Technology has changed almost every industry - and recruitment is no exception.
From social networking sites and online job boards to video interviews, technology has transformed the recruitment experience for both clients and candidates alike.
So, if you’re currently searching for contract jobs abroad or are considering making a change in your career, here’s how technology has shaken up the recruitment process:
5 ways technology has changed recruitment:
1. The rise of social media
Social media has revolutionised the job hunting process. People can now connect with hiring managers and recruiters directly through social platforms, and there’s no doubt that social media has made it much easier to network within industries.
Of course, if you’ve been in the armed forces, it’s likely that you will have had a pretty low profile on social media due to strict social media policies, but when you leave, you’re free to use social media as you please, which means you can market yourself, your skills and your experience to potential employers online. Find out more about how to use social media to your benefit here.
2. You can really get to know the company
Another impact of the internet and technology is that candidates can get a good feel for companies they are applying to by doing a bit of research online. In fact, reading your potential employer’s blogs, tweets and Facebook posts can give you a really good idea of the culture and whether or not you would be a good fit.
Just remember that this works both ways though! 70% of employers screen candidates on social media before hiring them, whilst almost 70% of recruiters will use search engines to conduct background research into candidates - so it’s really important to be wary of what you post online.
3. There’s a global reach
Another impact of technology is that recruitment has truly become global. This is great news for job seekers, especially if your skillset isn’t in demand where you live. All you need is an internet connection and you can search for and apply for jobs anywhere in the world.
At M&E, we work with clients and candidates across the globe, including Europe, the Middle East, Asia and the USA - and because interviews can now be done over the internet, you don’t even have to travel long distances when you first interview for contract jobs abroad.
4. It’s easy to apply
Another way that technology has transformed recruitment is that it’s easier than ever to apply for jobs. You can now browse different roles and apply for jobs online or even via your mobile, whilst services such as ‘LinkedIn Apply’ allow people to read a job description, click apply and their CV is automatically sent to the company.
Of course, there are positives and negatives to this. Yes, it’s great that it’s easy to apply for positions - but that also means that there will be more candidates to compete against. Also, there’s no substitute for genuine interaction via phone calls, and sometimes hitting Quick Apply isn’t enough to make you stand out from the crowd.
With this in mind, it’s really important to make sure your CV and job application get you noticed. If you’ve been in the military, it’s likely that you won’t have an up-to-date CV, and if you’re struggling to write a CV that wows, don’t worry; this helpful download is full of CV writing tips if you’re not sure where to start!
5. It speeds up the process
Finally, because it is so much easier to apply for jobs these days, it means that response times are quicker, too. Technology has reduced the amount of time it takes for companies to submit, review and contact applicants, so you won’t spend weeks waiting around wondering if you’ve managed to land an interview.
What’s more, today’s technology also makes it easier to get work visas, too. So if you are searching for contract jobs abroad, you can get started more quickly in today’s world - though bear in mind that any reputable specialist recruitment company should be assisting you with visa requirements.
Are you looking for a job as an overseas contractor?
At M&E, we have over 20 years of experience and have a global reputation for the successful placement of overseas contract jobs in the defence sector. With expertise in the aviation, land and marine environments, our services include maintenance, repair, supply and logistics, transportation and admin support.
Our work is underpinned by our ethos for high-quality, responsive and cost-effective services and the rapid recruitment and deployment of contract workers - so, if you want to find out more about how we can help you find your perfect role, contact our team today.
