In preparation for Burning Questions, we have asked our speakers about recent developments in innovation that they have found particularly important in their worlds. Here are the thoughts of Albert Ellis, CEO of Harvey Nash, the largest executive search firm in the UK:
"Recruitment has always been about relationships. An effective recruiter will have a strong network of trusted candidates and will enjoy long term relationships with his or her regular clients. In recent years we have seen some fascinating technology led innovation in the recruitment industry, from the introduction of internet based job boards - where hundreds of thousands of jobs can be listed in one place - to the technological revolution in the processing of candidate information.
The most exciting technology led innovation around at the moment, which is still only in its infancy, is that of social networking. The growth of websites like facebook, myspace and Bebo is now well reported in the media. Millions of people are signing up to these sites to connect with others who share interests but not geographic borders.
Within the social network itself there is a significant commercial opportunity, however, as an industry that depends on personal relationships and networks, recruiters potentially have a lot to gain from tapping into these online groups. LinkedIn is an early innovator in this field where they have built a network of 7m senior businesspeople who can connect with suppliers, recruiters and each other. In only a few years’ online social networks have grown into communities with millions of members; as the technology behind them advances we can expect their importance to grow across a range of industries."
What innovations are having the greatest impact for you?
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