Five ways AI is changing the recruitment industry

Five ways AI is changing the recruitment industry

Artificial Intelligence is changing how we work, influencing almost every aspect of our lives. But how is it used to sharpen recruitment practices?

By Tim Gibson

Everyone knows that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the greatest technological advance of a generation. By simulating human thought processes in machines, it’s possible to enjoy the benefits of automation without losing the personal touch.

AI can be used to identify potential job hunters and cross-match their skills and qualifications with vacancies.  

AI is reshaping pretty much every sphere of human activity, from self-driving cars like the Robocar that successfully completed Goodwood’s Hillclimb last year to fridges like the LG ThinQ that suggests recipe ideas on the basis of what’s stored inside.

So it is no surprise that the technology is also shaping business practices – and recruitment is foremost among them.

To help you understand how AI is changing recruitment, here are five ways that the technology is being used in the industry.

1) Improving interactions with potential candidates

You’ll probably be accustomed to the little welcome message that pops up when you visit a consumer website, asking if you have any questions or want to talk. It appears on all manner of platforms, from car dealerships to online retailers, utilities providers to insurance firms.

Get involved in a chat and you’ll feel very much as if you’re engaging with a real-life human being. But more often than not, you’ll actually be interacting with a “chatbot”. This is a computer programme that responds to certain cues in what you write to give the impression of a human conversation.

Recruiters can use chatbots to give potential candidates a personal experience right from their first encounter.

If you’re advertising a vacancy online, a chatbot can invite visitors into a conversation, perhaps asking if they have particular questions or want to find out more. This creates a strong first impression and may yield more interest in the job.

2) Identifying candidates

Even if candidates don’t interact with a recruiter via their website, AI can be used to identify potential job hunters and cross-match their skills and qualifications with vacancies.

Various software companies have created programmes that do just that. Just Recruitment Group Ltd Director and former IT consultant Peter Foy thinks it is only a matter of time before recruitment companies start writing their own programmes based on the data they hold.

“If you think of a company like Just Recruitment,” he says, “we have a wealth of data about individuals, which they’ve consented for us to hold and process. By crunching that data, we can cross-refer to the jobs we’re currently advertising, and be proactive in approaching the best candidates. It’s what good recruiters have done for generations. The difference is, nowadays a computer can do the hard work, making it quicker and easier to find the right people.

3) Filtering CVs

As well as identifying candidates, AI can be used to wade through a pile of CVs and select the best prospects, as this article from Forbes makes plain.

“CV filtering is a really good example of the efficiencies that AI can bring to the recruitment process,” says Mr Foy. “Traditionally, a recruiter or HR team would have to read candidates’ CVs in detail to create a long list. With the right algorithms, AI programmes can do this work in a heartbeat, ensuring only the best-qualified candidates make it through to interview.”

What’s more, says Mr Foy, AI can conduct this process in a completely unbiased fashion, ignoring personal details such as gender, age, ethnicity or sexual orientation. “Not only does that speed up the recruitment process. It also makes it a lot fairer.”

4) Conducting initial interviews

Talking of fairness, perhaps the most exciting innovation in the use of AI to enhance recruitment is as a tool for conducting unbiased interviews.

According to a BBC report, a Swedish company is working on a robot that can conduct face-to-face interviews that replicate human interaction, but without any risk of bias.

Furhat Robotics has designed the robot, called Tengai, to help recruiters select the very best candidates for second interviews. She asks a standard set of questions, but does so in a way that is responsive and friendly. She then filters candidates by reference to their answers, ensuring that the process is neutral and entirely transparent.

“The benefits of deploying a machine such as Tengai are multiple,” says Mr Foy. “It’ll be cheaper and more time-efficient to conduct initial interviews using a robot than a human, because a machine like Tengai won’t be distracted in the way a human being might be. We’ll also be a lot more certain that candidates are selected on the basis of their merits alone, rather than any unconscious bias on the part of the interviewer. That’s a really important improvement to the process.”

