Recruitment and staffing in the UK have proudly established themselves as essential to the economy. However, the industry is now entering a transformative phase shaped by technology. Evolving social expectations of candidates, rapid technological advancements, shifting demographics, and expanding client demands redefine how we are required to operate. As senior recruitment experts, we stand upon a solid foundation and must now navigate uncharted waters. This is a moment of opportunity, where we have the chance to reshape the landscape and exceed all expectations. Embracing the convergence of these forces, we rise to the challenge and forge a new path forward.

Download the Tech-enabled Humanity Report

Recruiters wish they had more time to engage, and candidates want better engagement.  Deeper automation, and targeted, managed use of artificial intelligence can help that.

In the market today there are many existing software solutions that use machine learning to:

• Source best-fit candidates through job-matching and scoring capabilities, using machine learning and natural language processing models to reduce time and speed to fill open positions. And to improve their hiring attraction pipeline for client talent pools.
• Screen by scoring and ranking candidates based on defined criteria – from text applications to CV-ranking, to emotion detection.
• Perform automated background checks.
• Organise and schedule interviews using chatbots and calendar integrations to automatically coordinate interviews and other meetings.

Download the Tech-enabled Humanity Report

Amidst the sweeping wave of digital transformation across all sectors, recruitment is undergoing a significant evolution. Technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and blockchain are reshaping the recruitment landscape, automating processes, and elevating the precision and efficiency of talent acquisition. As recruiters, it is crucial to grasp the full scope of these advancements, understanding their relevance and practicality, while always recognising that our industry fundamentally revolves around people.

We have to strike the right balance, we must be "digital where it matters, human where it counts."

This section aims to shed light on the existing technological tools employed in the recruitment industry while offering a forward-looking perspective on the transformative technologies that are yet to be widely embraced. For recruiters of all sizes, this presents both an opportunity and a challenge.

Download the Tech-enabled Humanity Report

Recruiters have a unique opportunity to become powerful platforms in the digital age. Platforms facilitate value exchange and connect people, enabling transactions, content creation, and innovative services.

Building a successful technology platform is challenging, as companies often underestimate the complexities of monetisation and overlook the importance of a complementary ecosystem. Despite the challenges, recruiters are well-positioned to embrace the platform model. Success hinges on factors like demand, supply, and trust. By incorporating these elements, recruiters can unlock untapped potential and revolutionise talent acquisition. By transforming into dynamic ecosystems, recruiters can meet the needs of candidates and employers while fostering trust.

Recruiters must understand that transitioning to platforms is more than just moving operations online. By recognising the power of platforms, recruiters can leverage technology and human expertise to create transformative experiences. Embracing the platform approach enables recruiters to unlock new opportunities, reshape the recruitment landscape, and forge meaningful connections. The time has come for recruiters to seize the platform revolution and unleash their full potential in the digital realm.

Download the Tech-enabled Humanity Report

This work is the part fulfilment of a commitment the REC made to our members as we came out of the Pandemic. We said that business advice, alongside standards and campaigning, would be at the heart of the REC. Since then, the business advice sections of the REC website have become among the most visited content we offer.

This report takes the next step in that process. In 2023, the debate about how technology will reshape work – and recruitment businesses – has dominated the discussion. From the press to our regular meet-ups around the UK, it is a question the REC has been asked numerous times.

We are huge optimists about the future of our industry. But we still need to adapt as firms. That is why the REC has collaborated with the innovative boutique consultancy MH&A to deliver this report. MH&A exists to deliver exceptional outcomes for its clients, often by helping them think about how to innovate and adapt. This report is designed to help you with that. It is structured to help you think about your capacity for tech change, plan what you can do, and consider the longer-term direction of travel. It’s the beginning of a journey, not the destination.

We look forward to taking that journey by your side. As Andy Warhol said, “They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself.”

From the smallest firm to the largest, whatever your starting point, we hope this report helps you make some important changes that will help you grow and compete in this fast-changing world of technological development. All the best to you and your business.