AI-native tools

AI-native tools are built around AI from the start, rather than having it added to older software. Done well, they take hours of admin off every consultant each week. Done badly, they create a new mess to tidy up. Here's how to tell the difference.

What to look for

• A clear job to do. The best tools take on a specific task, such as writing up calls, screening applications or updating your CRM, and do it reliably. Be wary of anything that promises to do everything.
• It works with your ATS. If the AI's work doesn't land in your ATS or CRM, someone ends up copying and pasting. Check the Works with pages.
• People stay in charge. You should be able to see, edit and approve what the AI does, especially anything a candidate or client will see.
• Proof in your kind of recruitment. Ask for examples from agencies like yours: the same sectors, the same mix of permanent and contract, a similar size of team.

Questions to ask before you sign

• Where is our data stored, and is any of it used to train AI models?
• What happens when the AI gets something wrong, and how would we know?
• How long does it take to set up, and who does the work?
• What does it cost as we add users, and is there a minimum term?
• Can a few consultants trial it before we commit the whole team?

Watch out for

• Demos built on perfect data. Ask to see it working on yours.
• Per-user pricing that climbs quickly as the team grows.
• Tools that make decisions about candidates with no person checking. Under UK data protection law, candidates have rights when decisions about them are made automatically, so keep a person in the loop.