Firstly, let us tell you, recruitment isn’t what it used to be. Like an ever-spinning wheel of fortune, it’s continuously evolving, galloping along with the pace of innovation and societal change. If your recruitment strategy is still strolling about in the 2020s, it’s time for a wake-up call.
Recruitment consultants believe that 2024 is set to be an exciting year. We’re not talking minor tweaks here; we’re talking significant changes – ones that can completely redefine how we hire and work. Whether you’re part of a thriving company or a job-seeker eager to know what lies ahead, these are the recruitment trends to watch.
- More Conservative Application of AI in Recruitment
AI and automation technologies have been rewriting the standard recruitment playbook. They can quickly scan heaps of CVs, pick out the most promising candidates, and even schedule interviews. This frees up the time for recruiters to focus on the more human aspects of the job. So, instead of fearing the robot overlords, we’ve welcomed them with open arms.
But was this wise?
A recent survey has found that 87% of business leaders in the UK believe that AI is a valuable resource that can help relieve the pressures and stresses of recruitment practices. However, the unregulated use of algorithms in hiring processes has the potential to perpetuate discrimination. According to the EU AI directive, it is considered to be in the highest-risk category for civil liabilities in AI use.
Undoubtedly, we will see the continued rise of AI’s popularity in hiring processes. But because AI relies on the data it is fed by humans, where human bias or lack of diversity pre-exists, it can perpetuate the problems it intended to solve.
Ai is making life easier for candidates, too. The days of manual job-hunting and tedious CV tailoring are dwindling as generative AI can do all this for you at the touch of a button.
However, the potential risks of identity theft and data breaches are growing. If you’re not careful, AI could do more harm than good.
- The Continued Rise of the Remote Work Era
COVID-19 taught us a neat little trick – working in pyjamas isn’t bad (though it is best to throw on a jacket for those Zoom calls). We’ve learned that remote work isn’t just a temporary change but a viable, long-term recruitment strategy for many companies.
This new work dynamic is already reshaping the recruitment process. Interviews are conducted over virtual platforms, and HR departments are tasked to manage and engage an increasingly dispersed workforce. Candidate searches are less geographical and more focused on finding the right person for the job – widening nets in a critically under-resourced talent market.
While this means adapting to unfamiliar strategies and absorbing new risks, opening up a global talent pool is undoubtedly a boon for skills-starved employers.
- Spotlight on Soft Skills
Human qualities are becoming more critical in a world increasingly reliant on technology. It’s cool to code, but can you collaborate, create and, most crucially, care?
Recruitment consultants quickly realised the value of soft skills, moving some technical skills down the list in job specs. Empathy, adaptability, and communication are becoming key differentiators. So, shake off the notion that only hard skills sell; in 2024, the soft skills game is on.
Empathy is at the top of the list, particularly for aspiring managers. In 2024, employees will expect to feel heard and understood more than ever. The world of work expects managers to be caring, empathetic and inclusive. The days of a “command and control” leadership style are well behind us as we head towards a more collaborative approach to management. Managers will need to be able to spot the difference between their feelings and their team’s; they will also need to understand when it is appropriate or inappropriate for them to speak up. Recruiters will be looking for candidates who can demonstrate these skills in interviews, so candidates must prepare themselves accordingly.
Looking forward to a bright future for UK recruitment in 2024
The recruitment wheel is spinning, and it behoves all of us to keep up. The year 2024 is about to usher in exciting recruitment trends. The gutsier, smarter and more adaptable we are, the better we can ride this wave of unforeseen change and unlimited potential.
Ready to stay ahead of the competition in recruitment? Contact us today to learn how we can help you make waves in this turning tide and stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and best practices. Remember, the future of recruitment leans on anticipators, not procrastinators. So, what are you waiting for, 2025?
