuccessful at the interview stage.
• If there’s going to be a waiting period, especially for shortlisted candidates, they want to know when they might expect to hear further news. 
• Several respondents said they have found alternative positions because of the lack of communication from a school.

Teachers value recruitment agencies

• 65% of teachers said they feel well represented to a range of potential schools when they work with a recruitment agency.
• 91% of the teachers who responded said they select a recruitment agency that represents a specific school that they want to work with.
• All respondents said that good communication from the recruitment agency and the school gave them confidence in the potential position.

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