IT Recruitment Mistakes: 8 Ways You’re Losing Top Tech Talent
In IT recruitment, first impressions really do count. Whether it’s a developer, data engineer or cybersecurity expert, they’re not just assessing the job. You’re being assessed at every stage too. From the job ad to the interview process, every detail matters.
At TechNET IT, we’ve seen strong opportunities miss the mark. Not because the role wasn’t valuable, but because the hiring process sent the wrong message. If you’re finding it tough to attract or retain great candidates, you might be making one of these key mistakes…
Your job ad reads like code documentation
We get it…technical roles can be complex. But if your job ad is overloaded with jargon or reads like a list of functions from a backend script, you’ll lose candidates quickly.
Fix it: Speak human. Show the impact of the role, not just the responsibilities. Outline the tech stack clearly, but also highlight the company’s mission and culture. Keep the tone friendly but informative.
TechNET IT tip: We help clients craft ads that blend technical clarity with candidate appeal, making sure they resonate with the right talent.
You’re asking for five jobs in one
It’s common to see job specs that want full-stack engineers who are also DevOps experts, with project management experience. Maybe throw in AI knowledge for good measure.
Fix it: Be realistic. Prioritise core must-haves and separate nice-to-haves. If your tech team needs multiple skill sets, consider hiring in phases or hiring IT contractors short-term.
TechNET IT tip: We can advise whether your job spec aligns with market expectations or if it’s time to restructure.
You’re vague on salary and perks
“Competitive salary” is a red flag to many candidates. IT professionals, particularly in a high-demand market, want to know where they stand.
Fix it: Be transparent. Share the range, highlight any bonuses, remote working options, L&D budgets or tech perks. This builds trust early on.
TechNET IT tip: We provide up-to-date salary benchmarks across IT specialisms, helping you stay aligned with candidate expectations.
Your tone is cold and robotic
Even in tech, tone matters. If your ad sounds like a policy doc or compliance memo, you’re missing an opportunity to connect with real people.
Fix it: Use inclusive, friendly language. Talk about team culture, growth opportunities and how the role contributes to wider company goals.
TechNET IT tip: Need help writing tone-smart, candidate-friendly copy? We’re always happy to help shape ads that convert.
You’re ghosting or taking too long to respond
IT candidates won’t wait around, especially not in this fast-paced hiring landscape. Long silences or slow comms can quickly turn interest into indifference.
Fix it: Communicate consistently, even if it’s just to say “we’re still reviewing.” A streamlined process shows respect for the candidate’s time.
TechNET IT tip: Our recruitment workflows include regular candidate updates, taking the pressure off your internal team and protecting your brand.
Your hiring process is too slow
Four interview stages, a technical test, a presentation… by the time you’re ready to offer, your top candidate’s accepted another job.
Fix it: Keep it lean. One technical stage plus a team fit chat is often enough. Fast decisions signal a decisive, efficient business.
TechNET IT tip: We help clients trim down their process while still thoroughly vetting candidates – efficiency doesn’t mean cutting corners.
You’re ignoring market data
If you’re seeing dropouts or rejections, the issue may not be the candidate. It could be the offer, tech stack or perceived culture. In IT Recruitment, candidate data is the key to success, both for talent attraction and retention.
Fix it: Ask for feedback. Track patterns in rejections. And speak to your recruiter (that’s us!) about what the market wants in 2025.
TechNET IT tip: With AI-backed screening, interview rate data and real-time candidate insights, we help clients make smarter, data-led decisions.
You’re promoting perks no one cares about
Ping pong tables, free fruit, and “office dogs” might sound fun. However, today’s IT professionals are looking for real value: flexibility, wellbeing, meaningful work and career development.
Fix it: Focus on what truly matters. Hybrid/remote working, mental health support, learning budgets, clear career paths and impactful projects are far more likely to attract serious candidates than free coffee.
TechNET IT tip: We help you highlight the benefits that matter most to today’s IT talent, making sure your EVP (employee value proposition) stands out in all the right ways.
Let’s level up your IT recruitment
At TechNET IT, we help you build hiring processes that attract and retain top-tier tech professionals. Whether it’s permanent, contract, or retained search, we’ve got the tools, people and insights to get results.
If you’d like to discuss your current hiring approach or job specs, get in touch with the team today. Let’s make your next hire your best one.
