Something else about Sabio that sticks out to me is the application process.
As someone that obsessively thinks about sales, I noticed that when I clicked the “apply” button I received an email from someone that gave me info and asked for questions. That seems relatively standard. I’d expect even a phone call the next day or so. ALSO I noticed something missing from what I’ve seen in at least two other program’s applications: survey questions beginning with “Why”.
I think it’s good to get an idea about your applicant’s intensions, talent, background, etc. They’re good data points. But any of those questions can be asked directly to the applicant via phone call or direct email.
Before you say to yourself, “What’s the different in having the questions in an application form versus an email auto-response?” I’ll explain that perception is the difference. A message in my inbox feels more personal. Answers to a list of questions on a publicly available form serves exactly the same purpose as a resumé.
There’s no expectation of followup questions or feedback from the reader of those answers. Where is a two-way dialogue encouraged?
If you engage someone directly about things like their intensions, goals, etc, they get the idea that you’re personally interested. It’s like the difference of a first impression with a handshake versus one in a webinar.
I think resumés, surveys, essay questions have their place in background information and experience. For more intimate details about a person’s ideas, values, and goals these methods of gathering data are dated and inefficient.
Today, personal connection is the key, and it’s only increasing in value.