UNDERSTANDING TIME-TO-HIRE:  A KEY METRIC IN RECRUITMENT

By Jessica Roberts, Lead Analyst, Employment Technologies

Time-to-hire is a critical metric in the recruitment process, measuring the number of days from when a job candidate enters the hiring pipeline until they accept a job offer. This timeframe provides valuable insights into the efficiency of a company’s hiring process – impacting overall productivity, cost, and the ability to attract top talent.

Importance of Time-to-Hire

A shorter time-to-hire often indicates a streamlined recruitment process, enabling a company to quickly secure qualified candidates. This is particularly crucial in competitive job markets where high-caliber talent is snapped up fast. Conversely, a lengthy time-to-hire can lead to increased hiring costs, prolonged job vacancies, and potential loss of candidates to competing offers.

Calculating Time-to-Hire

To calculate time-to-hire, follow these simple steps:

1. Define the Start Point

Typically, this is when a candidate submits their application or is identified by a recruiter.

2. Define the End Point

This is usually when the candidate accepts the job offer.

3. Measure the Duration

Count the days between the start and end points.

 

 

Considerations for Accurate Measurement

Clear Definitions

Ensure consistent definitions of the start and end points across the organization to maintain uniformity in measurement.

Applicant Tracking System (ATS)

For the greatest precision, use an ATS or HRIS to accurately record timestamps and track each stage of the hiring process.

Hiring Stages

Break down the process into stages (e.g., application review, interview, offer negotiation) to identify bottlenecks.

Job Role Variability

Recognize that different roles may have different time-to-hire metrics due to varying complexities and market demands.

Internal vs. External Hires

Distinguish between internal and external hires, as internal moves often have a shorter time-to-hire.

Improving Time-to-Hire

To reduce time-to-hire, companies can streamline their recruitment processes by leveraging technology, enhancing communication between hiring teams, and maintaining a ready pool of qualified candidates. Regularly reviewing and optimizing each stage of the hiring process can help address inefficiencies and improve overall recruitment performance.

By monitoring and optimizing time-to-hire, organizations can enhance their ability to attract and retain top talent, thereby supporting their long-term growth and success.

 

Additional Resources

Decoding Cost-Per-Hire:  A Vital Recruitment Metric

Understanding Turnover Rates:  A Comprehensive Guide

HireData:  Optimizing Your Candidate Journey

 

For more than 30 years, Employment Technologies has been helping organizations hire, develop, and retain the very best talent. A five-time national Top HR Product of the Year award winner, we offer job-relevant tools for each phase of the hiring and development process – proven to reduce time and cost to hire, boost performance and retention, and deliver game-changing results. 

For a free consultation about your hiring and development goals,
please contact us below or call 888.332.0648

WE'RE HERE TO HELP.

Talk to An Expert!

Looking for new ways to streamline your recruiting process, drive better hiring decisions, improve engagement and retention, or boost bottom-line results? Reach out to talk with our team of HR Experts about how new technologies and best practices can address your unique needs and challenges.

Get your questions answered with NO OBLIGATION. Schedule your free consultation today.

Schedule Your Consultation
Never fear, we respect your privacy
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.