The use of WhatsApp in recruiting: opportunities, challenges and the way forward

27.9.2024
The search for new and efficient methods to attract talent and optimise the recruitment process is nothing new for recruiters. Some of them are asking themselves: Can Whatsapp offer a solution? And are there alternatives?

The search for new and efficient methods to attract talent and optimise the recruitment process is nothing new for recruiters. Some of them are asking themselves: Can Whatsapp offer a solution? And are there alternatives?

WhatsApp, originally intended as a communication channel for private messages, has also increasingly established itself in the field of recruitment. A recent survey of 82 HR managers and recruiters shows a split opinion on this topic: 35% are in favour of the use of WhatsApp in recruiting and have had good experiences, 45% are still sceptical and 20% are concerned about data protection.

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Opportunities for the use of WhatsApp in recruiting

WhatsApp can certainly serve as a valuable tool in the recruitment process. Experience shows that the direct and uncomplicated contact with applicants is often appreciated by both sides. This is what some HR professionals report:

Efficient communication: ‘I use WhatsApp to confirm appointments or write to applicants, especially if they prefer it. It's a practical tool for making quick arrangements.’

Speed: ‘After an initial phone call, it is often easier to take the next step, such as sending the CV via WhatsApp, instead of waiting for an email.’

Personalisation: ‘Applicants can contact us directly using QR codes on our trade fairs or shirts. It's a modern and uncomplicated way to get in touch with us.’

Data protection concerns: a necessary look at reality

Despite the positive aspects, there are legitimate concerns about data protection. While the business version of WhatsApp offers some advantages, such as the ability to delete chats after editing and set up automatic replies, data protection remains a key issue. It is recommended to create clear guidelines for handling data and to ensure that all data protection requirements are met.

But although WhatsApp has established itself as a practical tool in recruiting, metru is adding an innovative solution on top: metru's video-based recruiting tools optimise and complement the advantages of WhatsApp.

The next level: metru - the future of recruiting

Here are the advantages that metru offers:

1. Candidates via SWIPE: We offer the specialists that are needed. These profiles are usually accompanied by videos, making it easy to find the right candidate via SWIPE! 

2. effective pre-selection: With metru, it is possible - thanks to the short videos integrated into the application - to gain a first impression much more effectively - before the candidate is invited to a full interview. This saves time, as the cultural fit is easier to recognise and enables targeted pre-selection.

3. Better screening: metru's job code means that the really important questions are answered by video - uniformly for all participants. This results in excellent comparability of the results. 

4. 24/7 recruiting: The questions asked can be answered by the candidates at any time of day and from any location via video. This makes it possible to search for suitable candidates at any time without the need for lengthy appointments. 

If you already like the advantages of WhatsApp in recruiting, then definitely try out the video-based products from metru. Because metru is the perfect complement to take your strategy to the next level. The combination of audio-visual communication and advanced video technology offers an unbeatable solution for finding and attracting the best talent.

Book a non-binding consultation today, we look forward to hearing from you.