In 2020 physical separation demonstrated the opportunity of technology to be a connector. At Handshake, we believe the switch to virtual can provide a more human-centric and equitable playing field for the early talent sector.
The Handshake platform may be powered by technology, but we know that digital transactions can never replace real human relationships. In contrast to transactional databases, Handshake aims to facilitate human connections between employers, institutions and students, at scale.
In this report, we articulate the systemic challenges and inefficiencies that legacy technologies create in the early talent recruitment ecosystem, and propose solutions to start improving access for all. We discuss:
- Why most professional networking sites are making students and young graduates feel even more disconnected from the established professional world.
- Unequal access to connections, social mobility and the impact of digital poverty in the early talent sector.
- The challenges of providing career education, advice and guidance at scale.
- Transforming employer relations teams from gate-keepers to curators and connectors.
- Using virtual careers fairs and ambassadors to create real, measurable, human connection at scale.
Recently we hosted a webinar and shared all the highlights and key takeaways from the Executive Report. Didn't make it? No problem! Watch the recording here.
Finally we will soon be releasing our next research paper entitled "Netpotism" which investigates the impact that digital transformation is having on access to opportunities for graduates. Furthermore illustrating the post-Covid jobs landscape, the research will examine the danger of exchanging one set of closed networks for another as the recruitment process moves completely online.