Developments in Internet technology are revolutionising the way people search for new jobs.
More dedicated on-line job sites are being launched where job seekers can apply directly to an employer by sending them their CVs.
Examples include monster jobs.co.uk, topjobs.com and stepstone.com. However, recruitment consultants Harp Wallen director Carol Hilton warns that these sites have their limitations particularly when it comes to the travel industry.
“There is definitely a place for these sites in some industries, such as information technology, where qualifications and experience are pre-requisite to getting a job,” said Hilton.
“In travel, however, personality is crucial. An interactive site cannot assess personality and managers will only find out if a candidate is suitable at interview stage, which can waste a lot of time.”
This is where recruitment consultants will continue to play a role, explains Hilton. “Recruitment consultants do all the intermediary procedures so only suitable parties meet up.”
Nevertheless, this does not mean that recruitment consultants are ignoring new technology. In reality a number of them are embracing it by launching their own sites.
Most are a platform for candidates to see what jobs are available.
They can register and send their CVs into the consultants who then invite candidates in for initial interviews and place them in suitable jobs.
“The main impact that I see the Internet having is it will speed things up dramatically because candidates can instantly see for themselves what jobs are available rather than having to waituntil such time as they are advertised in the newspaper,” said Hilton.