recruitment
/rɪˈkruːtmənt/the process of finding and hiring new employees
The HR department is responsible for the recruitment of new staff.
The HR department manages the hiring of new employees.
Recruitment agencies specialize in finding talent for companies.
Companies hire agencies to find qualified candidates.
Often used in corporate, military, or educational contexts. Can refer to both the act of hiring and the strategies used to attract candidates.
Collocations
Antonyms
💡Pro Tip
Avoid confusion with 'recruit'
'Recruitment' is the noun form referring to the process, while 'recruit' can be a noun (a new member) or verb (to hire). Example: 'The company's recruitment drive aims to recruit 50 new engineers.'
⚡Gold Rule
Use 'recruitment' for the process, not the people
Correct: 'The recruitment process was lengthy.' Incorrect: 'She is a recruitment.' Use 'recruit' or 'new hire' instead.
📖Word Origin
From Middle English 'recrutement' (16th century), from Old French 'recrutement', from 'recruter' (to recruit), from Italian 'reclutare', from Latin 'recruere' (to repair, restore), from 're-' (again) + 'crescere' (to grow). Originally referred to restoring health or strength, later applied to replenishing military forces, and eventually to hiring personnel.
📝Usage Notes
Recruitment is a formal process, typically involving job postings, interviews, and selection. It is distinct from 'onboarding,' which refers to the integration of new hires into the organization. In some contexts (e.g., military), recruitment may imply voluntary enlistment rather than formal hiring.