Companies are shunning the Internet because of the high levels of applications it generates, according to research from IT consultancy Parity.

The survey of HR managers reveals that only 5 per cent used the Internet to recruit in 2003 compared with over 30 per cent in 2001.

However, Parity warns that companies abandoning the Internet run the risk of losing out on valuable talent and should turn to online assessment and CV-sifting technology instead.

Kevin Kerrigan, MD of SHL UK, the recruitment and psychometrics firm, said: “Too many companies just see Internet recruitment as job boards and not as a part of selection.

"Using personality and ability tests, easily delivered via the Internet early in the application process, can whittle down the number of applicants to sensible levels, even before the HR manager looks at a CV.

"Not only does this save time and money, but it means you’re more likely to net the better candidates before your competitor does.“