5) Shaping the future

In addition to selecting candidates for a current vacancy, AI will help improve the process in future.

“Each time an AI machine is used in finding a candidate for a job, it gains yet more data and intelligence about the process,” says Mr Foy. “With the right programming, that data can be used to predict what candidates are required for future jobs, and to reshape the process of identifying, filtering and interviewing them.

“In essence, as machines get smarter, they make it easier to hand-pick candidates, because they’ll learn what sort of a person works well for what sort of a job. They’ll do what good human recruiters do, but in a way that’s smarter, more timely and much cheaper. As a result, humans can focus on the final, nuanced part of recruitment, knowing that the candidates before them have been selected in an intelligent, neutral and highly efficient manner.”

 

If you enjoyed this article, you may also like:
Why it’s time for the recruitment industry to think big
10 jobs of the future

 

Published: 17 June 2024
© Copyright Just Recruitment Group Ltd 2024

Jobs currently available

New job
TIG Welder
Sector: Engineering and Manufacturing
Salary: £13.00 - £14.00 per hour
Location: Haverhill
Role: Full Time
Contract: Temporary to Permanent
Job ref: JT-HAV-TW-1124
About the role

Just Temps has an opportunity for experienced TIG Welders to join a company based in Haverhill, Suffolk.

This is a temp-to-perm opportunity role!

Salary: Starting at £13.00 + per hour (depending on experience).

Key responsibilities:

  • Perform precise TIG welding on a range of metals and materials.
  • Follow technical drawings and specifications accurately.
  • Inspect welds to ensure they meet quality and safety standards.
  • Maintain and operate welding equipment safely.
  • Collaborate with team members to meet production goals.

Role requirements:

  • Previous TIG welding experience is essential.
  • Ability to read and understand engineering blueprints.
  • Strong attention to detail and focus on quality workmanship.
  • Good communication skills and a team-oriented mindset.
  • Reliable with a strong work ethic.

What’s on offer:

  • Starting pay at £13.00+ per hour, with room for increase based on skills and experience.
  • A temp-to-perm opportunity with the potential for a long-term role.
  • A supportive and friendly working environment.

If you have experience in TIG welding and are looking for a new challenge in Haverhill, we want to hear from you!

 

Just Temps acts as an Employment Business for the supply of Temporary Staff.
The salary advertised is the bracket available for this position. The actual salary paid will be dependent on your level of experience, qualifications and skill set.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more
New job
TIG Welder
Sector: Engineering and Manufacturing
Salary: £13.50 - £14.00 per hour
Location: Halstead, Essex
Role: Full Time
Contract: Temporary to Permanent
Job ref: JT-HAL-TW-1124
About the role

Just Temps has an opportunity for experienced TIG Welders to join a company based in Halstead, Essex.

This is a temp-to-perm opportunity role!

Salary: Starting at £13.50 + per hour (depending on experience).

Key responsibilities include:

  • Perform high-quality TIG welding on various materials.
  • Read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings.
  • Ensure welds meet specifications and industry standards.
  • Inspect and maintain welding equipment for safety and efficiency.
  • Work effectively within a team to meet project deadlines.

Role requirements:

  • Proven experience in TIG welding (minimum 2 years preferred).
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
  • Reliable, punctual, and a team player.
  • Own PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) is an advantage.

This role offers:

  • Competitive hourly rate starting at £13.50 + with the potential to increase based on experience.
  • Opportunity to move from a temporary position to a permanent role.
  • A supportive work environment with room for professional growth.

If you are a reliable TIG Welder looking for a stable opportunity with potential for a permanent role, we’d love to hear from you!

 

Just Temps acts as an Employment Business for the supply of Temporary Staff.
The salary advertised is the bracket available for this position. The actual salary paid will be dependent on your level of experience, qualifications and skill set.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more
New job
Goods In Operative
Sector: Warehouse
Salary: £26,000 per annum
Location: Chelmsford
Role: Full Time
Contract: Permanent
Job ref: 913546
About the role

Just Recruitment has an excellent opportunity for a Goods In Operative to join a fast-growing company based in Chelmsford, Essex.

