Is the return-to-office trend finally losing steam? In this week’s episode, Joel Lalgee tackles a growing corporate misstep as companies like Dell struggle with flawed return-to-office policies that penalize parents and strain employee well-being. You’ll also hear a rare, heartwarming layoff story—yes, you read that right! Joel highlights how empathy can turn even the toughest moments into opportunities for growth.

As Gen Z loses faith in traditional college paths, there’s a growing movement towards skilled trades. Joel dives into why more young people are choosing hands-on careers and how industries like construction are evolving to meet the demand. Plus, if you’re juggling multiple jobs or considering a side hustle, you’re not alone. Joel breaks down the rise in multi-job holders and what it means for the future of the workforce.

Tune in for raw takes on the future of work, the return of layoffs, and why flexibility isn’t just a perk—it’s a necessity. Whether you’re a recruiter, job seeker, or curious about the trends reshaping work, this episode offers insights that will keep you ahead of the curve.

In this episode:

00:04: Introduction to the episode

00:37: Overview of the week's episode

01:07: Meet the host, Joel Algee

01:35: New segment announcement and how to stay in touch

02:27: Sponsor message: Source Whale

03:58: Feel-good moment: Layoff with empathy

08:21: Thoughts on the return to office policies

13:42: Dell's childcare policy controversy

16:20: Final thoughts and call for feedback

16:36: Teens losing faith in college and rise in skilled trades

17:28: Rise in Vocational Programs

20:26: Introduction to Multiple Job Holders

22:31: Conclusion and Closing Remarks

About Joel Lalgee 

Joel Lalgee is an internationally known recruitment leader and coach who has helped thousands of recruiters build their brands online. In 2015, Joel started recruiting for a small start-up agency in Milwaukee. He quickly found his passion for recruitment. In 2019, he discovered content marketing, publishing his first posts on Linkedin. Since then, he has grown to over 400k followers, and his content has been seen over 1 billion times. In 2023, he started a business specializing in coaching recruiters, marketing consulting, and influencer partnerships.

Recruiting is No Joke Social Media

• LinkedIn
• Website
• Instagram
• TikTok  
• X (formerly Twitter

This episode is brought to you by Sourcewhale, the ultimate platform for streamlining your recruitment process and connecting with top talent efficiently. Discover how Sourcewhale can transform your hiring strategy and empower your team to thrive.

Are you a job seeker trying to find your way in today’s tricky job market? Let’s be real—networking can feel like the magic key to unlocking career opportunities, right? But with so many people competing for the same roles, what challenges are you bumping into? And how has remote work changed the game for us all?

In this episode of Recruiting is No Joke, host Joel Lalgee dives into the ever-changing landscape of recruitment and job searching. He highlights the vital role of networking and shares insights from the recent Breakfast USA event in Nashville. Joel also tackles the current job market hurdles, touching on a viral story about Summer Meyers’ unconventional LinkedIn strategy. He sheds light on economic narratives that often overlook the real struggles faced by job seekers and discusses the effects of return-to-office mandates.

The episode goes further to explore generational workplace dynamics, the redefinition of professionalism, and the value of mentorship. Joel encourages you to think outside the box when job hunting.

Ready to unlock your career potential? Tune in and discover strategies to help you stand out in this competitive landscape!

In this episode:

• (00:03) Introduction to the episode
• (00:37) Live event experience
• (01:12) Value of networking
• (04:26) Viral job search story
• (08:01) Job market dynamics
• (10:43) Return to office mandate
• (13:46) Employee sentiment on office return
• (17:21) Generational workplace issues
• (19:15) Generational perspectives on professionalism
• (21:37) Mentorship in the workplace
• (22:35) Defining professionalism
• (23:31) Engagement with the audience
• (24:19) Podcast wrap-up and future plans

About Joel Lalgee 

Joel Lalgee is an internationally known recruitment leader and coach who has helped thousands of recruiters build their brands online. In 2015, Joel started recruiting for a small start-up agency in Milwaukee. He quickly found his passion for recruitment. In 2019, he discovered content marketing, publishing his first posts on Linkedin. Since then, he has grown to over 400k followers, and his content has been seen over 1 billion times. In 2023, he started a business specializing in coaching recruiters, marketing consulting, and influencer partnerships.

