Recruitment / Job Application / Interview

Recruitment

In the current global shortage of talents, finding the right candidate for the right position is a huge challenge for any hiring manager. Making choices amongst limited talent selections and competing with many competitors often lead you to hire the wrong person. To minimise the chances of hiring someone who is not suitable for a position, the hiring manager should carefully consider the following:

1. the available positions and when to fill them;
   
   
2. the skills and experience the ideal candidate should possess;
   
   
3. if possible, obtain a reference letter or a recommendation letter from the candidate's previous employer, teacher, or mentor.

The following are some documents that can help you throughout the hiring process.

A. Rejection Letter 

Companies often receive numerous applications from job seekers for every job opening. It is thus usual to send a form letter to the unsuccessful job candidates. The rejection letter should be courteous and professional, ending with a positive note (normally wishing them luck in the job search), so as to maintain the image and goodwill of the company.

In relation to candidates who are rejected for the current opening but may have the potential for future openings, you may wish to let the candidate know that you are preserving their CVs for reference to open up the possibility of future employment.   

B. Reference Letter

A reference letter is simply a report (supposedly neutral) that verifies the employment history in the CV for prospective employers. It generally includes facts and not personal opinions. It is brief and should include the following:

1. a statement to the addressee (or "To whom it may concern") on the purpose of the reference;

2. the period of employment of the referee, with an account of the duties performed, or the referee's general qualifications.

C. Recommendation Letter

A recommendation letter is similar to a reference letter but carries an endorsement of the referee. It may include personal opinions on the referee and is intended to persuade the prospective employer about the ability, skills, or character of the employee. In addition, a recommendation letter would also include a paragraph recommending the person for the position.