The company offers ongoing progression and training opportunities.

Duties will include:

  • Booking and accurately recording all incoming stock
  • Processing customer returns requests
  • Ensuring stock is all placed back in the correct location
  • Making sure all areas of goods are always kept organised and are compliant with health and safety rules
  • Basic testing of returned goods to identify any faults or defects
  • Assist with any warehouse tasks required – picking and packing orders, undertaking stock checks etc.
  • Updating Warehouse Management System (NetSuite)
  • Using a handheld scanner

Skills required:

  • Previous experience within a logistics distribution and supply chain company is preferred
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Basic understanding of computer systems
  • Able to lift stock of varying size and weight
  • Work effectively within a team environment
  • Forklift licence is preferred but not essential as training will be provided for the right candidate (bendi, counterbalance or reach)

Benefits:

  • Performance-based bonuses
  • 23 days annual leave
  • Training and development opportunities
  • Career progression opportunities
  • Friendly and supportive work environment

 

Just Recruitment acts as an employment agency for permanent roles.
The salary advertised is the bracket available for this position. 
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more
Administrator
Sector: Public Service and Administration
Salary: £26,000.00 - £26,769.60 per annum
Location: Colchester
Role: Full Time
Contract: Permanent
Job ref: JRG913600
About the role

Just Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a transport and logistics business based on the outskirts of Colchester - looking to add an Administrator to its existing team, due to internal promotion.

The key element of the role is to assist the customer journey throughout the organisation, ensuring that it is as smooth as possible, dealing with any issues as they arise and preparing all required documentation. You will be providing all admin support competently and confidently.

Key duties include:

  • Carry out the data entry of information onto the relevant system, identifying and resolving any discrepancies and preparing all documentation relating to the movement/transportation of goods accurately and efficiently to deliver high customer service levels.
  • Communicate effectively and promptly to all relevant external and internal clients to maintain the key flow of information.
  • Answer and direct queries promptly and in a professional manner providing accurate information to ensure excellent customer service is being delivered.
  • Complete general administrative duties efficiently and effectively to deliver a world-class service.
  • Maintain relevant system by accurately inputting the required data, in addition to checking and reconciling data where appropriate and identifying and resolving any discrepancies to ensure 100% accuracy.
  • Update, produce and communicate all business KPI’s to monitor service delivery levels.
  • Work as part of a team and participate in cross-training initiatives to provide effective cover in a colleague’s absence.
  • Operate a high standard of general housekeeping and work in a safe manner complying with all health and safety regulations to maintain a clean, safe and tidy working environment.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a business offering a competitive package, further training and development and free parking is available on-site.

Due to the nature of the business - working hours are Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm - some flexibility if offered.

 

Just Recruitment acts as an employment agency for permanent roles.
The salary advertised is the bracket available for this position. The actual salary paid will be dependent on your level of experience, qualifications and skill set.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more
Warehouse Operative
Sector: Warehouse
Salary: £11.50 - £12.10 per hour
Location: Bury St. Edmunds
Role: Full Time
Contract: Permanent
Job ref: 913542
About the role

Just Recruitment is recruiting for a Warehouse Operative on behalf of a company based near Bury St. Edmunds.

You will be responsible for carrying out warehouse tasks as required by the Line Manager/Supervisor.

You will have qualifications to operate PPT (Pivot Steer, Counterbalance, VNA preferred).

Shifts available:

  • 6.00am to 2.30pm at £11.50 per hour.
  • 8.00am to 4.30pm at £11.50 per hour.
  • 2.30pm to 11.00pm at £12.10 per hour requiring a PPT licence.

