Guide

Build a simple hiring pipeline you can actually manage

Set up a lightweight system to track candidates so nobody falls through the cracks.

8 min read·4 steps

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Use a spreadsheet before anything fancier
A simple spreadsheet with columns for stage, next step, and date is enough for most early-stage hiring. Dedicated software only pays off once you're hiring regularly.
Define your stages clearly
Applied, screened, interviewed, offer, hired or rejected. A short, clear set of stages keeps things visible at a glance.
Set a target response time and stick to it
Good candidates are often talking to multiple companies at once. Aim to respond within a few days at every stage, or you'll lose them to whoever moves faster.
Review the pipeline weekly
A five-minute weekly check catches candidates who've stalled and keeps the process moving instead of quietly going cold.

That’s the whole thing.

Use a spreadsheet before anything fancier