A York-based technology business which aims to cut costs and revolutionise the recruitment process by using sophisticated software to simulate real life interviews has received backing from one of the region’s leading entrepreneurs.
Shortlister.com is the brain child of Harrogate born David Dewey who, frustrated by his own experiences as an interview candidate, decided to develop software to improve the process for both employers and candidates.
David spent two years developing the concept into a functional online video interview platform and has now received a significant six figure investment from local entrepreneur Tim Whitworth. The former co-founder and CEO of clothing chain Republic, Tim built the brand into a multi-channel fashion business with 125 stores as well as establishing a successful ecommerce platform before exiting the business in 2011.
David is now launching the Shortlister.com beta and is inviting businesses in the region to come forward and benefit from free use of the software during this beta phase by registering their interest online at www.shortlister.com. The online video interview service will be rolled out fully by the end of January.
Using the latest digital advances to create a realistic online interview process, this online software offers recruiters a real alternative to traditional time-consuming and, therefore, costly recruitment techniques. The platform enables employers to quickly and efficiently create a branded interview by transferring their scripted questions from text to speech.
David said:
We have developed the next generation of video interview software which simulates a real interview, making it engaging for candidates whilst also saving recruiters significant time and, therefore, costs in the initial selection stages.
As well as providing an outstanding service and cost savings for recruiters, ensuring that the interview is a positive experience for the candidate is also central to our business model. For example, with Shortlister.com every single candidate is promptly notified as to whether or not they have been successful.
We are already working with a number of clients on the beta version of the platform prior to its full launch in January and we are keen for more businesses to be involved and help us make any last minute enhancements before we launch commercially in the New Year.
Tim Whitworth said:
Having first hand knowledge of the challenges and costs of being responsible for recruitment in a large business with a 2,500-plus workforce, I could immediately see the huge benefits offered by a professional online interviewing service which provides candidates and recruiters with a life-like interview experience.
If candidates have a poor interview experience, this can cause reputational damage for the employer’s brand. With HR teams struggling to keep up with increasing workloads, Shortlister.com saves time by streamlining the screening process whilst also ensuring that each interview is as good as the last. The ability to easily share interviews and involve key decision makers will result in better hires.
Photograph shows (L to R): Entrepreneur Tim Whitworth and David Dewey of Shortlister.com
