No more app downloads! How a multi-channel approach leads to better candidate experiences
Summary
While apps used to be an innovative way to engage with users, platforms are now being forced to take app fatigue into account. The market is seeing a global decline in downloads as users start to burn out from app overload.
TalentNet’s multi-channel approach allows for better candidate experiences and faster time-to-value. Users are able to access key features on mobile devices, tablets, and desktops while eliminating any unnecessary friction.
We look at how our members access TalentNet’s TalentCommunity platform and why companies should opt for a multi-channel solution.
“There’s an app for that” is no longer the selling point it used to be.
As mobile devices get increasingly cluttered with a variety of apps, users are facing what some call “app fatigue”, leading to fewer downloads and declining engagement.
While some Direct Sourcing platforms continue to focus on app development, others are starting to create intuitive UI that works across all channels, including desktops, tablets, and phones.
TalentNet looks at how clients interact with our talent acquisition solution and why a multi-channel approach leads to a better candidate experience.
What’s app fatigue and why is it happening?
While apps used to be an innovative way to engage with users, industry reports are showing people are getting tired of being forced to download an app for every platform they use.
According to a recent market analysis, mobile app downloads declined from 2023 to 2024, with a 2.3% dip in global app installs for Google Play and iOS. In the U.S., this burnout is more evident, showing a 3.4 % decline of app downloads for the same years.
Causes for app fatigue are varied, and include:
- Too many notifications. As more platforms demand app downloads, users are facing an onslaught of notifications from their phones. Not only can this get overwhelming, it often reduces long-term engagement.
- Poor UI designs. In theory, apps should make life easier. But slow load times and confusing interfaces can interfere with a smooth Direct Sourcing strategy.
- Concerns around privacy. Apps that demand user information can lead to serious data breaches, which is why it’s vital to keep up with compliance expectations. TalentNet, for example, leads the industry in data safety with ISO 27701, 27001, and 27017 certifications, along with a SOC 2 Type II certification. It’s important to note that platforms without apps, like Talentnet, are able to reduce the risk of data breaches.
How do TalentNet Community users engage with our platform?
TalentNet’s community platform allows candidates to quickly register for Talent Communities in 60 seconds and apply for jobs with one click. Instead of requiring an app, our platform is accessible through desktops, mobile devices and tablets.
We took a deep dive into user engagement, finding that, across a sample size of over 60,000 users, members are most likely to access our solution through mobile devices, followed by desktops and tablets.
User Access by Channel:
| Mobile devices | Desktops | Tablets | Total users |
| 37,890 (62%) | 22,623 (37%) | 300 (0.49%) | 60,813 |
What should I look for in a Direct Sourcing solution?
A Direct Sourcing tech solution is one of the most important elements of your company’s talent acquisition strategy. This is where candidates can register for talent communities, engage with jobs and track their application status. When choosing a platform, it’s important to take user experience into account.
Platforms should:
- Let you choose how you engage with the solution. Companies who require app downloads could lack the flexibility needed for a customized approach that meets your unique needs.
- Be intuitive and easy to use. Direct Sourcing platforms should streamline your hiring process. It’s important to choose a solution that invests in its user experience and provides training on how to use its platform.
- Improve communication. Platforms should allow you to reach out to candidates without having to switch between tools. Look for SMS and email capabilities and customized templates.
Opting for better candidate experiences
While app downloads used to be an expectation, users are starting to look for a better, more seamless user interface. Platforms that allow for multi-channel use offer a variety of benefits, including:
- Smoother candidate experiences. Instead of downloading an app and facing potential privacy concerns and tech issues, platforms like TalentNet let top talent apply from any device without any extra steps.
- More flexibility. Users can engage with the platform in a way that works best for their needs.
- Faster time-to-value rates. By eliminating app downloads, users can get started faster, creating a smoother hiring journey.
TalentNet’s intuitive platform allows for multi-channel use and is powered by industry-leading AI and an experienced team. To learn more about our solution, book a demo here.
