Why is it critical to solicit feedback from unsuccessful or rejected candidates?

• A. To adjust job descriptions.
• B. Because their experience impacts the Employer Brand; negative online reviews deter future top talent.
• C. To reduce cost per hire.
• D. To improve onboarding time.

Answer: (B)

Soliciting feedback from unsuccessful candidates centers on the candidate experience and its effect on the employer brand. When people go through a hiring process, their impressions are formed by how timely the process is, how clearly referrals and decisions are communicated, and how respectful they felt throughout. Those experiences don’t end with a rejection; they become public signals about the company’s culture and how it treats people. If many rejected candidates share negative experiences online, it can harm the employer’s reputation and make top talent hesitant to apply in the future. Conversely, gathering and acting on feedback shows the organization values candidates—even those not hired—and strengthens the employer brand, making the company more attractive to strong applicants down the line. Using feedback to streamline communication, clarify timelines, and improve interview quality directly supports a positive perception of the company, which is why this is the most impactful reason for soliciting input from unsuccessful candidates.