The future of work: Top 5 trends in AI and recruitment

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Advances in technology are impacting how we find, develop, and retain qualified individuals, and AI is increasingly being used to streamline and improve the hiring process in many ways. Globally, organizations are already using AI in recruitment – but the sentiment online is mixed.  

While people can see the benefits of AI – including improved efficiency, reduced bias and improved candidate matching – concerns arise around the overall lack of human interaction and the potential to unintentionally discriminate against candidates based on demographics such as age and propensity to effectively use the AI tools required to apply for roles, such as screening questionnaires and testing.  

In general, however, there is cautious optimism about AI in recruitment – if it is used responsibly and ethically, with the human touch included in key stages such as interviews and decision-making. 

Here are the top 5 trends to watch: 

1. Personalized candidate journeys. AI chatbots create a personalized experience for applicants by answering in-session questions, providing suggestions, and guiding them through the application process. While the human touch is important, this kind of hands-on support at crucial stages of the application process can improve the candidate’s experience and create a positive brand perception as well. 
2. Automated job advertising. Programmatic job advertising uses algorithms to analyze job data and optimize the ad placement for the best reach – targeting perfect candidates in a more streamlined and effective way.  
3. Focus on skills, not keywords. While much has been said about Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and the need for applicants to accurately match keywords and phrases within their resume to the job description, AI can analyze a wider range of data than just keywords on a resume and gives a more holistic view of the candidate’s skills and experience – looking beyond the “perfect” wording at the context and content.  
4. AI-powered talent rediscovery. The talent market is constantly changing, and previous high-performing employees often return to previous companies. AI tools can scan your ATS to identify these individuals, allowing companies to re-engage them for open positions.  
5. Gamified assessments. Engaging and interactive assessments created by AI provide a more dynamic way to evaluate a candidate. Some of these assessments are played like games – simulating real-world job scenarios that assess someone’s skills and suitability for the role based on how they react within the simulated environment.