Recruiters! Are you getting the best from your applicants?

As a recruiter, it is important to understand today's job market reality and the impact this has on the job applicants.

Though there are plenty of jobs being advertised via different job sites, the reality is that recruiters receive such high volumes of applications that most of the applicants don't even make it to the next stage. Yet each applicant will have spent over an hour repeating their details for the 100th time on yet another application form.

Now imagine if you were an applicant who has applied for 30 jobs in the last month. You will have spent over 30 hours completing application forms which all ask for the same details - name, address, work experience, education background, etc. Of those 30 jobs, you may have been lucky to get 1 or 2 interviews, for which the applicant needs to prepare so they can fit in with the expectations of the employer. A misfit from the employers perspective leads - if you are lucky - to some feedback on your 'performance' at the interview, though really another rejection. Imagine how you might feel after 3 months? Will you have any enthusiasm for completing another application form?

The perspective I wish to convey is one of 'wasted' time and energy due to duplication, and its impact on an applicant's enthusiasm, motivation and engagement.

Now if you allow me, here are two alternative scenario which will lead to better outcomes all round.

What if an applicant can send their CV with a higher quality personal statement? Or what if organisations could 'headhunt' people at all levels of the organisation?

The first is a very practical way in which recruiters can help applicants today. It helps applicants as it reduces the time spent duplicating information on application forms, while more time and energy can be given to a better quality personal statement which really sells the persons' suitability for the role and gives more time to look for other jobs. This ability to redirect energy to improving quality and volume of applications in turn will lead to more  opportunities and less loss of enthusiasm along the way.

The second is one of recruiters educating the applicants they come into contact with. Recruiters have a role to prepare people for the future, and - though many organisations are still fighting it with tooth and nail - social media is here to stay and is helping to change the world of work forever. It is helping us all to get better at celebrating our achievements. Some forward thinking organisations are already using websites such as Linked In and Google searches to great affect, seeking out and attracting individuals with unique skills, knowledge and experience into their organisation. This trend is growing rapidly across many industries who understand the empowering value of the internet.

My advice to recruiters and organisations who seek to recruit is to consider the proposed changes, not only to help applicants but to ensure you don't miss out on the unique individuals whose skills, knowledge and experience would add value to your organisation and help it thrive and survive!