jobco-op automotive says that both employers and candidates are becoming more comfortable with the use of such technology and are starting to recognise the advantages that it brings.

Director Derek Webb said: “Devices like smartphones and tablets, as well as software and apps like Skype and FaceTime, have clearly proliferated in the last couple of years and offer new tools that are highly suitable for recruitment in the motor industry.

“While there is some resistance to video interviewing, for example, because some potential employers want to meet all the potential candidates, there is an increasing number that recognise it is a very effective way to conduct a first round of interviews. A shortlist can then be drawn up for subsequent, face-to-face interviews.”

Webb said that a further aspect of the appeal of the technology was that it allowed candidates to minimise the possibility that their existing employer might find out they were looking for a new job.

He explained: “Candidates are often nervous about visiting the premises of a potential employer in case they are seen by someone they know. It is an understandable concern. However, video interviewing allows them to circumvent this. Many candidates are interviewed from their homes and this creates a situation in which they are more relaxed and able to project themselves better.”

Webb added that smart phones could also be used in creative ways in order to aid the motor industry recruitment process.

He said: “Smart phones enable recruiters to keep in touch with candidates in a discreet but effective manner. We are currently working on our own app that will contain several features that we believe will be highly innovative and should be ready in Q2.

“New ideas include the ability for us to send a list of questions to the candidate that they can answer on video in their own time and then return to us. There are many new and different possibilities.”