Google takes on LinkedIn with its own job-search platform Hire

There’s yet another platform being launched for job searches. And this time it’s being launched by the world’s largest technology giant Google. The platform will be called Google Hire and will be similar to LinkedIn.

As per reports, Hire is expected to be a recruitment tool that allows employers manage job applications. While they can place ads for job listings, those looking for jobs will then be able to apply for it. This will be available with other G-Suite offerings.

The company has already launched a sign-in page for the new tool. Now while the page suggests that employers and job seekers can sign up for the service, the sign-up function is still unavailable.

This comes after Google acquired Bebop, a productivity and enterprise tools startup in 2015. Reports suggest that Google Hire is under the purview of Bebop and its founder Diane Greene, who now runs Google's enterprise and cloud division.

However, with Google knowing nearly everyone’s entire search history, several concerns were raised over the fact that recruiters will be able to see the applicant’s entire search history.  

However, Google has dispelled these concerns. A Google spokesperson told Gizmodo that only information that a candidate voluntarily provides will be passed on to a prospective employer as part of their online application. “Private information will not be shared. Google does not share private information such as search or viewing history. Only the information that applicants input into Google Hire will be shared—for example, first name, last name, email address, resume and cover letter,” the spokesperson added.

However, Google is quite a late entrant into this space. Globally, and even in India, job recruiting platforms is a very crowded space. With LinkedIn being the biggest player, there are others Greenhouse, Jobvite globally. In India, this space is dominated by Naukri, Monster, Indeed and Glassdoor.