We recently asked over 150 construction professionals one simple question:
“Which stage of the hiring process is most likely to make you drop out?”
And the responses were clear – and pretty eye-opening.
As recruiters in the construction space, we often hear surface-level feedback like “the role wasn’t right” or “timing didn’t work out.” But dig a little deeper, and you’ll uncover the real blockers that cause quality candidates to disengage – often without saying a word.
Here’s what stood out most:
- Communication gaps lose candidates. (42%)
Whether it’s slow updates, unclear timelines, or silence after interviews – poor communication was the #1 reason candidates said “I’m out.”
- Lack of feedback matters more than you think. (22%)
Candidates want clarity. When they don’t know where they stand, especially after putting in the effort to interview, many simply move on.
- Transparency is non-negotiable. (19%)
Vague salary ranges or unclear benefits packages don’t just frustrate people – they create doubt and hesitation. And hesitation leads to dropouts.
- Too many interviews = burnout. (17%)
Extended processes with multiple rounds can make candidates feel like their time isn’t valued. The best talent won’t wait around.
So, what does this mean for employers?
If you’re finding it tough to get offers over the line, it might be time to look at the experience you’re giving candidates – not just the job itself.
As the week winds down, this might be something worth reflecting on. If you’re looking to build your construction team, get in touch with us today.