Wacks Caller searches for legal 'talent' in cyberspace

Manchester firm Wacks Caller is cutting down on the time and money it spends on recruiting staff through a software package that will enable it to create an on-line 'talent pool'.Qikk Prospector, made by IT provider Qikker Solutions, is a Web-based service that allows firms to advertise vacancies and process applications over the Internet.Candidates register their details on-line to create a 'talent pool' database featuring their roles, skills and abilities.

The Web application automatically takes on the characteristics of Wacks Caller's own Web site and, as Qikker Solutions acts as a host, the firm pays a monthly charge with no capital outlay.Partner Simon Wallwork said the firm wanted to get away from old-fashioned 'passive' careers Web pages.

'Our human resources staff and managers are able to use the back-end application to manage the recruitment process from posting vacancies through to the selection and appointment of a candidate,' he explained.

Martin Caller, Wacks Caller's senior partner, said the firm had seen a 30% increase in staff over the past two years, and had spent more than 100,000 on recruitment in 2001.

However, he said the firm would continue to use recruitment agencies while the efficacy of the service is being tested.

Paula Rohan