5 Ways Technology Can Reshape the Hiring Process

Digital transformation is changing the face of businesses across industries. It is the top priority of many organisations, and rightly so. In a recent news report by  The Mint, experts predicted that Indian firms could save $600 million annually. In many ways, the Covid-19 pandemic has proved that relying on disruptive technologies is the way ahead. Leading-edge technologies are not only helping companies become more efficient, cost-effective, customer-centric and agile, but they are also reshaping the hiring and recruitment processes.   

Engaging in the hiring process is the first interaction a candidate has with a company. This means that the process itself is a reflection of the organisation and a great indicator of what lies ahead. By adopting digital technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), automation, cloud computing, etc., for the hiring process, businesses can make the first right impression, demonstrate to the candidate that it is a forward-thinking business and attract the best talent.  

In fact, adopting emerging technologies can empower HR teams like never before. It can help them create a robust process, improve productivity and build a future-proof system. According to an  industry study, 68% felt investing in new recruiting technology is one of the best ways to improve recruiting, while 94% of HR professionals believe using recruitment software has positively impacted their hiring process. It is then no surprise that over 98% of Fortune 500 companies place their bet on digital hiring technologies.  

Let's take a look at five ways technology can transform hiring for businesses.   

1. Building efficiencies  

Embracing technologies has never been easier. With so many cloud-powered plug-and-play HR solutions readily available, businesses can support their HR teams to create a recruitment process that is super-efficient, transparent and fool-proof. It can help HR by automating mundane administrative tasks, increasing hiring speed, cutting down the cost of hiring, and more. Moreover, technology can increase the reach of HR professionals, giving them access to candidates across the globe. With the hybrid workplace becoming the new reality, geographical limitations are no longer an issue. With emerging communication and collaboration technologies, HR can screen, hire, onboard and train employees remotely.   

2. Data-driven checks   

Technologies such as data analytics and AI can make the process of background checks seamless and more accurate. From identity verification, checking previous employment to education checks, all of this can be automated. It can help HR managers sift through candidates faster, respond to potential hires quicker and make smarter hiring decisions. Leveraging data for background checks can thus help them save precious money and time.

3. Automated communication  

One of the most significant pain points for HR professionals and new hires is ineffective communication. With HR professionals juggling so many responsibilities, taking the time out for email correspondence is extremely time-consuming. On the other hand, poor or delayed communication from a company can turn off hires. Digital technologies can completely automate communication and free up HR professionals for more mission-critical jobs. Whether it is sending out acknowledgement emails, responding to unsuccessful candidates or scheduling follow-up meetings or interviews, new-age digital tools can do it all. 

4. Unbiased talent selection  

Digital hiring removes human bias in the selection of the right talent. While the more obvious biases are those based on gender, age, ethnicity, etc., there are many unconscious biases that can affect hiring. These include first impression bias, overconfidence bias, similarity attraction bias, and more. As much as the HR professional tries to be fair, there is always a possibility of an unconscious bias creeping in. Disruptive technologies such as ethical AI can reduce bias from hiring by only focusing on objective data and characteristics relevant to the success of the job and enable HR teams to make the best decision in the interest of the company.  

5. Digital onboarding  

The pandemic made remote working a reality. Even as we put the pandemic behind us, 82% of global leaders plan to take a hybrid workplace approach, as per  Gartner. In fact, remote working will only grow as businesses unravel its benefits on cost and productivity. In such a scenario, virtual onboarding becomes crucial. Digital technologies can help HR professionals onboard employees smoothly. From welcoming new hires, introducing them to their team leaders and co-workers, outlining their roles and responsibilities, familiarising them with the company's culture, to aligning them with the company's vision, digital onboarding can make the process very easy for the HR team and set up the employee for success.   

The future of hiring and recruitment is with digital technologies. Digital transformation can significantly elevate the entire HR and candidate experience when it comes to hiring talent. Hence, it is crucial for businesses to embrace disruptive technologies and partner with new-age hiring companies that leverage these technologies to ensure positive hiring outcomes. This can, without a doubt, streamline the role of HR, boost efficiencies, reduce time to hire, attract the most qualified people for the job and take the organisation closer to its goals.