recruitment

Recruitment is the process of identifying and attracting individuals who may be suitable for employment opportunities within an organization. The goal is to create a pool of qualified candidates and to select the person whose skills, experience, and potential best fit the role and the organization’s needs. Effective recruitment aligns with workforce planning, organizational strategy, and legal and ethical standards.

The process typically begins with workforce planning and job analysis to define roles and requirements. Organizations may recruit internally, promoting or transferring current employees, or externally, seeking candidates through various channels. The recruitment cycle usually includes sourcing, screening, interviewing, evaluating candidates, extending offers, and facilitating onboarding.

Sourcing and channels vary and can include internal mobility, employee referrals, job postings, career sites, social media, recruitment agencies, campus programs, and job fairs. Employer branding and candidate experience influence the quality and diversity of applicants.

Selection involves screening resumes, assessing qualifications, interviewing (often structured or competency-based), and conducting tests or assessments when appropriate. Background checks and reference checks may be performed. The process should conform to legal standards, ensure fairness, and promote diversity and inclusion.

Metrics such as time-to-fill, cost-per-hire, and quality of hire help evaluate recruitment effectiveness. Trends in recruitment include digital sourcing, data-driven decision making, automation and AI-assisted screening, enhanced candidate experience, and broader emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion and remote or flexible work arrangements.