Interview assignments are a great way to assess a candidate's skills beyond their resume. But sending out assignments and managing the process can be time-consuming. This post provides email templates to streamline your workflow, ensuring a smooth and positive candidate experience.
From the initial assignment to requesting feedback, we've got you covered. Use these templates to communicate clearly and professionally with candidates and internal reviewers.
Table of contents
Crafting a Professional and Engaging Interview Assignment Email
Initial Assignment Email Template
Reminder Email Template
Extension Request Approval Email Template
Assignment Submission Confirmation Email Template
Feedback Request Email Template (for Internal Reviewers)
Thank You & Next Steps Email Template
Download Sending an Interview Assignment: Example Email Templates in multiple formats
Wrapping Up
Crafting a Professional and Engaging Interview Assignment Email
Writing a professional and engaging interview assignment email is a delicate balance. It's important to convey clear instructions while maintaining a tone that reflects your company's culture and values. This approach can enhance the candidate experience, making them feel valued and informed throughout the process.
Start with a warm greeting that includes the candidate's name to personalize the communication. This small detail can set a positive tone and make the candidate feel appreciated from the outset.
Clearly outline the purpose of the email and the details of the assignment. Include all necessary information such as deadlines, expected outcomes, and any specific tools or resources needed to complete the task.
Use bullet points or numbered lists to break down complex instructions. This makes the email easier to follow and ensures that no important details are overlooked by the candidate.
Conclude the email with an open invitation for questions or clarifications. Encouraging open communication can foster a sense of trust and shows that you are supportive of the candidate's success.
Finally, express enthusiasm about the candidate's participation in the interview process. A positive closing statement can leave a lasting impression and motivate the candidate to deliver their best work.
Initial Assignment Email Template
Use this template to send the assignment details to the candidate after the initial screening. This is your first impression, so make it count and set the right tone!
Subject: Assignment for [Job Title] Role at [Company Name]
Hi [Candidate Name],
Thanks for taking the time to chat with us about the [Job Title] role! We enjoyed learning more about your experience.
As the next step in our hiring process, we'd like you to complete a short assignment. This will help us better understand your skills in a practical setting.
- Assignment: [Name of Assignment]
- Description: [Briefly describe the assignment - 1-2 sentences]
- Deadline: [Date and Time]
- Submission Instructions: [How the candidate should submit the assignment. E.g., 'Please submit your completed assignment by replying to this email.' or 'Please upload your assignment to [Link to upload portal].']
- Estimated Time: [Estimated time to complete the assignment]
We understand that your time is valuable, so we've designed this assignment to be focused and relevant to the role. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.
We look forward to reviewing your submission!
Best regards,
[Your Name] [Your Title] [Company Name]
Reminder Email Template
Send this template a day or two before the submission deadline to nudge candidates who haven't yet submitted their assignment. A little reminder can go a long way in ensuring timely submissions.
Subject: Gentle Reminder: [Assignment Name] Submission Due Soon
Hi [Candidate Name],
Just a friendly reminder that the deadline for submitting the [Assignment Name] assignment is approaching on [Date] at [Time] [Time Zone].
We're excited to see your work! If you've already submitted it, please disregard this email. If you're facing any challenges or need an extension, please let us know as soon as possible so we can assist you.
Good luck with your submission!
Best regards,
The [Your Company Name] Team
Extension Request Approval Email Template
If a candidate requests an extension, use this template to grant it while setting clear expectations. Managing expectations is a key part of candidate experience.
Subject: Extension Approved for Your Interview Assignment
Hi [Candidate's Name],
Thank you for reaching out and letting us know about your situation. We understand that sometimes things don't go as planned, and we're happy to grant you an extension for your interview assignment.
Please find the updated deadline below:
- New Submission Deadline: [New Date and Time]
We hope this additional time helps you to complete the assignment comfortably. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reply to this email.
Looking forward to seeing your work!
