A homegrown recruitment app with built-in machine learning could cut the hiring process from weeks to days for shops and cafes.

The Hunt app launched on Tuesday uses matchmaking technology powered by machine learning to connect employers with jobseekers.

Machine learning is a type of artificial intelligence that allows computers to learn and adapt to patterns in data.

The app uses a swipe, discover and match process to speed up recruitment, including the screening of videos uploaded by jobseekers.

Although there are many recruitment services for white-collar workers, no platform existed for small businesses and blue-collar workers, according to Hunt founder Natalie Cherry.

“Following COVID-19, which saw thousands of shift workers leave Australia, it has been a challenge for business owners across Australia to hire,” she said.

Staff turnover is costly for businesses and it can take 10 to 16 weeks on average to recruit a new employee to fill a vacancy, government data shows.

As a business owner, Ms Cherry said she was spending valuable time screening candidates’ emails or sifting through paper resumes, often with limited success.

“It is really hard to determine if a candidate could be the right fit based on a paper CV,” she said.

The Hunt app replaces manual screening and can be used for any industry.

Job seekers create a visual profile on the app to share their background, experience, location and job preferences and can upload attachments such as videos.

Businesses post jobs with details about the role, company and salary and the app takes over.

The Hunt app will be available on the App Store and Google Play.

Marion Rae
(Australian Associated Press)