An Exploratory Study of Recruiters' Self-Ratings of Interpersonal Communication and Applicants' Decisions about Employment

Abstract

The increasing criticism of using applicants' reports of recruiters' communication to explain postinterview outcomes suggests that alternative predictors should be identified. This exploratory investigation examined the extent to which 42 recruiters' self-ratings of interpersonal communication, specifically, empathy and involvement in the interaction, predict applicants' intent to accept a second offer for an interview. Analysis of data collected at campus screening interviews of 168 students showed that neither empathy nor involvement in the interaction significantly predicted applicants' postinterview decisions whereas, consistent with previous research, applicants' perception of recruiters' communication significantly predicted postinterview intentions. Training and research implications are addressed.