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Position]
[Company Name]
[Contact Information]
Assignment Submission Confirmation Email Template
Confirm receipt of the assignment with this template to assure the candidate that their work has been received. It's a simple way to show that you value their time and effort.
Subject: Confirmation of Assignment Submission
Hi [Candidate's Name],
Thank you for submitting your assignment for the [Job Title] position. We have received your work and appreciate the effort and time you put into it.
Our team will review your submission and get back to you shortly with the next steps. If you have any questions in the meantime, feel free to reach out.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Position]
[Company Name]
[Contact Information]
Feedback Request Email Template (for Internal Reviewers)
Use this template to request feedback from internal reviewers on the submitted assignment. Getting timely feedback is important to keep the hiring process moving.
Subject: Feedback Needed: [Candidate's Name] Interview Assignment
Hi [Reviewer’s Name],
I hope this message finds you well. We have received the completed interview assignment from [Candidate's Name] for the [Job Title] position. To keep our hiring process moving smoothly, we need your valuable feedback.
Please take a moment to review the attached assignment and share your thoughts. Here are a few points to consider:
- How well did the candidate understand the task requirements?
- Were there any areas where the candidate excelled or could improve?
- Do you have any concerns about their approach or the final output?
Your insights are important to us and will help guide our next steps. If possible, please provide your feedback by [Deadline Date].
Thank you for your time and support.
Best regards,
[Your Name] [Your Position] [Your Contact Information]
Thank You & Next Steps Email Template
After reviewing the assignment, use this template to thank the candidate and outline the next steps in the interview process. Clear communication is key to maintaining a positive candidate relationship.
Subject: Thank You - [Job Title] Assignment Review
Hi [Candidate Name],
Thank you for submitting your assignment for the [Job Title] role. We appreciate you taking the time and effort to complete it.
We've reviewed your submission and were impressed with [mention a specific positive aspect of their assignment - e.g., your approach to problem-solving, the clarity of your code, your creative solution].
Here are the next steps in our interview process:
- [Step 1: e.g., A follow-up interview with the hiring manager]
- [Step 2: e.g., A technical interview with the engineering team]
- [Step 3: e.g., A final interview with the team lead]
[Optional: Briefly mention the timeline for the next steps - e.g., We plan to schedule these interviews within the next week.]
We'll be in touch soon to schedule the next interview. In the meantime, please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.
Thanks again!
Best regards,
[Your Name] [Your Title] [Company Name]
Download Sending an Interview Assignment: Example Email Templates in multiple formats
Wrapping Up
Using these email templates will help you create a positive candidate experience throughout the interview assignment process. Remember to customize them to reflect your company's voice and the specific requirements of the role.
By providing clear instructions, timely reminders, and constructive feedback, you'll ensure a smooth and engaging experience for every candidate. This ultimately helps you identify top talent and make informed hiring decisions.
Sending an Interview Assignment: Example Email Template FAQs
What should I include in an interview assignment email?
Clearly state the assignment's purpose, instructions, deadline, and expected format. Also, mention the evaluation criteria and provide contact information for questions. Be sure to include the job description and the skills-based hiring requirements.
How long should candidates be given to complete an assignment?
The timeframe should be reasonable, considering the assignment's complexity. Generally, 2-5 days is appropriate, but adjust based on the workload. Communicate the deadline clearly in your email.
What if a candidate requests an extension?
Evaluate extension requests on a case-by-case basis. If the reason is valid and doesn't compromise the hiring timeline, grant a reasonable extension. Use our extension request approval template.
How do I request feedback from internal reviewers?
Provide reviewers with the candidate's submission and a clear rubric. Use the feedback request email template to solicit structured feedback on specific skills or areas.
Should I provide feedback to candidates on their assignment?
Providing feedback is a great way to improve employer branding. While not always feasible, constructive feedback enhances the candidate experience, even for unsuccessful applicants. Keep it concise and focused on areas for improvement.
What is the best way to streamline my interview process?
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No trick questions.
Accurate shortlisting.