Data Watch

Online is the Place to Be for Recruiters and Jobseekers Alike

Jobseekers really are going online to find jobs—at least in Canada, where one in every three have found their most recent position through online means, according to a new study. Furthermore, Canadians are enjoying the online job search experience more than any other method, says the associated survey, which also explores Canadian jobseekers’ least favorite aspects of the recruitment process.

Thirty-two percent of workers in Canada found their most recent job by going online, the survey by Kelly Global Workforce Index of 11,000 workers in that country reveals—more than any other way. In contrast, 21% found work via “word of mouth,” 14% as a result of a direct approach to an employer, 13% through a direct call from an employer or recruiter, and another 13% through “other” methods. In a reflection of the times, only 8% say they found their most recent job through the hard copy newspaper classifieds.

Moreover, candidates consider online recruitment to be a better way to find a job, with 71% pleased with the outcome compared with 57% of respondents satisfied with traditional written and posted applications.

The worst aspect of the recruitment process, reported by 60% of respondents, is waiting for a response. Searching for a job, at 18%, is a distant second place. Another 10% point to attending an interview as the worst aspect of the recruitment process, followed by filling an application (7%), and preparing a CV (4%).

When asked what single attribute best determines their job suitability, respondents most often cite work experience (42%). Attitude and personality, which 37% cite, follow. Interview performance, level of education, reference checks, and psychological test results all rate low on their list of job suitability factors. More than four-fifths (81%) say employers have treated them fairly during the interview process.