A candidate is a person an organisation is actively considering for a job.
What is a candidate?
A candidate is someone who is being considered for a role, usually after applying and moving forward in the recruitment process. Candidates may be screened, interviewed or assessed before an employer makes a hiring decision.
The word ‘candidate’ is sometimes used interchangeably with ‘applicant,’ but it often suggests the person is further along in the process and under active consideration.
Clear communication with candidates helps create a positive experience and supports fair, consistent hiring.
Things to know
- A candidate is typically someone being actively considered, rather than everyone who applies
- Candidates may be internal (already working for the organisation) or external
- Good candidate communication supports trust and strengthens employer reputation
- Hiring processes should be fair and consistent for every candidate
- Candidate information should be handled carefully and in line with data protection rules
FAQs
When does an applicant become a candidate?
Usually when they’ve passed an initial stage, such as screening, and are being actively considered for a role.
Can an internal employee be a candidate?
Yes. Someone already working at the organisation can be a candidate for a new role.
Why does candidate experience matter?
It can affect whether people accept offers, recommend the organisation and apply again in the future.
How should candidate information be handled?
It should be kept secure and used in line with data protection rules and company policy.
