The Workplace Black Hole is Really a “Thing”

We have all heard of the recruiting black hole, and we all know that it really sucks. Lack of communication and connection can have a huge negative impact on the perception of any organization where candidates regularly fall into the black hole. It’s definitely not an easy fix because Recruiters deal with so much volume, but avoiding the black hole should be a high priority for all Recruiters.

What about internal communication? Can the black hole exist among employees? How about leaders? I would say, “yes”. I would further this by saying that the impact of the black hole on the candidate experience is the same as the “employee experience”. I’ve blogged about this a few times, and have talked about it more times than I can count. I talked about “clarity” and “frequency” in how leaders communicate with employees. I argued in both of these posts that it’s crucially important that leaders are crystal clear in how, what and when they communicate. Communication is the key driver of employee engagement, and we all know how strong of a positive correlation there is between strong engagement and strong business performance.

During my career, I have spent a significant portion of my time working with leaders to build up their leadership capabilities. For the most part, the specific area that requires upskilling revolves around communication, which I don’t see changing. Communication is so vitally important, and we will never stop learning and striving to do better. There’s too much at stake for businesses to not do this.

There is no magic potion with this. All is needed is to communicate more clearly and more frequently. Ask employees what they do and do not understand, be present, show an interest in their development, check-in often and always provide context.

One comment

  • Ghosting is a problem. Yes, volumes are high but common courtesy would suggest that least candidates that have been interviewed should be regretted. And better yet, before the position is reposted. And don’t even get me started on Employee Referral Programs. Don’t say you have them but then not even phone screen the referrals or acknowledge receipt from the person who has submitted it. I think the service side of HR certainly falling to the wayside in a world where busyness reigns supreme.

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