What really happens behind the hiring process? In this episode of Spilling The Career Tea, Bill & Jerry sit down with executive coach and former talent acquisition leader Barbara Kurz to unpack the realities of recruiting, interviewing, personal branding, and career growth.

From recruiter ghosting and AI-driven hiring systems to interview prep, networking, leadership reputation, and the importance of empathy in the workplace, this conversation gives early career professionals a candid look at what recruiters and hiring managers are really thinking.

You’ll hear practical advice on:

• Why recruiters ghost candidates and why it matters

• How to stand out in applicant tracking systems (ATS)

• Resume and cover letter strategies that actually work

• The importance of networking, referrals, and recruiter relationships

• What hiring managers notice in interviews

• Common interview mistakes candidates make

• How personal brand, trust, and reputation shape long-term career success

• Why emotional intelligence matters as much as technical skills

• The leadership traits that help people rise and the behaviors that derail careers

Whether you’re searching for your first internship, preparing for interviews, or thinking about long-term career growth, this episode delivers actionable insights from both the recruiter and executive coaching perspectives.