Against a backdrop of redundancies, business liquidations and as the wider effects of the COVID-19 plays out across the global talent pool, we re-enter the previously trodden path of a “candidate rich market” - many candidates, for fewer jobs. For my whole career it has always been feast or famine with the power base pivoting between client / candidate at lighting speed and as such Jonny tame recruiter needs to pivot equally fast to remain relevant.
6 months ago, we couldn't buy an application, the lazy recruiter hid behind Linked In spam and exhausting Job board credits. The savvy recruiters were out there nurturing the passive community (the non-jobseeker). Roll on 6 months the lazy recruiter is 'processing' active candidates, adding the thin veil of value through a cut n pasted coversheet, while the savvy recruiters add extra layers of robust referencing and testing to guide the very best talent through their multiple applications..
6 months ago, the value a recruiter added in the war for talent was clear for all to see, now there is significantly less clarity. We must elevate the process from admin to selection, from pass through to criteria from volume to DAB from noise to talent. Clients are arguing rightly or wrongly that they can do without our trade...so add the value I know our industry can, the coversheet won't cut it.
Employers let me urge you to concentrate on your employer branding, the candidate experience and selection criteria - it will change around again and those that 'get it right' in this market will benefit greatly in the next.
Candidates I urge you to stand out from crowd, respect every application (not volume applications/ think about each one individually), and if given the chance put your best foot forward, and be mindful to expect some extra steps in selection stages to determine your fit over the likely competition.
Come senators, congressmen
Please heed the call
Don't stand in the doorway
Don't block up the hall
For he that gets hurt
Will be he who has stalled
The battle outside ragin'
Will soon shake your windows
And rattle your walls…