Matt Kemblowski is the founder of MJK Connections LLC, where he helps small and midsize companies find the right people through thoughtful, relationship-driven recruiting. With more than 20 years of experience, Matt believes the best hires come from truly understanding what makes people happy and motivated at work. His approach combines strategy, process, and genuine connection to create meaningful results for both candidates and employers.

In this episode, Brad and Matt discuss:

• The personal story behind Matt’s 20-year recruiting career and founding MJK Connections LLC
• Why building authentic relationships matters more than resumes in recruiting
• How small and mid-sized businesses can find the right talent despite market challenges
• The evolving mindset of today’s candidates and how job hopping has changed post-pandemic
• Why genuine communication, especially during rejection, creates lasting trust

Key Takeaways: 

• Recruiting is about problem-solving, not just filling jobs, and understanding the “why” behind each hire is key.
• Candidates today prioritize happiness, flexibility, and meaningful work over salary alone.
• Consistent communication and empathy can transform the candidate experience and strengthen employer brands.
• “Job hopping” often reflects growth, not instability. Context and motivation matter more than tenure.
• True success in recruiting comes from staying authentic, following through, and valuing people as individuals, not transactions.

“We can’t be all things to all people. We can't solve every business's problem, but understanding who we want to serve, how we want to serve them, and then go all in on that.” - Matt Kemblowski

Connect with Matt Kemblowski: 

Website: https://www.mjkconnections.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-kemblowski/ 

Connect with Brad Foley:

Website: https://www.hrvaluepartners.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradfoley/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hrvaluepartners/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hrvaluepartners/ 

Email: [email protected] 

Show notes by Podcastologist: Francine Poblete

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.