The Ultimate Talent Professional's Glossary - What Do All Those Acronyms Mean?

In the fast-paced world of Talent and Recruiting, it seems there’s an acronym or specialised term for every step, tool, and strategy. For seasoned professionals and newcomers alike, keeping track of this language is essential to navigating the industry effectively. To help you stay on top of it all, here’s a quick-reference glossary of key terms and acronyms.

A - E

AI (Artificial Intelligence)

Refers to technology that enables systems to perform tasks that usually require human intelligence, such as decision-making, pattern recognition, and natural language processing. AI is increasingly used in HR tech for screening resumes, conversational chatbots, predictive analytics and personalising candidate experiences.

API Connectors

APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) allow different software systems to communicate with each other. API connectors in HR tech integrate various systems (like ATS/CRM with core HR system) to provide seamless data flow and improved functionality.

ATS (Applicant Tracking System)

An ATS is software that helps companies manage the recruitment process, from receiving applications to screening candidates. It streamlines hiring, automates tracking, and improves organisation by storing candidate data in one system.

Candidate

A person actively involved in a recruitment process. Candidates may be new applicants, those sourced by recruiters, or internal employees vying for a new position within the company.

Conversational AI

Conversational AI is the technology that powers chatbots and virtual assistants which enables machines to engage in natural, human-like conversations to answer questions, provide customer support, or assisting with tasks. 

CRM (Candidate Relationship Management)

CRM in recruiting focuses on managing and nurturing relationships with prospects. It helps recruiters track candidate interactions and engagement, manage talent pipelines, and engage prospective talent more effectively.

Drip Campaign

An automated email sequence designed to nurture candidates or prospects over time. Drip campaigns offer targeted, timely information to keep talent engaged and informed, moving them closer to applying or accepting an offer.

Employer Brand

The perception of a company as an employer, shaped by its culture, values, and reputation. A strong employer brand helps attract top talent and positively impacts employee retention.

ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning)

ERP software integrates various business functions, such as finance, HR, and supply chain management, into a single system. Many companies use ERPs to streamline their operations and improve data consistency across departments.

EVP (Employee Value Proposition)

An EVP is the unique set of benefits an employer offers its employees. It includes compensation, culture, development opportunities, and other elements that make a company attractive to potential and current employees.

F - J

HCM Suites (Human Capital Management Suites)

HCM suites are comprehensive software solutions that manage multiple HR functions—recruitment, payroll, performance, and more—under one umbrella, aiming to streamline processes and improve overall people management.

HRMS (Human Resources Management System)

HRMS software provides a broad range of HR functions, including payroll, benefits administration, and time management. It supports core HR processes and is often a key component in a company's technology stack. HRMS is an interchangeable term with HCM Suites. 

L - P

LMS (Learning Management System)

LMS platforms support learning and development by enabling organisations to deliver, track, and report on employee training programs. They’re integral to ongoing skill development and compliance training.

Onboarding

The process of integrating new hires into an organisation, typically involving tasks like completing paperwork, training, and team introductions. Effective onboarding improves new hire retention and accelerates productivity.

One-Time Message

A single communication sent to a candidate or prospect, often for updates, reminders, or specific campaign messages. Unlike drip campaigns, one-time messages are not automated sequences.

People Analytics

This involves analysing HR data to improve decision-making related to recruitment, performance, and engagement. Platforms like seeHR are valuable for leveraging people analytics to gain actionable insights.

Programmatic Advertising

The use of AI and algorithms to automate the buying of online advertising space, targeting specific candidate profiles with relevant job ads. Programmatic advertising maximises reach and efficiency in recruitment marketing.

Prospect

An individual identified as a potential candidate but who hasn’t yet applied or been actively engaged in the recruiting process. Prospects are often sourced through talent pipelines and CRM efforts.

R - V

Recruitment Marketing

Using marketing strategies to promote job openings and the employer brand. Recruitment marketing aims to attract and engage talent by showcasing company culture and job benefits.

RFP (Request for Proposal)

An RFP is a document companies issue to solicit proposals from vendors for goods or services. In HR, RFPs are used to evaluate software vendors for ATS, HRMS, or other solutions.

SaaS (Software as a Service)

A software licensing model where users access software via the cloud, typically through a subscription. SaaS has become the standard model for HR tech platforms like ATS and CRM.

Talent Community

A group of individuals interested in an organisation’s job opportunities or career resources. Talent communities are nurtured through email campaigns, events, and other engagement efforts to keep them interested in potential opportunities.

Talent Pool

A group of qualified talent segmented by role type / business area. Talent pools can be searched for suitable candidates when new roles arise - these candidates should be kept engaged with regular, relevant communications

VMS (Vendor Management System)

A system used to manage a company's relationships with external vendors and contractors. It streamlines vendor-related processes, including contract management, compliance, and performance tracking.

This glossary provides a quick reference to help talent professionals decode the language of recruitment. With a solid grasp of these terms, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the industry and make informed technology decisions. Of course, with many years of experience, we know all of these terms back-to-front, so you can safely leave your next Talent Tech implementation to us, and not have to memorise this list!

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We offer a full suite of services around and key service lines: Tech Stack Design, Tech Implementation and post-live system Maintenance.

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