How VR Can Enhance the Recruitment Process

In recent times, technological innovation has touched all parts of our personal and working lives. We’ve all learned to adapt to change, especially during lockdown and remote working conditions. The recent technological growth for virtual reality has proven to be a game-changer for businesses. The demand for access to real-time information and services is sky-high. VR has modernized the entire working structure for sectors like HR. And in some businesses, onboarding has yielded to the new norms of virtual reality recruitment. VR technology can help your HR team to sufficiently sift through competent candidates, more than ever before. From using AI facial recognition to read personalities, to virtually interactive interviews—the benefits for VR are endless

What is Virtual Reality?

Virtual reality has many definitions. But the computer-simulated experience is best presented by its innovations. Immersing all your senses in a virtual environment is the base point of VR. Inventions can range from headsets and Smartphone VR, all the way to self-driving cars and artificial intelligence. VR is utilized in industries like:

• Military
• Healthcare
• Fashion
• Entertainment
• Education
• Gaming
• Business

The concept has been around for longer than one might think. The earliest forms of VR stem from 19^th century stereoscopic photos and viewfinders. In more recent times, SEGA launched its VR glasses in 1993. Facebook introduced Oculus Quest to the public in the 2010s. If the lockdown could personify any form of positivity, it’s that the call for technological innovation has completely revolutionised our way of living and working.

VR Within the Recruitment Sector

VR technology provides candidates with a dry run for jobs that would otherwise be difficult to experience. Problems can range from candidates living remotely or in foreign places. It can also help ease potential competency issues from lack of training. In the Military they utilise VR training for working in dangerous environments, which reduces potential injury risks. Doctors can remotely conduct virtual operations. And fashion companies can recreate personalised online shopping experiences. A big lesson learnt from a global lockdown is that we have become more accepting for new technological methods. From simple means of communication and to business development. And the recruitment sector is no different. Using VR technology will not only set your recruitment process apart from others but can also streamline the entire hiring process. Here are a few beneficial reasons for using VR in the recruitment industry.

Expanding Your Recruitment Process

Virtual reality recruitment is a profitable tool for recruiters. Going through the interview process and finding the perfect person is taken to another level.

Recruiters can also simulate interviews for remote candidates. Allowing them to experience and fully immerse themselves into the business culture.

It might be hard to believe, but VR can prove to be cost effective. Recruiters can assess candidates without spending enormous costs on multiple meetings or follow-up interviews.

Combining Virtual Reality With AI

One of the biggest benefits of VR in recruitment is the ability to simulate real-life work experience. A fully immersive VR skill test can effectively highlight successful candidates. Based on their aptitude tests and capability assessments. Through one-way video interviews, recruiters can read facial descriptions and personalities, allowing them to get to know candidates in depth. This differs completely from analysing them through pre-recorded video interviews. VR allows recruiters to read candidates better ‘in person’ than through edited videos. Through gamification, recruiters can identify heightened interactive and commitment skills early in the hiring process.

Virtual Training

VR is a great method for providing training and probation periods for new employees. Potential workplace accidents or business disruptions are non-existent problems for employers. Augmented reality training can help candidates fully immerse themselves into learning work skills. This is especially useful for teaching complicated tasks to new or remote workers. For example, the British Army recently provided virtual experiences for driving tanks and skydiving. Which helps employees to better understand the structure of the business and their job descriptions.

Virtual Workplace Tours

Imagine the scene where you are virtually presenting a company building to potential clients. Or even showing a new candidate around the office of their new job. Virtual reality can be such an effective way to present the best version of your business remotely. It’s a giant leap from sharing presentations and media-packs! Whether you’re showing a virtual 3D construction of an office or a construction site, the interactive rapport that you build early can help establish a firm foundation for business succession. VR enables you to provide the best onboarding experience for candidates. Employees can value your business ethics and culture first-hand, rather than discover them over time.

How VR is a Game-Changer For Your Business?

Onboarding continues to adapt in 2021, as more and more companies tap into the realm of virtual reality. They recognise the rise in virtual social networks, and the benefits they hold for their employer brand. Utilising VR goes beyond the gaming industry, Google Cardboard, or The Matrix. One thing’s for sure, VR in recruitment will be a concept that you’ll definitely meet soon.