GLOSSARY
GDPR in Recruiting
GDPR applied to recruiting imposes strict rules on collection, processing, retention and deletion of candidate data. Max retention: 2 years after last contact.
IN DEPTH
GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation, 2018) applies to all personal data processing in recruiting in Europe. Main rules: 1) Clear legal basis (consent or legitimate interest), 2) Transparent candidate information (privacy policy), 3) Max 2-year retention after last contact (unless explicit consent for pool), 4) Right of access, rectification, erasure, portability, 5) European hosting preferable (or standard clauses), 6) Processing register, 7) DPO mandatory above certain threshold. Sanctions up to 4% of worldwide revenue. In 2026, non-GDPR-compliant ATS platforms (US hosting without clauses) expose companies to risks. Cobalt is GDPR-native: AWS/Scaleway EU hosting, DPA included, automated export and erasure, complete audit trail.
Frequently asked questions
Maximum 2 years after last contact with the candidate, unless explicit consent for longer retention in a pool. Beyond that, CVs must be anonymized or deleted. The candidate can request erasure anytime (right to be forgotten).
Not strictly mandatory, but strongly recommended. US hosting requires standard contractual clauses (SCC) and impact analysis. Non-EU transfers are increasingly scrutinized by data protection authorities. Cobalt (AWS/Scaleway EU hosting) drastically simplifies compliance.
Related terms
- ATS (Applicant Tracking System)An ATS is a candidate management software that centralizes, sorts and advances candidates through a recruitment process, from application to hire.
- Recruitment CRMA recruitment CRM centralizes the relationship with candidates (talent pool, history, scoring) and clients (missions, pipeline, renewal), unlike an ATS which focuses on application tracking.
- Talent PoolThe talent pool is the qualified talent database a staffing firm or agency has already identified and maintains relationship with. 80% of placements at top firms come from it.
- Consultant TurnoverConsultant turnover measures the annual % of consultants leaving a staffing firm (voluntary + involuntary departures). France 2026 median: 18%. 15-50 consultant firms: 23%.
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