Recruiting is No Joke Social Media

• LinkedIn
• Website
• Instagram
• TikTok  
• X (formerly Twitter

Resource Links

• Summer Meyers' LinkedIn Profile
• Yahoo Article on Job Market

This episode is brought to you by Sourcewhale, the ultimate platform for streamlining your recruitment process and connecting with top talent efficiently. Discover how Sourcewhale can transform your hiring strategy and empower your team to thrive.

Ready to dive deep into recruitment strategies and tech innovations that are shaping talent acquisition? In this special episode recorded live at RecFest USA, Joel Lalgee sits down with Amy Cropper from TriCentis, Asud Anderson from Equinix, and Brian Fink from McAfee. You’ll hear unfiltered insights on how these leaders are using AI to revolutionize sourcing, build global talent pipelines, and address the ever-changing landscape of recruiting.

Brian Fink kicks things off by sharing how McAfee’s AI-driven deepfake detection is enhancing tech hiring and protecting digital identities. He emphasizes the value of staying excited in the recruiting field and the impact of building tech teams aligned with a strong mission.

Amy Cropper then delves into strategies for transforming hiring at a scaling B2B company, sharing candid advice on navigating challenges when budgets are tight, and the power of transparency in attracting top talent.

Asad Anderson wraps up by exploring how Equinix manages global sourcing through personalized outreach, data-driven strategies, and the art of building trust with passive candidates. He shares practical tips for crafting authentic employer branding and ensuring your EVP resonates across diverse global markets.

Don’t miss these actionable takeaways and expert perspectives on what’s next in talent acquisition!

In this episode:

00:00:04: Introduction to the episode

00:00:37: Recap of last week's live interviews

00:01:20: Introduction of guests for this episode

00:02:04: Live from RecFest USA

00:02:22: Interview with Brian Fink from McAfee Security

00:02:57: Discussion on the September surge in recruitment

00:03:30: Brian Fink on McAfee's new deep fake detector

00:04:41: Insights from RecFest and the importance of D&I

00:05:47: Recruitment marketing and employer branding

00:06:34: Strategies for building community in recruitment marketing

00:08:43: How to start with content creation for talent leaders

00:09:36: Using mediums like Medium for engaging developers

00:10:41: Employer branding mistakes and using video

00:12:13: Crafting job descriptions and storytelling

00:13:47: Future of recruitment skills and technology

00:15:51: Introduction to AI and Personalization

00:16:13: Strategies for Authentic Communication

00:17:15: Techniques for Personal Video Messaging

00:17:33: Predictions for 2025 in Hiring

00:19:01: Where to Find Brian Fink Online

00:21:45: Introduction to Amy Cropper from TriCentis

00:23:41: Discussing AI at RecFest

00:24:39: Automating Basic Recruiting Tasks

00:25:03: Use Cases and AI in Recruiting

00:26:12: Transformations at TriCentis

00:26:55: Preparing for Future Growth

00:27:49: Key Strategies for New Leadership Roles

00:29:16: Engaging Candidates with a Growth Story

00:30:31: Honest Conversations About Startups

00:30:33: Discussion on layoffs and the unpredictability of the job market

00:31:01: Advice on personal development and networking for job seekers

00:31:23: Growing a company in uncertain times

00:31:30: Thoughts and predictions for the talent acquisition space in 2025

00:32:21: Strategies for optimizing existing resources

00:33:03: Benefits of networking and attending conferences

00:33:54: Changes observed in conferences compared to the previous year

00:34:08: Anticipation for upcoming conference sessions

00:34:40: Introduction to Asud Anderson and the company Equinix

00:36:11: Trends in global hiring and the commoditization of job searches

00:37:24: Research and data-driven approach to sourcing talent

00:38:36: Targeted sourcing and defining the role of sourcing

00:40:14: Managing and expanding global talent pools

00:41:13: Authentic messaging and employer brand

00:42:38: Importance of an individualized candidate experience

00:43:37: Maintaining authenticity and continuous candidate engagement

00:44:47: Personalizing AI Messages

00:45:41: Importance of Analytics in Recruitment

00:47:13: Unique AI Use Case - Covey

00:49:01: Big Bet for 2025 in Talent Acquisition

00:51:19: Connecting with Asud Anderson

00:52:12: Closing Remarks

********************************************************

This episode is brought to you by Built In. As the premier online community for national startups and tech companies, Built In connects you with exciting startup job opportunities, the latest tech news, and events happening in the national tech scene.

