Recruitment, like so many other industries in this day and age, is rapidly evolving. The traditional image you might have is a consultant sitting at their desk making phone call after phone call, tirelessly searching for that perfect role in which to place their candidate.

This all changed as technology advanced and job boards increased, which enabled candidates to do their job hunting mostly by themselves. Although it didn't replace the traditional recruiter, it certainly changed the landscape.

Since then, there's been another huge shift, particularly in the area of candidate experience. So what's changed? And what's the impact on the world of recruitment?

Candidates are in control

The biggest change in recruitment over the last 10 years is that employers no longer have complete power over the job search. A decade ago, it was applicants who had to show off their talents. It was relatively easy to headhunt on LinkedIn and job adverts proved highly successful. But today, the tables have turned. Employers must now focus on drawing in top talent by competing in the way candidates used to.

Today's candidates know what they want from employers – and they'll ask for it. This new power dynamic makes it more necessary than ever for companies to be transparent, even at the earliest application stages.

It's now paramount that we make job seekers aware of what a company has to offer them in terms of salary, benefits, and company culture before they get close to the interview stage. This type of sincerity not only attracts more candidates but the right person for the role and organisation.

The hiring process is more flexible

Hiring managers have realised that if you want the attention of top tier talent, you can't make them bend over backwards for your hiring process. This is why scheduling interviews outside office hours, or allowing them to do video interviews when it suits their schedule are becoming popular options.

Additionally, many hiring managers are now moving through the talent acquisition process as swiftly as possible. Years ago, you could be waiting months for interview feedback and if you didn't get the job, you might never hear back at all.

Here at Morgan Consulting, we understand that as soon as a position is filled, those who weren't chosen deserve the courtesy of an email or phone call so they can continue on with their job search.

The pace is quicker

Before mobile phones and the internet became ubiquitous, recruiting a role was a lengthy, tedious task. With most people at work during the day, this made it very difficult to arrange interviews, collect feedback and make negotiations during the offer stage. Start dates were often delayed as well because offer letters and contracts were posted, signed and then sent back to the employer.

Now thanks to smartphones and emails, it couldn't be easier to get hold of people regardless of where they are or what time of day it is. Important documents can also be emailed and signed off in a matter of minutes which means that it's now not uncommon for candidates to start new jobs immediately.

A relationship focused approach

Applicants are no longer mailing hundreds of recruiters in hope of receiving a single phone call (or vice versa). The job search is a lot more personal now. Today, it's more about building relationships and connecting with employers through networks and communities.

As a result, your biggest advantage is that if you have a watertight relationship with a trusted recruitment consultant, you no longer have to search for your perfect job.

Personally, I get to know my candidates along with their career goals and motivations, so when I see a job opportunity that's in your interest, I'll make sure I let you know about it straight away. In effect, the job comes to you. No mess, no fuss.

If you would like to start mapping out your next career move, here's 3 things you can do:

Submit your resume and register on our website to receive tailored job alerts;

Follow us on LinkedIn;

Give me call on 0477 112 101 or contact me via email on kbusuttil@morganconsulting.com.au today