Elena Nocheva is Senior IT Recruiter at Delasport, where she plays a key role in shaping a thoughtful, people-centric approach to tech hiring. In the interview below, she shares why candidate experience is more than a buzzword. It’s a strategic priority that drives long-term success.
– Elena, what’s one factor in tech recruitment that’s often underestimated?
– At Delasport, we believe candidate experience is one of the most powerful drivers of recruitment success. While many focus on sourcing or employer branding, it’s the way we engage with candidates that truly makes the difference – especially when attracting top tech talent.
– How does candidate experience influence hiring outcomes?
– Great engineers usually aren’t job-hunting, they’re curious. If they agree to meet with us, it’s because something piqued their interest. A rushed or impersonal process sends the wrong message. We make sure every interaction shows we value their time and potential.
– Isn’t this just about being organized and fast?
– It’s more than that. Every detail matters – from our communication style to how well interviewers are prepared. At Delasport, our hiring process reflects how we operate as a tech-first company: structured, intentional, and people-centric.
– Is there a connection to retention as well?
– Absolutely. Candidates who feel respected and informed from the start tend to onboard faster and engage deeper. At Delasport, we see the hiring journey as the first step in long-term collaboration, not just a transaction. We have a dedicated Learning and Development team who – in collaboration with us and Human Resources – onboards new hires in a swift and pleasant manner.
– What are the essentials of a strong candidate experience?
– For us, it’s about clarity, respect, consistency, job-relevant steps, and closure. When someone meets with us at Delasport, we make it a point that they feel seen and respected throughout the process.
– Who’s responsible for creating this experience?
– We view candidate experience as a shared responsibility. It’s not just the job of Human Recourses or Talent Acquisition – it’s something everyone involved in hiring should champion. It reflects how seriously we take building high-performing teams, and it shows in our products.
Tech recruitment isn’t just about filling roles. It’s about earning trust before a contract is even signed. That’s how you win top talent.
Sounds good? If you’d like to join Delasport, make sure to keep an eye on our open positions!
