Free email template template · Word
A candidate hold email tells an interviewed candidate that their application is on hold, for example while other candidates are interviewed, budgets are confirmed or the role is being reviewed. It is honest about the delay, gives a date for the next update and keeps a good candidate interested.
CANDIDATE HOLD EMAIL
Dear [Candidate Name],
Thank you for meeting our team on [Date] for the [Designation] role. We enjoyed our conversation and wanted to give you a quick update rather than leave you waiting.
Your application is currently on hold while we [complete interviews with the remaining shortlisted candidates / finalise the budget for the role / review the scope of the position with the leadership team]. You remain under active consideration and no final decision has been made.
We expect to share the next update with you on or before [Date]. If your situation changes in the meantime, for example if you receive another offer or your notice period changes, please let us know so we can try to move faster where possible.
We understand that waiting is not easy and truly appreciate your patience. For any questions, you can reach me at [Phone Number] or reply to this email.
Best regards,
[HR Name]
[Designation]
[Company Name]
[Phone Number]
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It means the candidate has not been rejected or selected yet; the decision is pending for a business or process reason.
There is no fixed rule, but more than a few weeks usually leads candidates to accept other offers.
Give a general, honest reason without sharing confidential details about budgets or other candidates.