Resources

• Amy Cropper
• Asud Anderson
• Brian Fink
• TriCentis
• Equinix
• McAfee

Recruiting is No Joke Social Media

• LinkedIn
• Website
• Instagram
• TikTok  
• X (formerly Twitter

About Joel Lalgee

Joel Lalgee is an internationally known recruitment leader and coach who has helped thousands of recruiters build their brands online. In 2015, Joel started recruiting for a small start-up agency in Milwaukee. He quickly found his passion for recruitment. In 2019, he discovered content marketing, publishing his first posts on Linkedin. Since then, he has grown to over 400k followers, and his content has been seen over 1 billion times. In 2023, he started a business specializing in coaching recruiters, marketing consulting, and influencer partnerships.

Did you know that your employer brand could be the game-changer in attracting top talent today? In the latest episode of Recruiting is No Joke, host Joel Lalgee dives into the exciting world of employer branding with insights from industry pros like Maria Katris (Built In), Tannum Sullivan(Golden Hippo), and Celinda Appleby (Visa).

Broadcasting live from Breakfast USA in Nashville, Joel and his guests discuss how recruitment has transformed from a simple transaction to a savvy marketing strategy. Maria highlights how candidates are now doing their homework on companies just like they would when making a big purchase. This makes building brand awareness and keeping potential candidates engaged super important, even when you're not hiring.

Tannum shares why it’s crucial for recruiters to focus on building real relationships with candidates. Personal touches and valuable content can make all the difference!

Celinda chimes in on the need for authenticity in employer branding, reminding us that what you promise during recruitment should align with the actual employee experience. Authentic stories and consistent messaging are key to winning trust.

Want to know how AI fits into all this? Tune in to Recruiting is No Joke and don’t forget to subscribe for more insights on navigating the future of recruiting!

In this episode:

(00:36) Live interviews at Breakfast USA

(02:25) Maria Katris introduction

(03:14) Recruitment as marketing

(05:13) Candidate awareness and engagement

(06:48) Shifting mindsets in recruitment

(08:54) Challenges in implementing new strategies

(10:21) Building community and talent pools

(14:01) Global recruitment trends

(16:26) Content creation for global markets

(18:02) Authenticity in employer branding

(18:17) Employer engagement through raw video

(19:14) Market differences in recruitment

(19:52) Future of recruitment technology

(20:42) Resources for recruiters

(21:14) Power of video content

(22:05) Introduction to Golden Hippo

(23:39) Building employer brand from scratch

(24:27) Impact of employer branding on hiring

(24:50) Getting leadership buy-in

(26:10) Measuring employer branding success

(27:22) Common employer branding mistakes

(28:45) Authenticity in employer branding

(31:10) AI in employer branding

(33:04) Pitfalls of using AI

(34:34) Encouraging employee participation

(35:41) Employer branding and career videos

(36:52) Recruitment strategy integration

(37:27) Finding Golden Hippo

(38:43) Future of recruitment marketing

(39:44) Using Gen AI in recruitment

(41:02) Common employer branding mistakes

(41:58) Balancing aspirational and authentic branding

(43:23) Focus group strategies

(44:20) Leadership challenges in recruitment

(45:00) Talent attraction metrics

(45:35) Team structure in talent attraction

(46:08) Video content in recruitment

(47:52) Future of employer branding

(49:04) Tracking candidate journey

Maria Katris Social Media

• LinkedIn
• Built In

Tannum Sullivan Social Media

• LinkedIn
• Golden Hippo

Celinda Appleby Social Media

• LinkedIn
• Visa

This episode is brought to you by Built In. As the premier online community for national startups and tech companies, Built In connects you with exciting startup job opportunities, the latest tech news, and events happening in the national tech scene.

About Joel Lalgee 

Joel Lalgee is an internationally known recruitment leader and coach who has helped thousands of recruiters build their brands online. In 2015, Joel started recruiting for a small start-up agency in Milwaukee. He quickly found his passion for recruitment. In 2019, he discovered content marketing, publishing his first posts on Linkedin. Since then, he has grown to over 400k followers, and his content has been seen over 1 billion times. In 2023, he started a business specializing in coaching recruiters, marketing consulting, and influencer partnerships.

