What Is Recruitment?
What Is Recruitment?
Recruitment is the overall process an organisation uses to attract, identify, assess, and select candidates for a job role. It covers everything from defining the role to making the final hiring decision.
The Recruitment Process (Step-by-Step)
Step 1 - Identify the Hiring Need
The company recognises a gap and this step defines what role is needed and why.
Step 2 - Create or Update the Job Description
A job description typically includes:
- Key responsibilities
- Required skills and qualifications
- Experience needed
- Salary range (sometimes)
This ensures clarity for everyone involved.
Step 3 - Choose the Recruitment Strategy
The company determines if the requirement is internal or external, the shortlisting requirements and what interview techniques would be necessary.
Step 4 - Advertise the Job
The role is posted on the company intranet, via internal memo, external job boards, and social media such as LinkedIn.
Step 5 - Collect and Review Applications
Recruiters review CVs, cover letters, and application forms as part of the first sift.
Step 6 – Candidate Shortlisting
This may involve questionnaires, interviews, or assessments to further refine candidates.
Step 7 - Interviews
Conducted by HR or hiring managers depending on the role.
Step 8 - Candidate Evaluation and Decision
Interviewers compare findings and select the best candidate.
Step 9 - Job Offer
A formal offer and contract are provided to the selected candidate.
Recruitment is the initial stage in the employment process. The next stage is screening the applicant and we will explore this further in the next section.