Why has the average time to hire for software developers on OfferZen increased from 21 days to 35 days over the past quarter?

Introduction

The increase in average time to hire for software developers on OfferZen from 21 to 35 days over the past quarter is a significant shift that warrants careful analysis. This issue directly impacts the platform's core value proposition and could have far-reaching consequences for both employers and job seekers. I'll approach this problem systematically, examining various factors that could contribute to this change and developing a comprehensive plan to address the root cause.

Step 1

Clarifying Questions (3 minutes)

• Looking at the timing, I'm thinking there might be seasonal factors at play. Has this increase coincided with any particular time of year or industry events?

Why it matters: Seasonal trends could explain temporary fluctuations in hiring time. Expected answer: No significant seasonal correlation identified. Impact on approach: If seasonal, we'd focus on cyclical strategies; if not, we'd look deeper into internal factors.

• Considering the metric itself, I'm curious about its components. Has there been any change in how time to hire is calculated or measured?

Why it matters: Ensures we're comparing apples to apples and not dealing with a measurement issue. Expected answer: No changes to the calculation method. Impact on approach: If changed, we'd need to recalibrate our analysis; if not, we can proceed with investigating other factors.

• Thinking about user segments, I'm wondering if this increase is uniform across all types of employers and developers, or if it's more pronounced in certain areas?

Why it matters: Helps identify if the issue is systemic or localized to specific segments. Expected answer: Variation across segments, with some more affected than others. Impact on approach: Would guide us to focus on the most impacted segments first.

• Reflecting on recent platform changes, have there been any significant updates to OfferZen's matching algorithm or user interface in the past quarter?

Why it matters: Recent changes could directly impact the hiring process efficiency. Expected answer: Some minor updates, but nothing major. Impact on approach: If significant changes occurred, we'd scrutinize their impact; if not, we'd look at other internal and external factors.