Text to Apply: Streamline Recruiting with SMS

Let's take a moment to think about how we all communicate every day.

Texting, right? It's quick, straightforward, and lets us get our message across without any fuss.

Now, imagine if applying for a job was that simple. Welcome to the world of "Text to Apply," a game-changer in the recruitment scene.

Text to Apply is doing more than just sprucing up the hiring process — it's bridging the gap between eager job seekers and their next potential workplace using everyone's go-to communication method. It’s a vital tool for building an all-star candidate experience.

In this guide, we'll break down why Text to Apply is a recruiter’s secret weapon, how it works, and why it's a must-have in today's recruiting playbook.

What is Text to Apply?

Text to Apply, also known as text-to-hire or text-to-apply software, is a recruitment capability that allows job seekers to apply for positions by sending a text message containing a pre-defined keyword or by scanning a QR code.

This innovative approach streamlines the traditional processes associated with job applications, like accessing applications and applying for jobs. Job seekers can instead initiate the application process seamlessly using their mobile devices, making it convenient and accessible.

The Benefits of Using Text Messaging in Your Recruiting Strategy

Whether they’re scanning a QR code or sending a defined keyword from signage, text messaging offers several advantages in the recruitment process:

• Speed: Text messages are delivered instantly, ensuring quick communication with candidates.
• Convenience: Job seekers can apply from anywhere, at any time, using their mobile phones.
• Reach: SMS reaches a broad audience, including candidates who may not actively visit job boards or websites.
• Versatility: Research shows 47% of job seekers say texting is their preferred form of communication.   

What’s more, Text to Apply isn't limited to a specific industry or job type. It's a versatile tool that can benefit any organization looking to streamline their hiring process and attract top talent.

Who Benefits from Text to Apply?

Most industries and job types can benefit from Text to Apply, but there are a few situations in which it’s especially beneficial:

• Deskless industries: If your business operates in industries like retail, hospitality, healthcare, or field services where employees aren't desk-bound, Text to Apply is a game changer. It reaches candidates directly on their mobile devices, making it easy for them to apply on the go.
• Evergreen, always-open positions: Some roles are always in demand (e.g., customer service, sales, or entry-level positions). Text to Apply keeps your pipeline filled with qualified candidates, ensuring you're never short-staffed.
• High volume hiring: If your organization regularly hires in bulk — seasonal workers, event staff, or temporary roles — Text to Apply streamlines the application process. You can sift through candidates quickly to get your team up and running in no time.

This also ensures a steady flow of applicants, so you always have a talent pool of qualified individuals.

How Does Text to Apply Work?

Text to Apply works by providing job seekers with different entry points to initiate the application process:

• Texting a pre-defined keyword to a specified number.
• Scanning a QR code displayed on job advertisements or promotional materials. 

Upon initiating the process, candidates are directed to a dedicated career site or landing page where they can view job listings, apply for open positions, or submit their information for future opportunities. This seamless experience enhances candidate engagement and encourages more qualified individuals to apply.

Can Employers Text Job Applicants?

Yes, employers can use text messages to communicate with job applicants — if they have a tool that allows two-way texting.

However, it's important to ensure employers comply with relevant laws and regulations when using text messages for recruitment purposes, like obtaining consent from applicants to receive text communications and respecting their privacy. Additionally, employers should use text messaging responsibly and professionally to maintain a positive employer brand and candidate experience.

Streamline Recruiting with Text to Apply Software

Text to Apply software plays a pivotal role in optimizing the recruitment workflow:

• Simplified job promotion: Easily promote job openings through posters, flyers, or online ads with QR codes or keywords.
• Enhanced communication: Maintain communication with candidates via SMS throughout the recruitment process, from initial application to scheduling interviews.
• Analytics and reporting: Gain insights into candidate engagement, response rates, and campaign effectiveness.

By leveraging Text to Apply software, recruiters can streamline their processes, attract top talent, and fill open positions faster with the right candidates. This technology aligns with values like enhancing candidate experience, optimizing recruitment efforts, and maximizing reach.

Elevate and Accelerate Your Hiring with Paylocity Recruiting

In today's competitive job market, speed, efficiency, and culture are crucial. With Paylocity Recruiting, you can automate hiring processes, amplify outreach, showcase your culture, and build stronger candidate connections to help swiftly fill positions.

• Maximize your reach. Automatically post to over 20,000+ online job boards.
• Boost visibility and drive applications with text-to-apply and scan-to-apply promotions.
• Save time by choosing from our comprehensive requisition template library or leverage generative AI to efficiently compose clear and compelling job descriptions, saving valuable time.
• Conveniently reach candidates by text or email and track all communication within the platform. 

Request a demo to learn how you can wow your candidates with a simplified application process and a better candidate experience.