Recruitment has come a long way since the days of job listings in newspapers and posting hard copy CV’s.
Today, technology is transforming the way companies identify, attract, and select top talent. Whether it be through application tracking or video interviews, tech-drive recruitment tools are aiding employers and organisations in navigating a competitive landscape in order to connect with candidates more efficiently.
As we look ahead, it’s clear that technology will continue to play a vital role in shaping the future of recruitment. In this post, we will explore some of the advancements that are predicted to change the way recruitment is done in the years to come.
In this blog we explore:
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How Artificial Intelligence is being used in recruitment
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Can modern chatbots replace human recruitment?
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Virtual job fairs are leading to a huge increase in attendance
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How gamification can get candidates excited to work at your company
How Artificial Intelligence is being used in recruitment
Artificial Intelligence is becoming an everyday tool to be harnessed by businesses, with it becoming more prominent in the world of recruitment over the past few years.
Let’s start with what AI is? AI relates to the method a computer or software perceives, synthesises and infers information to think intelligently, like a human mind. There are many different layers to AI, from purely reactive to self-aware. Whilst the latter of the two is still ‘in the works’, the power of AI to be used for businesses across the world.
With 75% of HR professionals feeling they lack the time to fully analyse candidate pools and recruit the most suitable individuals, it’s not surprising that more and more businesses are turning to AI to support the hiring process. Many may default to the argument that the introduction of AI will take away jobs from those previously in the role, but when it comes to recruitment, removing unconscious bias within the decision-making process can only be a good thing, right? Well, yes, by and large the use of AI will help in the screening process of candidates, not only helping to save organisations time, but also contributing to a more diverse workforce. In fact, 68% of recruiters agree that by introducing AI into the selection process, unintentional bias will be removed.
Alongside the pros of time and money saved when using AI, there is also the unbeatable benefit that it speeds up the recruitment process. Research shows that the top candidates get taken off the market within just ten days, meaning the introduction of AI into your recruitment process will help ensure you are not missing out on top talent.
The opportunities AI opens up for your organisation go beyond that of scrolling through the talent pool, they aid in all aspects of the process. Here are some of the ways AI is already influencing some recruitment processes:
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Writing job descriptions
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Candidate attraction techniques
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Selecting quality candidates
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Screening candidates at the first stage
Whilst there are many pros to introducing AI into recruitment, it's important to remember that algorithms and models need to be constantly reviewed and maintained. Otherwise, the AI could create its own bias.
Can modern chatbots replace human recruitment?
The idea of chatbots have been around for decades, coming a long way since their introduction in 1966. Designed to mimic human language, chatbots are a common feature on many business websites, as a way to improve customer experience by creating 24/7 customer service to answer FAQs. But more than merely a customer service aid, chatbots are now being embraced by the recruitment industry to streamline their hiring process.
Improving customer experience is just the beginning. Chatbots have proved to be able to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of recruiters everywhere by assisting in screening candidates, scheduling interviews, and even conducting initial interviews. A study conducted by a global recruitment company showed that using a chatbot as part of the hiring process can save recruiters up to 40% of their time by generating faster response times and giving instant feedback. The introduction of chatbots within your recruitment process could mean more time can be dedicated to building relationships with candidates and clients.
One of the most talked about AI platforms at the moment is ChatGPT. It is essentially an advanced chatbot that uses AI developed by OpenAI to give human-like, intelligent, and accurate answers to questions presented. This technology is taking the recruitment industry by storm, as it is able to create compelling job descriptions, candidate outreach emails, script feedback, and much more. With a wealth of information at its core, utilising such platforms could streamline the recruitment process and open up hours for overloaded staff. According to research from MIT, ChatGPT can enhance job performance, with users completing tasks 37% faster and to a better standard than previously.
There are now even voice-activated video chatbots, that can generate an avatar on screen to interact and answer a person’s questions, so someone may think they are talking to a person. Do you think this is going too far? Can it replace the human-touch? Time will tell.
Virtual job fairs are leading to a huge increase in attendance
The ripple effects of the pandemic are still being seen across the globe today, and in its path we are seeing not only remote jobs, but remote learning. With many university students' education being limited to online courses, we are also seeing many job fairs choosing the virtual option rather than a physical event. A recent survey found that virtual job fairs attracted 80% more candidates than in-person events, and saved employers up to 60%!
But why would someone choose to attend a virtual event?
Virtual job fairs offer the opportunity to broaden the pool of talent you are searching for to find the perfect candidate or organisation to suit your needs. As job seekers learn more about job opportunities, ask questions, and interact with representatives and recruiters, they will learn more about the company, its culture and environment, without leaving the comfort of their home.
With diversity and inclusion being a large focus within recruitment, virtual jobs fairs give the opportunity for organisations to hire from outside their local area and discover top talent that may have been otherwise unattainable. Bringing people together from all backgrounds and walks of life, virtual events like these are set to become a popular trend. Platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Brazen and Hopin are able to host virtual job fairs, such as some of the UK's biggest events, including Women in Business Expo, National Graduate Recruitment Exhibition, and Job Fair UK.
How gamification can get candidates excited to work at your company
One of the newest trends within recruitment tech is gamification. Yes, it’s just as fun as it sounds!
Gamification includes using game design elements in non-game contexts, which includes job applications and assessments. Unlike traditional application processes that can have unintentional cultural bias and low validity, gamification can present challenges in a way that reduces miscommunication and interpretations, and engages the candidate in the application process. A huge 78% of people said that a gamified recruitment process made them more eager to work for a company!
With VR simulations, virtual escape rooms, and online challenges offering valuable insights into candidate skills, abilities, and personality traits, this technology is set to not only transform the recruitment process, but streamline it by ensuring the candidate you hire is the right one for you. These tasks or ‘games’ can test a candidate’s cognitive ability and behaviour to gain knowledge on their learning ability, flexibility, problem solving, workplace interaction, and so much more!
Contact us for cutting edge insights and hiring advice
Looking at the future of tech within recruitment allows us to see how it can aid both recruiters and candidates.
Freeing up time to focus on the strategic side of recruitment allows for every onboarding experience to be smooth as top talent transitions into new roles. Whilst many find themselves weary of embracing the technological advancements which lie ahead, there is much to be gained from tools that increase efficiency and engagement to get the results you need.
For the latest recruitment insights and advice on creating a tailored hiring strategies to reach potential candidates, contact our team here.
Find out more about the author Charlie Moore, Principle Recruitment Consultant here.