Traditional recruitment has always been seen as a fairly slow process that is something of a drain on resources and is associated with a lot of paperwork and effort. This is why specialist recruitment software, and especially online recruitment software, has become increasingly popular.
Advantages of online recruitment software
Time savings
One of the key benefits is the amount of time that online software can save versus traditional methods. This applies throughout the process, from the creation of job descriptions and person specifications, using past examples and comparison with competitors, through to the automation of interview scheduling, which can be integrated with popular email platforms. This means a significant reduction in paperwork thanks to the digitalisation of the major steps.
Online software can also reduce the time that senior executives need to spend on the process, often limiting it to final interviews only.
Better access
With web-based systems, you can upload files from anywhere and update the system as decisions are made. The system can then automatically notify candidates and colleagues of these decisions/or any status changes.
Reduced hiring costs
Specialist recruitment software can significantly reduce recruitment costs, including advertising, travel expenses and third-party fees. Shortlisting is also quicker, which can save money by not having to pay staff to do it manually.
Efficiency
Online job adverts can be posted across several platforms, including social media, at the same time, eliminating duplication. Digitalisation also enables files to be sent and shared electronically, thus reducing the need for paperwork. Tests and assessment tasks can also be set/hosted on the online platform, so they can be taken from anywhere and reduce travel needs.
Wider pool of candidates
Recruitment software will help to reach a wider number of candidates, as online platforms can post job adverts on local, national and international job boards simultaneously. The fact that much of the recruitment process can be done online means that travel to interviews is not always necessary, which can bring more potential candidates within scope.
Filtration tools
Online recruitment systems have filtration tools built in to help you sort through applications according to the criteria you want to prioritise; for example, you could sort applications according to experience, then competencies, then qualifications/education.
Are there any downsides?
There are a few small downsides to using online recruitment software, but most can be mitigated. There is potential for a very large number of responses because the adverts are going to be seen so widely, and there may be an over-reliance on the technology being used.
How can it help remote working?
Recruitment teams/professionals can utilise online software to facilitate more effective remote working. It means they do not have to be based in one place; instead, they can work from home or any suitable site and can even conduct interviews on Zoom or similar platforms. Less face-to-face interviewing is needed, less paperwork is created, and even training can be completed digitally rather than in person.
