Like most sectors in the UK economy, in recent years the recruitment industry has had to adapt to significant shifts and a raft of emerging trends that have transformed the way organisations attract and hire talent. In particular, the emergence of new technologies and shifts in objectives and values have led recruiters to adapt new strategies and tools to stay ahead in the competitive landscape.

With this in mind, we take a quick look at the four of the most significant recent changes within the industry and how they have impacted recruitment businesses:

1) Emphasis on diversity and inclusion

Employers are recognising the value of building diverse teams and are actively seeking candidates from different backgrounds and with broader life experiences. Diversity hiring initiatives, including blind resume screening and diverse interview panels, are gaining traction to ensure equal opportunities for all. Ensuring your practice is set up to give equal opportunities for all applicants is essential for attracting not only the best candidates but also the best clients.

2) Use of AI and automation

AI-powered tools are streamlining candidate sourcing, screening, and matching processes, saving time and effort for recruiters. Chatbots and virtual assistants are being used to engage with candidates, answer queries, and provide a personalised experience throughout the recruitment journey. Making use of the breadth of new technologies will allow your business to take advantage of the significant economies of scale on offer.

3) Flexible working and remote hiring

The Covid-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of remote working, and many organisations are now embracing hybrid or fully remote setups. In a similar manner, recruiters are adapting to virtual interviewing techniques, online assessments, and remote onboarding processes to cater to this new work shift. Being able to react quickly to different demands from both clients and candidates for their preferences will give you an advantage in this market.

4) Increased focus on candidate experience and employer branding

Companies are investing in enhancing their employer brand to attract top talent, utilising social media platforms and employee advocacy programs. Candidates are increasingly interested in the culture of companies as part of their search criteria. Therefore, providing a positive and seamless candidate experience, from application to onboarding, has become a crucial aspect for both in-house and external recruitment. Investment in maintaining the latest systems is therefore key.

It is important for your business to always be aware of the changes within your industry. Neglecting this and not being adaptable will cause you to fall behind competitors. As well as being able to advise you on selling, buying or funding the growth of your business, we are experts at keeping up with market trends and are always happy to provide advice on how you can take advantage of them.

Oliver Roper is an Assistant Manager - M&A at Shaw & Co

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