An Exploration of the Use of Online Technology to Improve the Recruitment and Selection Process at a TVET College

Abstract

Sourcing talent in a competitive labour market with a short supply of skilled labour is a difficult task for the human resource team and senior managers at the TVET College in this study. The purpose of this study is to explore the use of online technology to improve the recruitment and selection process at the College.  The current approach to recruitment and selection was identified and the effectiveness of the recruitment sources used by the College in relation to its cost and reach was analysed. A comparative analysis of the current approach to recruitment and selection and the current trends in e-recruitment in terms of technological advancement was undertaken. The study also makes recommendations regarding the integration of e-recruitment tools to enhance the process. A phenomenological, qualitative research paradigm was adopted.  The findings revealed the deficiencies and negative perceptions of the participants with regards to the current approach to recruitment and selection.  Current trends revealed that the Internet eliminates the deficiencies identified in the traditional approach and is becoming the preferred way to attract candidates with scarce skills and has several benefits (speed, reduced administrative burden, reduced costs and global reach). Findings also revealed that potential applicants may have limited or no access to the Internet, or that some applicants may not be as technology savvy to be able to complete online applications. Thus, the traditional methods of recruitment and selection cannot be totally replaced; hence the recommendations to adopt a hybrid approach to source a wider pool of candidates.