A survey by Flat Fee Recruiter has revealed that job candidates are growing increasingly wary of anonymous recruitment ads. In fact, just 1 in 10 candidates are willing to apply for roles advertised by agencies that don’t disclose the employer’s identity. This trend underscores a significant shift in candidate behaviour, with a clear preference emerging for branded adverts that allow them to apply directly to the employer.

Job advertisements that use vague language such as “our client” and offer minimal details about the hiring company are increasingly viewed as outdated and suspicious. Savvy candidates may question whether these opportunities are genuine or if the recruiter is simply “farming” for CVs without a specific role in mind.

The Power of Branded Adverts

As a result, jobseekers are far more likely to engage with job postings that feature the hiring company’s logo, detailed company information, and clarity about who they’ll be working for. This preference for branded adverts isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about trust and confidence.

Candidates want to know that their application is going directly to the company, not through layers of intermediaries. They also appreciate the ability to research the company beforehand to ensure it aligns with their values and career goals.

This preference is reflected in the performance of job advertisements across major job boards such as Reed, CV Library, and Total Jobs. Branded adverts consistently outperform those posted anonymously, with job boards now offering enhanced features like careers pages and bespoke company bios to better market employers to candidates.

The Importance of Transparency

For companies serious about attracting top talent, the message from the report is clear: transparency and direct engagement with candidates is critical. Even businesses making only a few hires each year are increasingly using these enhanced job board features to showcase their brand. By doing so, they build trust with potential candidates, ensuring they attract the most suitable talent for their roles.

To explore these findings in greater detail and learn actionable strategies for improving your hiring process, download Finding the Right Talent Fast: The Flat Fee Recruiter 2024 Candidate Experience Report today.