We all know as a recruiter, you have to have an online presence. But does a naff website actually lose you business? It can in certain industries and recruitment is one of them.
A first impression will be formed in a matter of seconds, whether it’s a candidate or a client looking at your website. The user may not even know why they don’t want to continue on your website, but if their journey is not a clear or pleasant one, they will click off and potentially never come back. More worryingly, go to a competitors website.
When we take on website briefs, often clients will show us websites they dislike but they are not sure why.
The main culprits are:
- Varying font styles & sizes
- Non-coherent colour pallet
- Lack of key messaging
- Too much information on one page
- Use of templates which show a lack of personality
- Use of soulless stock shots
We preach to our candidates every day about first impressions – it’s crucial to come across well in that first encounter with their potential employer. We need to take some of our own advice when it comes to our websites – you only have one chance for a first impression.
Content is King
Your content will not only keep your audience engaged and coming back for more, it naturally helps with your Google search rankings. Try to include; news feeds, blogs, images and ideally video.
Be the users ‘Friend’
Your website should have a clear path for each user. Job seekers should be able to search on jobs first and foremost. Clients should be able to access contact details and see what areas you specialise in at a glance.
Action!
Have a clear call-to-action. What do you want your users to do? Apply Now? Call now? Send your CV now? Make things simple and easy for them to actually send their CV if that’s your main objective. Be accessible and give people multiple ways of contacting you.
Are you mobile?
It seems an obvious one, but so many recruitment websites I come across are still not mobile or responsive. Over 75% of job seekers use a mobile device for job searches. If your site isn’t easy to view on a tablet or smart phone you are missing a trick. People will click off and make their way to a competitors website. Google won’t be nice to you either as there’s less chance of job seekers finding your website if it’s not mobile friendly.
