Job-seeker reactions to rejection emails

Abstract

The authors examined participant reactions to rejection emails. Those participants who evaluated emails that provided information in an interpersonally-sensitive manner with an opportunity for future interaction reported significantly higher attitudes toward the recruiter than did those who evaluated emails that were low in information sensitivity and interactivity. In addition, the effect of email type on word-of-mouth intentions toward the company was mediated by participant attitudes toward the recruiter. These results provide implications for organizations that are focusing on the efficiencyoriented benefits of using applicant tracking system at the expense of job-seekers' reactions and for individual recruiters who may be concerned about the effect of organization practices on their professional brand.