The Power of Feedback:
How Honest Responses Build Positive Employer Branding

Picture this: Anna, an experienced professional, applies for her dream job at a fast-growing tech company. She goes through several recruitment stages - a phone call, a practical task, and finally an interview with a manager. Unfortunately, the company decides to hire someone else. In most cases, this would mean a generic rejection email - or worse, complete silence. But not this time. A few days after the interview, Anna receives personalized feedback prepared as part of the QwertySmart service. Instead of the usual “thank you, but we chose another candidate,” she gets a detailed message: a thank-you for her time, recognition of her strengths, and constructive advice on areas to improve.

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Discover the Story

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Anna reads the message in disbelief.

Even though she didn't get the job, she feels genuinely respected by the employer. The feedback praised her analytical thinking and industry knowledge, and highlighted her excellent interview preparation. It also pointed out areas for improvement - like presenting her ideas more clearly. For Anna, this is invaluable information. What does she do next? Instead of holding a grudge, she shares her experience on a professional social network. She praises the company: the process was challenging but respectful, and the feedback - the most valuable she has ever received. Her post earns dozens of likes and comments. Other candidates agree: few companies treat applicants this professionally. So even though Anna wasn't hired, the company gains a brand ambassador. An employer brand built on respect.

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Anna's story isn't unique.

Today's candidates have a strong voice - they share their recruitment experiences on social media and forums. Leaving candidates without a response can lead to frustration, and negative impressions quickly spread online, damaging a company's reputation. Disappointed candidates may even avoid a brand's products or services in the future. On the other hand, a company that treats every applicant with respect and provides meaningful feedback builds a reputation as professional and empathetic. Caring for candidates - even those who aren't hired - is just as important today as traditional HR metrics like time to hire or sourcing efficiency.

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A positive recruitment experience directly impacts employer brand perception.

As recruiters see you, so do candidates speak of you. If a company communicates clearly and offers constructive feedback, it shows it respects people and takes recruitment seriously. This kind of reputation is a magnet - talented professionals are more likely to apply to a company they know will treat them fairly, even if they're not selected. What's more, candidates who receive meaningful feedback often return in the future, better prepared, to try again in future recruitment rounds. This creates a positive cycle: professionalism builds trust, and trust leads to greater interest in your job openings.

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A small gesture, a big impact

Providing feedback to candidates may seem like a small gesture, but its impact on a company's public image is huge. An employer seen as open and people-oriented earns the title of "employer of choice." In the era of social media, every candidate's voice matters - a company praised for fair treatment is more likely to be recommended. Even those who weren't hired become brand advocates, just like Anna in our story. One positive testimony can attract dozens of other talented applicants.

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The QwertySmart service from Qwerty Jobs was created to make stories like Anna's the norm, not the exception. With QwertySmart, companies can easily provide each candidate with constructive feedback - quickly, efficiently, and professionally. Every response is crafted with the goal of building relationships and leaving a good impression, even when delivering rejection. It's an investment in employer branding that truly pays off.

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