We’re a bit over halfway through 2025, and if I had to sum up the year so far in one word, it would be: chaotic.
That’s exactly what I found myself saying in a recent conversation with Jon Heise, founder of Covert Recruiting and one of my trusted recruiting partners over the years. We met back in 2020 on LinkedIn—proof that sometimes those random connections actually do turn into real, lasting partnerships.
At the time, I was transitioning—like so many of us were during that strange post-COVID window—looking for meaningful work, first as a full-time employee and eventually as a consultant. Jon didn’t know me. He didn’t owe me anything. But he saw potential in my story, in my work, and in what I could offer his clients. Whether it was a writing contract or a strategic comms role, he consistently showed up with honesty, insight, and kindness.
He’s the type of partner you keep close—not just for the opportunities, but for the perspective. So when we reconnected on LinkedIn earlier this month, I requested a call to pick his brain about what is going in on our workforce today.
Whether you’re a full-time consultant like me, a business trying to find the right talent, or a gig worker figuring your next move, here are a few reflections from that conversation to help you navigate what might come next:
1. Candidates Want Stability. Clients Want Precision.
The fallout from the Great Resignation, layoffs, and economic chaos has created a candidate pool that’s craving something solid. As Jon put it, “People want to hold on to something good and see it through.” We’re all a little tired of the constant transitions—and I get it. I’ve had to pivot more than once in the last few years myself.
On the other side of the table, clients are more selective than ever. With roles often pulling in hundreds or even thousands of applicants, companies can afford to be choosy. They're looking for people who solve very specific problems—and fast. That means both candidates and hiring teams need to get clear: Who are you? What do you need? Why now?
2. Interviews Are Discovery Calls—Not Auditions
I never really minded having to do interviews. It was a skill I had honed throughout my 20s. I could say the right thing, at the right time. And to be fair, those skills served me well. But even as someone who’s been comfortable in that traditional interview format, I’m as happy as anyone to see that the game has changed.
Jon and I talked about how interviews today feel less like high-stakes auditions and more like discovery calls. Yes, clients still want to hear about your experience, your education, and how you’ve navigated challenges—but that’s just one part of it. They’re also trying to get a real sense of you.
Can they see you thriving on their team? Do your values align with their mission? Are you adaptable, collaborative, and clear in how you think and communicate?
Today’s interviews are more about chemistry, curiosity, and clarity than they are about performing. Clients want to see how you approach problems, not just how you describe past successes. They’re looking for someone who fits—not just on paper, but in the room (or the Zoom).
So if you’re preparing for an interview, don’t just rehearse answers. Practice being present. Be honest about your strengths. Be thoughtful about your questions. And show up as the person who will not only do the work, but do it with them.
* Can you solve today’s problems?
* Will you take initiative without needing micromanagement?
* Are you someone they’ll actually enjoy working with?
I’ve approached every consulting opportunity I’ve taken as a collaborative strategy session. The more I share how I think, not just what I’ve done, the better those conversations go. The priority is making that connection.
3. Be a Persistent, Present Problem Solver
Jon’s biggest advice? “You have to be your own multi-channel marketer.”
And he’s right. These days, sending your resume isn’t enough. You need to:
* Know your value and articulate it clearly
* Build a target list of companies or people you want to work with
* Follow up, show up, and stay visible—especially online
As someone who built my consulting business from the ground up over the last 10 years, I can tell you: that trust is everything. You don’t need to be loud, but you do need to be present, honest, and accountable.
4. The Power of Partnerships Over Time
When I began my consulting journey back in 2020, I started with what I do best: networking. I leaned on relationships, reached out to past colleagues, and said yes to the work that came my way. Over time, something beautiful happened—I carried several of those partners with me from one contract to the next. Together, we supported clients, built trust, and created value. Slowly, steadily, I built my own roster.
People like Jon weren’t just connections—they became collaborators. They referred me, trusted me, and allowed me to grow alongside them. That long-game approach to relationships is something I now bring to every client engagement of my own.
5. Specialization > Generalization—Most of the Time
During the pandemic, generalists like me thrived because businesses just needed help. One day I was leading strategy; the next I was writing donor emails or sketching out a landing page layout. I still love the variety—but even I’ve found that the more I lean into my strengths (storytelling, strategy, emotionally-driven messaging), the more aligned and fulfilling my projects become.
Clients are now looking for specialists. As Jon said, they want people who’ve “been in the industry, have a track record, and know how to solve that specific problem.” The more clearly you can articulate what you do best, the easier it is for people like Jon—and folks like me—to advocate for you.
6. Honesty, Always
Jon’s not the guy who’ll hype you up for a role you’re not right for. And thank goodness for that.
When I was on the job hunt, he always kept it honest—whether that meant telling me I wasn’t the right fit, or prepping me with clarity and encouragement when I was. He treats clients the same way.
That honesty has shaped how I show up for my own clients. When I pitch myself, when I lead trainings, or when I help teams navigate messy messaging challenges, I take that same approach: truth first. It builds better partnerships every time.
Final Thoughts: Prepare Like You Might Pivot
Jon called it: “This is the hardest market I’ve seen in 15 years.” So if you’re feeling overwhelmed or uncertain—you’re not alone. We’ve all had moments this year where the ground felt a little shaky.
But you can build something stable in the chaos. Whether that’s your personal brand, your client base, your creative work, or your internal compass—just keep going. Keep listening. Keep reaching out.
If you’re a gig worker or consultant:
* Know your niche
* Stay ready
* Keep your network alive
If you’re a client or hiring manager:
* Get specific
* Offer real value
* Remember you’re hiring humans, not checklists
At the end of the day, the work still matters. The right people are still out there. And the best partnerships are built not just on skills, but on trust, timing, and the courage to show up as your full self.
Looking to build your brand, tell your story, or hire someone who gets it? Subscribe to my Substack, or connect with me at eringregorycreative.com. If you’re hiring and want a trusted guide on your side—Jon’s your guy. Tell him I sent you.
Erin Gregory Creative is the studio of Erin Gregory, a writer, marketing strategist, and full-time communications and branding consultant for mission-driven organizations.
She’s also the host of Notes from the Messy Middle, a podcast on Substack exploring creativity, communication, and intentional living. Her work connects personal growth with strategic storytelling, helping people and brands speak with more clarity and purpose.
Read more at www.eringregorycreative.com or connect on LinkedIn.
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