August 19, 2022
This blog was originally published in July 2019 and has been updated for stats and relevancy.
The benefits of using an RPO firm are dependent on the strategic objectives of each individual organization. It could be that they want a more scalable solution for the talent acquisition function in a business where hiring volumes have peaks and troughs or they want a partner that is innovative in their approach to recruitment technology, data, and analytics.
Ultimately, the true value comes in the consultative nature of RPO partnerships to support or build best-in-class, strategic and proactive recruitment functions for the long term. However, despite the obvious advantages, there are misconceptions about Putting Recruitment Back in RPO™. So, we asked some of the WilsonHCG team what myths need busting and here's what they said...
Myth #1: Robots will replace recruiters
When a new form of technology is launched in the recruitment industry, there are claims it will replace jobs. For example, when applicant tracking systems first appeared on the scene, people said they’ll put an end to administration tasks. In reality, it just helped bring administration into a single source. And now it’s AI and automation technology that’s making people nervous.
Technology has helped to make the role of a recruiter more efficient but it will not replace the human element recruiters bring to the process. Technology is an enabler. It can make things better but there needs to be a seamless marriage between humans and tech in order to get the best results.
Craig Sweeney, senior vice president, global strategic talent solutions, WilsonHCG
Myth #2: RPO staffing companies take jobs away from in-house teams
RPO companies are strategic partners that help elevate corporate recruitment teams. They have knowledge, experience, and scalability with a global reach that complements hiring outcomes. They work with in-house teams to get the best outcome possible. Rather than taking jobs away from the in-house team, they shift responsibilities and free up time. This allows the in-house team to focus on executing their business strategies and objectives.
In addition, RPO partners help internal teams secure executive buy-in because they can share data and real-life success stories that internal teams may not have. The point of a partnership is to work together to get the best possible outcome.
Libby Herrmann, vice president of client solutions, WilsonHCG
Myth #3: Staffing agencies have a wider reach in markets than RPO firms
Another common myth about RPO firms is that their reach isn’t as wide as that of staffing agencies. This is not the case! The proliferation of data and the exponential growth of online profiles make almost everyone searchable and contactable. It’s no longer about finding people with the right skills; it’s about finding people who fit in with the organization's culture. This is something corporate recruitment and RPO teams incorporate into their operational models.
Myth #4: RPO partnerships dilute employer brand
There are many benefits of recruitment process outsourcing and one of the most popular is the ability RPO partners have when it comes to enhancing employer brand. RPO firms design strategic solutions that help create well-rounded employment brands, which makes it easier to to attract new candidates, retain current employees, improve the candidate experience and increase hiring manager satisfaction.
RPO providers consult clients on how to enhance the perception of their employer brand while monitoring their top competitors for benchmarking purposes. They then use the results to make improvements in communications and messaging. RPOs can also leverage relationships with vendors, such as Glassdoor and Indeed, to further support the client’s local brand development.
Gillisa Pope, senior global director of talent attraction and sourcing, WilsonHCG
Is RPO right for you?
A strategic recruitment process outsourcing partnership ensures the right people and processes are in place for your business.
