RECRUITMENT GLOSSARY

HR & recruitment
jargon defined

We've pulled together a glossary of terms and definitions used commonly in the recruitment industry.

AI Recruiting
Leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) to automate tasks and enhance various aspects of the recruitment process, including candidate sourcing, screening, scheduling, and data analysis. This technology streamlines workflows, improves efficiency, and allows recruiters to focus on more strategic aspects of hiring.
ATS Integration
The process of connecting an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) with other HR software, such as a Human Resources Information System (HRIS), Candidate Relationship Management (CRM) system, or video interviewing platform. ATS integration allows for the seamless transfer of candidate data between systems, improving efficiency and reducing manual data entry in the recruitment process.
Actionable Insights
Data-driven reports and visualisations generated by AI to inform recruitment decisions. These insights can include fit scoring (how well a candidate aligns with the role requirements), engagement scores (candidate interest in the position), pipeline trends (movement of candidates through the hiring process), and candidate discovery (identification of suitable candidates who may not have actively applied). Actionable insights empower recruiters to make data-driven decisions and optimize their recruitment strategies.
Active Candidate
Individuals actively searching for new jobs. They might be unemployed, looking for a better opportunity, or browsing online platforms, attending job fairs, or contacting companies directly.
Agency Recruiter
An agency recruiter works for a staffing agency, finding candidates for multiple client companies across various industries or job types. They typically specialise in specific industries or job types.
Agent of Record (AOR)
A company that acts as an intermediary between an employer and an insurance carrier, managing the enrolment, administration, and compliance aspects of employee benefits plans. AORs are responsible for ensuring that the employer's benefits plans comply with legal requirements and are properly administered.
Applicant Tracking System (ATS)
Software used by recruiters to streamline hiring. It helps manage tasks like advertising jobs, sorting resumes based on keywords, and scheduling interviews.
Applicants per Opening
The number of applications received for a particular job vacancy. This metric helps gauge the level of interest in the position and the effectiveness of your recruitment channels.
Application Form
The document a candidate fills out to express their interest in a position.
Assessment Centre
A series of activities, like simulations, group exercises, and tests, used to assess a candidate's skills, knowledge, and suitability for a role, often used for senior positions.
Automated Screening
The use of technology to streamline the initial evaluation of job applicants. This can involve tools such as resume parsing, keyword matching, and skills assessments. Automated screening helps to reduce time spent on reviewing unqualified applicants and allows recruiters to focus on more promising candidates.
Award Wage
An award wage is the minimum hourly or salaried rate of pay that an employer is legally required to pay their employees, as set out in a modern award or enterprise agreement. These awards are determined by the Fair Work Commission (FWC) in Australia and cover a wide range of industries and occupations.
Base Salary
The fixed amount of regular pay an employee receives before bonuses or commissions.
Behavioural Interview
Focuses on past experiences and how a candidate handled specific situations. It helps predict future behaviour and how they might approach challenges in your role.
Boolean Search
A search strategy using keywords and operators (AND, OR, NOT) to find relevant candidates.
Candidate Experience (CandEx)
The overall experience a candidate has throughout the recruitment process.
Candidate Matching
The process of using AI algorithms to match candidates with relevant job openings. These algorithms consider a candidate's skills, experience, education, and other qualifications to identify the best possible fits for open positions. Candidate matching helps to improve the quality of applicants and expedite the hiring process.
Candidate Net Promoter Score (cNPS)
A metric that measures a candidate's likelihood to recommend your company's recruitment process to others. It helps identify areas for improvement in the candidate experience.
Candidate Pipeline
A group of qualified candidates you've identified through sourcing efforts, currently at different stages of the recruitment process - from applying to interviewing.
Candidate Satisfaction
Measures a candidate's experience with the recruitment process.
Candidate Selection
The process of evaluating and choosing the most suitable candidate for a job opening based on their qualifications, skills, experience, and fit with the company culture. Candidate selection involves various methods such as resume screening, interviews, assessments, and reference checks to determine the best match for the position.
Company Values
Core principles that guide the company's behaviour and decision-making.
Compensation Package
The total value of an employee's remuneration, including salary, bonuses, commission (if applicable), and benefits. A competitive compensation package is essential for attracting and retaining top talent
Competency Framework
A competency framework is a defined set of skills, knowledge, and behaviours that are considered essential for success in a specific role within an organisation. It outlines the attributes that a high-performing employee in that role would demonstrate.
Competency-Based Interview
Tailored to specific skills and qualities needed for the job. The interviewer asks questions to assess if the candidate has the necessary competencies (knowledge, skills, and behaviours) for success.
Contingency Recruiter
A contingency recruiter gets paid only if they successfully place a permanent candidate in a client's role. This incentivises them to find a quick match, often focusing on high-volume recruitment.
Conversational HR Chatbots
AI-powered chatbots designed to assist candidates with various tasks during the recruitment process. These chatbots can answer questions about the company or role, help with job searching and screening, and even schedule interviews. Chatbots provide a convenient and accessible way for candidates to interact with potential employers.
Cost per Hire
The total cost incurred to fill an open position, including advertising, recruitment fees, background checks, and onboarding expenses.
Counteroffer
An offer from a candidate's current employer to keep them from leaving.
Cover Letter
A personalised document that accompanies a resume, highlighting a candidate's qualifications and interest in the specific role.