Understanding The Power Of People And Technology
26 March 2020
"Tools such as AI and machine learning are changing the future of recruitment. But the human aspect of hiring shouldn’t be neglected" - Jack Ison, Talent Associate, Talentful.
Today, technology has become a fundamental part of a recruiter’s job. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are standardizing repetitive tasks for the recruitment industry. Even technology we use every day, such as search intelligence, has changed how recruiters discover talent.
Each time you make a search on Google or LinkedIn, your computer removes a significant amount of time that would’ve been spent scrolling through those pages of results. With screening CVs and shortlisting candidates taking an estimated 23 hours for one hire, AI and machine learning can help shoulder some of the workload the recruiter faces when sourcing talent.
New technologies excel at tasks that rely on data processing and allow recruiters to access more information and filter prospective candidates easily with the use of data analytics. Companies are now able to access a broader and deeper talent pool, as well as create a more in-depth character profile they might not have seen before.
Automation is the future, but keeping things continuously humanized changes the entire process.
The human factor
In my view, emerging technologies will continue to be invaluable to the recruitment industry as they allow companies to both promote and diversify their workforce. But I truly believe the one thing that cannot be replaced in recruitment, regardless of what technology is used, is the immense value you get from personal interactions.
Technology is a tool that allows recruiters to focus on building teams, shape company culture, and ensure a diverse workplace, but tools only go so far. The “human” aspect of recruitment shouldn’t be neglected.
From making final hiring decisions to integrating new ways to keep people engaged, recruiters are essential to building trust and culture in the workplace in ways AI software doesn’t. In fact, surveys show that 49% of recruiters say technology has made it harder for them to make human connections. Another 81% said in this age of technology, stronger than ever, people skills are needed.
Guidance and human interaction – the lifeblood of success in the industry – will always be essential. With the shifts in how the world works currently because of Covid-19, it is even more critical to our success.
So, while the recruitment landscape will continue to change as technology augments work, people will always be crucial in creating trust between candidate, recruiter and client.
