To improve candidate experience and minimize spillover, organizations should do which?

• A. Schedule extended delays without communication
• B. Decrease transparency about the process
• C. Ensure interviews are well-prepared and welcoming
• D. Ignore candidate feedback

Answer: (C)

Focusing on how the interview is conducted directly shapes candidate experience. When interviews are well-prepared and welcoming, candidates encounter a clear structure, relevant questions, and a respectful, friendly tone. That reduces anxiety, shows the organization values applicants’ time, and leaves a positive impression even for those not selected. This thoughtful setup helps prevent spillover, since people walk away feeling treated fairly and informed about what happens next, which supports a better overall reputation and future interest from other candidates.

Conversely, extended delays without communication create frustration and uncertainty, harming trust. Less transparency about the process fuels suspicions of unfair or opaque practices. Ignoring candidate feedback blocks improvement and signals that input isn’t valued, which can further deteriorate the candidate experience and increase negative spillover.