Duties include:

  • Operate MHE safely and effectively according to requirements.
  • Unloading goods in.
  • Checking in goods.
  • Putting away products and keeping the warehouse tidy.
  • Picking products as per customer orders.
  • Checking orders and ensuring accuracy.
  • Packing orders to ensure safety in delivery.
  • Loading deliveries.
  • Undertaking any other duties as may be required.

Qualifications and skills required:

  • Good level of numeracy and literacy.
  • Basic PC skills.
  • Knowledge of company health and safety policy.
  • Housekeeping awareness.
  • Qualifications to operate PPT (Pivot Steer, Counterbalance, VNA preferred).
  • Physically active.

 

Just Recruitment acts as an employment agency for permanent roles.
The salary advertised is the bracket available for this position. The actual salary paid will be dependent on your level of experience, qualifications and skill set.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more
Toolroom Machinist
Sector: Engineering and Manufacturing
Salary: Discussed on application
Location: Clacton-on-Sea, Essex
Role: Full Time
Contract: Permanent
Job ref: 913541
About the role

Just Recruitment is working with a stable engineering business based in Clacton-on-Sea with a bulging order book—looking to add a Toolroom Machinist to its team on a permanent basis.

The purpose of the role, is to work with the wiser business team, operating and setting machines, in order to fulfil and meet business production targets.

Key requirements and duties include:

  • Working within company health, safety and environmental policy and practices.
  • Machining in preparation for the manufacture, service and repair of tooling as instructed by the department supervisor.
  • Working within all company quality procedures to ensure tooling meets customer requirements every time.
  • Ability to read and understand technical drawings.
  • Ability to problem solve with an analytical approach.
  • Assessment of tooling following any unplanned downtime.
  • Basic understanding of tool design and associated software packages.

Type of equipment you will be expected to work with includes:

  • Mills
  • Lathes
  • CNC
  • Grinders

Working hours are: 8.00am to 4.30pm, Monday to Thursday and 8.00am to 3.30pm on Fridays.

 

Just Temps acts as an Employment Business for the supply of Temporary Staff.
The salary advertised is the bracket available for this position.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more
CNC Punch Operative
Sector: Engineering and Manufacturing
Salary: £13.00 per hour
Location: Sudbury, Halstead
Role: Full Time
Contract: Temporary to Permanent
Job ref: JT-SUHA-PO-1124
About the role

Just Temps is seeking a CNC Punch Operative for a company based in Sudbury, (you must be able to travel to Halstead).

This is a temp-to-perm opportunity role.

Salary: £13 per hour + (depending on experience).

About the role:

You will be proficient in operating CNC punch machines, have a strong understanding of metalworking, and be able to read and interpret technical drawings accurately. This role is crucial for ensuring that high-quality production standards are met.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Operate CNC punch press machinery to produce parts according to specifications.
  • Read and interpret technical drawings and engineering schematics accurately.
  • Select and set up appropriate tools, dies, and punches for each job.
  • Ensure all products meet quality standards and specifications.
  • Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting of the machines.
  • Monitor machine operations to ensure optimal performance and output.
  • Perform quality checks on finished products to verify precision and adherence to technical drawings.
  • Maintain a clean and safe working environment, following all safety guidelines and protocols.

Qualifications and skills required:

  • Previous experience working with CNC punch machines or similar machinery.
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings.
  • Knowledge of various metals and materials used in fabrication.
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work.
  • Ability to work independently as well as in a team environment.
  • Basic computer skills for operating machine interfaces and software.
  • Good problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot machine issues.
  • Understanding of health and safety regulations in a manufacturing environment.

Desirable skills:

  • Experience in sheet metal fabrication or manufacturing environments.
  • Familiarity with CAD/CAM software.

What the role offers:

  • Competitive hourly rate with the potential for a permanent contract.
  • Opportunities for career development and training.
  • A supportive work environment with a strong focus on safety.


Just Temps acts as an Employment Business for the supply of Temporary Staff.
The salary advertised is the bracket available for this position. 
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more