Virtual recruitment is the title given to the hiring process when performed entirely remotely without any means of face-to-face communication. Across almost all industries, the pandemic has driven businesses to take significant strides in their digitalisation efforts. Digital recruitment tools were already on the rise, but the last 18 months has accelerated their use. Allow our experts to guide you through the relatively novel concept of virtual recruitment.
How is Technology Changing the Recruitment Process?
Technology has tangible and intangible benefits for every business, regardless of size, and its rapid adoption is the biggest enabler of virtual recruitment. Here are some of the ways technology is commonly used in recruitment today:
- Virtual job search resources, such as websites or virtual events
- Virtual interviews using video conferencing software
- Remote collaboration using recruitment software
- Employee onboarding technology, such as electronic signature software
Businesses are choosing to take advantage of these technologies in order to save time and money while extending and optimising their pool of candidates. Virtual recruitment gives an employer access to talent in multiple geographic locations because travel expenses and other logistical issues are no longer relevant.
Virtual Recruitment Strategies for Employers
The goal of virtual recruitment is the same as any form of recruitment: to acquire skilled workers to meet your organisational needs. As you migrate your recruitment process online, it’s important to keep your existing philosophy intact. Make it a priority to reinforce your company brand and values throughout the recruiting and onboarding process and consider applying the following strategies:
- Host a video conferencing meeting with prospective candidates, hiring managers and various team members. This is a great way to connect with talent and give them a chance to learn more about the business.
- Speak to candidates on the phone. This a good opportunity to screen those with promising CVs and to learn as much as you can about the individual before deciding whether or not they are someone you want to pursue.
- Conduct a professional video interview. Provide candidates with clear directions of how to join the interview and prepare a set of questions in advance. These interviews also have the benefit of recording features so that other team members who aren’t present can review and share their feedback.
How to Succeed in a Virtual Interview
For candidates, virtual recruitment provides access to more jobs but also requires a level of technological knowledge in order to stand out from other candidates. We always advise candidates to dress appropriately, limit distractions and to test equipment beforehand, but above all else, we encourage candidates to be their authentic self!
For both employers and employees, those who take advantage of the opportunities that virtual recruitment presents are the most likely to reap its benefits. For any further advice, please do not hesitate to get in touch.