Nearly two-thirds of workers (63%) surveyed for hiring software company Greenhouse's Candidate Experience Report have said they are actively looking for a new job in the next six months, but half (49%) are unimpressed employers' recruitment processes.

The report surmises that candidates face lengthy initial applications, slow recruiter response times and follow-ups, unprepared and late interviews, inconsistent feedback, and they are often "ghosted" by companies.

The survey also found that 63% of job seekers would not submit an application if it takes longer than 15 minutes, and a similar proportion expect to hear back from companies within a week of sending their application, making them less patient that those in the US, UK and Germany.

More than 70% have been ghosted after an interview, but over 60% want feedback after interviewing, with 53% saying they would be inclined to apply for future jobs at that company, if they received feedback during the interview process, even if they didn't get the job.

"The results of our latest survey are a wake-up call for companies of all sizes hiring in Ireland. The tables have turned, now companies are being interviewed by candidates,” said Greenhouse EMEA general manager Colm O'Cuinneain said.

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“Every communication touchpoint, from your website to the job application to the interview, is now being assessed with a critical eye by candidates. A company’s hiring strategy needs to be more than just sharing a laundry list of perks, it’s the first opportunity the candidate has to determine if the company’s culture and mission resonates with their values and career goals.

"Companies that treat candidates with respect and deliver an inclusive, welcoming, and flexible recruitment experience from start to finish will stand out from the crowd."

Of the 1,500 respondents to the survey, including 150 based in Ireland, 1,305 were employed, 195 were currently seeking employment, with 37% candidates in Ireland applying for fewer jobs compared to before the pandemic, whereas 40% in the UK and 47% in the US are applying for more roles.

Similarly, Irish workers are more insistent on having the option of remote or hybrid working, with over half (53%) saying they would not apply for a job that insists on them being in the workplace at all times, which is a higher figure than in the UK and US.

Employee benefits such as flexible work arrangements and gender affirmation paid leave were the most important diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, which are a factor in whether to apply for 87% of candidates.

The ability to leave employee reviews on platforms like Glassdoor (40%), a diverse leadership team or board (32%), and employers making sure to pronounce candidates' names correctly were also crucial points to potential applicants.