Struggling to Hire? Here’s What Hertfordshire Businesses Get Wrong
If you’ve been trying to fill a role lately and it’s taking longer than expected — you’re not alone. Across Hertfordshire, businesses of all sizes are finding it tougher to attract and secure the right talent.
But here’s the thing: in many cases, the issue isn’t a lack of good candidates. It’s how the hiring process is being handled.
At smt recruitment, we speak to employers and candidates every day, and we see the same patterns repeating themselves. The good news? With a few honest adjustments, you can turn your hiring challenges into real results.
1. Job Descriptions That Don’t Inspire
Let’s start with the obvious. Many job descriptions are written for HR compliance, not for human beings.
If your job ad reads like a checklist of duties and demands, you’re not selling the opportunity — you’re pushing people away.
What works better:
Lead with why someone should want the job, not just what they’ll be doing.
Highlight your company culture and progression opportunities.
Use plain, approachable language — not corporate jargon.
Remember, you’re not just describing a vacancy — you’re marketing an opportunity.
2. Unrealistic Expectations
Every business wants the perfect candidate. But the truth is, those “unicorn” candidates — the ones who tick every box and can start immediately — are rare.
If your expectations are too high, you’ll miss out on great people who could grow into the role.
Our advice:
Focus on what’s essential versus what’s trainable.
Consider transferable skills and attitude, not just experience.
Be realistic about the salary range for the skill level you need.
Sometimes, a good hire is about potential, not perfection.
3. Slow or Disconnected Hiring Processes
You’ve found a great candidate, but then… weeks go by before the next step. By the time you’re ready to make an offer, they’ve already accepted another job. Sound familiar?
In today’s market, speed matters. Candidates are often juggling multiple offers — and the businesses that move quickly are the ones that secure the best people.
How to fix it:
Streamline your interview stages.
Keep communication clear and consistent.
If you like someone, don’t wait. Move to offer before your competition does.
A delayed decision is one of the fastest ways to lose talent.
4. Overlooking Recruiter Insight
Recruiters aren’t just there to send CVs — we’re your eyes and ears in the market. We know what candidates are looking for, what salaries are realistic, and what your competitors are offering.
Sometimes, businesses get stuck hiring in a vacuum — posting ads, getting little response, and wondering why.
By partnering with a recruiter like smt recruitment, you gain market insight and access to pre-qualified candidates who may never even see your job ad.
5. Ignoring Employer Brand
Even the best job ad won’t work if your online presence tells a different story.
Candidates today will always research you — your website, your reviews, your social media. If your company looks outdated, disorganised, or silent online, they’ll move on.
The fix:
Make sure your digital footprint reflects who you are as an employer. Showcase your team, celebrate achievements, and let people see what it’s like to work for you.
The smt recruitment Advantage
At smt recruitment, we help Hertfordshire businesses hire smarter — not harder. From crafting stronger job descriptions to advising on salary benchmarking and interview timelines, our role is to make the hiring process smoother, faster, and more effective.
We connect local employers with the right people — often before they ever hit the open job market.
Get in touch
Hiring doesn’t have to be frustrating. By rethinking your approach — simplifying your process, being realistic about expectations, and working with a trusted recruitment partner — you can find the talent you’ve been missing.
If you’re ready to stop struggling and start hiring smarter, get in touch with the smt recruitment team today — we’ll help you get it right from the start.
