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Navigating the Talent Surge: How HR Leaders Can Stay Ahead of the Hiring Chaos

Streamline hiring, manage high applicant volumes, and stay ahead in today’s job market. 


Between October and December of 2023, the average number of applicants per hire was 72 (PinpointHQ). Today, that average has surged to 118—a whopping 64% increase (Hollywood Gazette). With job postings drawing in higher volumes of candidates, HR leaders face unprecedented pressure to manage, screen, and hire efficiently. As competition for talent intensifies, recruitment process outsourcing (RPO) offers a powerful solution, streamlining hiring and helping businesses stay ahead in this saturated market.

As the talent pool grows, so do the complexities of managing high volumes of applications. Sorting through hundreds of resumes, coordinating interviews, and ensuring a seamless candidate experience can overwhelm even the most experienced HR teams. Compounding this challenge, nearly 50% of US job seekers turn down a job offer due to a bad interview experience (PWC). As a result, organizations risk wasting valuable time and significant resources during these unprecedented times.

So, what can organizations do to be proactive and manage the talent surge effectively? Here are our top 5 strategies to consider:

  1. Leverage technology: Utilize applicant tracking systems (ATS) and AI-powered tools such as SeekOut or Entelo to automate resume screening and streamline communication with candidates.
  2. Optimize job descriptions: Clearly outline job responsibilities and qualifications to filter candidates more effectively, ensure job ads are free from bias, and utilize tools like Textio to enhance inclusivity and clarity.
  3. Improve interview processes: Standardize interview questions and evaluation criteria to ensure consistency and efficiency while providing positive candidate experience.
  4. Hire for skills, not just experience: Shift focus towards hiring candidates based on their transferable skills rather than just experience. This opens opportunities to enhance soft skills and foster a more adaptable, well-rounded workforce.
  5. Engage with talent communities: Build and nurture relationships with potential candidates even when you’re not actively hiring. By doing so, you’ll have a pool of qualified candidates ready when opportunities arise.

Many of our clients in the US and across the globe are experiencing the pressures of navigating the current talent surge. Consider the experience of one of our clients in the banking sector. Prior to the talent surge, we implemented a bespoke talent acquisition strategy tailored specifically to their unique hiring challenges and organizational goals. This customized approach equipped their team with the tools and resources needed to navigate high volumes of applications effectively. With our AI-enabled recruitment systems, we helped automate key hiring functions, streamline candidate communication, and enhance their ability to build a strong talent pipeline.

As the job market shifted and applicant numbers surged, our client was able to adapt swiftly, managing the influx of candidates while maintaining a positive candidate experience. This success story demonstrates how we help organizations remain competitive, even in turbulent times, by ensuring they have the strategies and tools in place to thrive.

“Every client we work with is unique, and we take pride in tailoring our solutions to meet their specific needs. Whether it’s about helping organizations sift through high volumes of applications to identify the best talent or leveraging those volumes to build a talent community for future opportunities, we empower organizations of all shapes and sizes to adapt quickly to talent surges while ensuring a positive candidate experience.”

Dawn Sloan, Executive Vice President of Client Services at Robert Walters.

In today’s competitive landscape, navigating the talent surge requires more than just traditional hiring methods, it demands a strategic approach tailored to your organization's unique needs.

By choosing Robert Walters, you gain a strategic partner dedicated to elevating your recruitment process. From advanced analytics and cutting-edge technology to a deep understanding of your business needs, we are here to support your growth and success.

Partner with us and transform your talent acquisition strategy today.

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