RANDSTAD REIMAGINES RECRUITMENT FOR THE DIGITAL AGE WITH ‘HUMAN FORWARD’ STRATEGY

In the age of artificial intelligence, apps and big data, job seekers are increasingly frustrated with the automation of their job search - which is fundamentally built on human connection. Leading recruitment and HR services specialist, Randstad, is bringing humanity back to the tech-driven world of human resources with the launch of its new business strategy - Human Forward. The new direction is designed to solve candidate and client frustrations by cleverly marrying high tech processes with the humanity inherent within talent acquisition. 

Research conducted by Randstad Australia reveals that while technology has made the job search process easier than ever, it has also become more impersonal as a result of automation. In fact, 64 percent of candidates say they are often frustrated with overly-automated job search experiences that lack the personal touch. 

Frank Ribuot, CEO at Randstad Australia, said the company is leading the market when it comes to reimagining recruitment in response to the rise of automation and the changing expectations of job seekers. 

“We are redefining recruitment and the HR industry in the digital age. Whilst others provide faceless tech platforms, or outdated approaches to recruitment, our team have created a unique approach to talent acquisition sitting at the intersection of humanity and technology. The future of recruitment is in striking a balance between technology and the human touch, providing a seamless experience for both clients and candidates,” he said.

Randstad’s research also revealed:

• 56 per cent of candidates agree technology has made the job search process significantly more effective

• 61 per cent believe the job search process has become more impersonal as a result of technology

• 71 per cent want to work with companies that use technology to enhance their experience while still focusing on the human connection

Mr Ribuot has challenged other recruitment firms to redefine their outdated approach which leaves a candidate’s job search experience to the wayside. 

Randstad saw strong growth in the 2017 financial year, with an additional 130 consultants hired across the country from 2016 to 2017. The Human Forward strategy is expected to continue this momentum, as the company focuses on the growing HR technology sector. 

One of the most active segments for investment, HR technology attracted approximately US$2.2 billion in funding in 2016. Randstad recently announced a strategic alliance with Australian startup Puffling, an innovative job-pairing platform that’s connecting employers and candidates looking for flexible working arrangements. 

Globally, Randstad is leading the industry in embracing and adopting HR technology, having invested €50M in venture capital to startups such as HackerRank and Pymetrics through its dedicated Randstad Innovation Fund. A gamification platform, Pymetrics is a pioneer in using big data, neuroscience and gamification to draw personal career and job recommendations.

Mr Ribuot said that embracing technology - while keeping the business human-driven - will provide Randstad the opportunity to create value, solve seemingly impossible problems and drive strong financial performance for the company.

“Working with innovative partners like Puffling and Pymetrics, we’re changing the recruitment game and creating a more engaging, seamless and ultimately successful experience for both job seekers and employers. This new business strategy will spearhead our momentum in the market as the HR technology sector continues to grow,” he said. 

For more information on Randstad’s Human Forward approach, head to https://www.randstad.com.au/moving-people-forward/