07 January 2022 /

Hiring Trends to look out for in 2022

Last few years have seen significant changes in the recruitment process for both organizations and candidates. Accelerated use of technology, prompted by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic which lead to rapid adoption of hybrid and remote working have changed forever how companies will acquire and manage talent.   

Adding to the uncertainties of a global pandemic and the escalating unemployment rate (4.2 percent as of late 2021), and the fact that recruitment rules are now being rewritten, at the same time, the pandemic has opened new career pathways too. New trends and job interview statistics have emerged, and employers across the world are leaving no stone unturned to win and retain the right talent. 

With this dynamic backdrop, it can be unnerving to navigate the job market in 2022. Keeping your eyes on the latest job interview trends can give you a better idea of what employers expect and how you, as the candidate, should prepare  going into interviews for your dream role.    

Perfecting the remote recruitment process

The COVID-19 pandemic has sped up the transition to remote work, and in the new normal this work model will remain prevalent. With the pandemic still continuing, virtual recruitment has become the norm. While earlier, companies were gradually making the digital shift to reduce recruitment time-frame, now, using technology to conduct interviews is more out of compulsion. LinkedIn reports that 81% of recruiters feel virtual recruitment will continue even post-COVID.

The Gig Economy

While fostering the start-up economy in the country, Indian freelancers are also increasingly providing expertise to top-drawer corporations as business environments and needs evolve. An increasing number of people are opting for contractual employment or freelance opportunities, with an estimated 15 million people in India working as freelancers. With remote working conditions on the rise, the figures may be  even much higher than forecasted.

Diversity In Hiring.

The focus on diversity and inclusion in the workplace is shifting gears from just hiring people across various backgrounds to creating a work culture of fair treatment where every individual gets the opportunity to thrive and is valued equally. Companies are implementing formal sponsorship and mentorship opportunities, flexible work programs, etc., to promote a diverse culture. In India, there has been a 300% jump in job postings for women so far this year, according to data from a recently conducted survey.

Recruitment Through Referrals or Professional Networks.

Believe it or not, you’re most likely to learn about a job opening through a referral as companies are increasingly recruiting through their employees’ networks. In fact, statistics show that referrals increase the chance of a successful job match from 2.6 percent to 6.6 percent.

An Increasing Use of AI.

Companies have automated their hiring process with ATS. Predictive analytics to understand hiring needs, chatbots for interview scheduling, and AI for conducting interviews are some of the innovations that are now swamping the traditional recruitment process. These AI-based tools are capable of conducting structured, competency-based interviews, which eliminate the chances of human bias from the process.

The Preference for Cross-Functional Skills.

Candidates with cross-functional skills will be more in demand, owing to the simple fact that they are likely to have a more holistic view of the business. Candidates who wish to grow and companies that want to build a strong cross-functional team would do well to pursue training and mentor for such training, respectively.