Recruiting is No Joke Social Media

• LinkedIn
• Website
• Instagram
• TikTok  
• X (formerly Twitter

Are we truly witnessing job growth, or is it just another statistical illusion? The U.S. August jobs report claims 142,000 new positions and a dip in unemployment to 4.2%, but can we really trust these figures? Is the much-anticipated September surge on the horizon, or simply wishful thinking? And why are recruiter job postings climbing when so many Australians are taking on multiple jobs just to get by? Could this be a sign of economic resilience—or a red flag we’re overlooking?

In this episode of Recruiting is No Joke host Joel Lalgee takes a closer look at the August jobs report, questioning the accuracy of the numbers and warning that revisions could be coming. He challenges the idea that 142,000 jobs were actually created and stresses the importance of digging deeper into the data for a clearer understanding of the job market.

Joel also explores the emotional toll job searching can take, sharing the struggles of job seekers who face rejection after countless applications. He offers practical advice on staying resilient and tips for those labeled "overqualified" to better tailor their applications and showcase their true value.

Wrapping up, Joel discusses the growing trend of people in Australia balancing multiple jobs and the risk of burnout that comes with it. 

Curious to know what these trends mean for your career or business? Tune in to Recruiting is No Joke, and don’t forget to subscribe for more insights on navigating today’s complex job market!

In this episode:

(01:16) August jobs report discussion

(01:46) August jobs report video

(02:53) Job market skepticism

(03:36) Job seeker experiences video

(05:28) Job search challenges highlighted

(06:35) Analysis of job types added

(08:32) Understanding unemployment rate

(10:12) Critique of common job search advice

(12:07) Job market realities

(13:55) Economic overview and layoffs to cut costs

(14:53) Introduction to September surge

(16:29) Reality check on September surge

(18:39) Conclusion on job market trends

(19:27) Discussing the August jobs report

(21:14) Emerging job trends in Australia

(22:08) Impact of extra jobs on workers

(23:40) Closing remarks and future topics

About Joel Lalgee 

Joel Lalgee is an internationally known recruitment leader and coach who has helped thousands of recruiters build their brands online. In 2015, Joel started recruiting for a small start-up agency in Milwaukee. He quickly found his passion for recruitment. In 2019, he discovered content marketing, publishing his first posts on Linkedin. Since then, he has grown to over 400k followers, and his content has been seen over 1 billion times. In 2023, he started a business specializing in coaching recruiters, marketing consulting, and influencer partnerships.

Recruiting is No Joke Social Media

• LinkedIn
• Website
• Instagram
• TikTok  
• X (formerly Twitter

Resources

• Video: US Adds 142,000 Jobs in August, Unemployment Rate 4.2%
• Greglangstaff September Surge Video

Have you ever wondered how a seemingly thriving workplace could conceal a tragedy, or if your job security is at risk due to layoffs and deceptive scams? What if a radical shift like a four-day workweek could transform our work lives, or if massive strikes signal a desperate need for change in how we treat our workforce?

In this episode of Recruiting is No Joke, Joel Lalgee explores pivotal stories and trends affecting the recruitment industry. He begins with a tragic case where a Wells Fargo employee was found dead at her desk after four days, sparking a critical discussion about corporate culture and employee well-being. Joel then introduces "career cushioning," a proactive strategy for preparing for potential layoffs, and offers practical advice on effective networking. He also touches on the recent Labor Day strikes in U.S. hotels, highlighting growing concerns over worker conditions and their broader industry impact. Additionally, Joel examines Japan's potential move to a four-day workweek and raises awareness about job offer scams. Throughout the episode, Joel incorporates personal anecdotes with industry insights, urging listeners to stay informed and take control of their careers.

In this episode:

(02:15) Wells Fargo tragedy

(05:13) Career cushioning 

(08:05) Networking strategies

(13:32) Four-day workweek in Japan

(16:16) Job offer scams warning

(18:05) Labor Day strike

(18:58) Hospitality worker shortage

(19:52) Teaching job challenges

(20:44) Healthcare worker issues

(21:36) Manufacturing job realities

(22:30) Need for better job incentives

(23:20) AI and automation in the workforce

(24:04) Wrap-up and future topics

About Joel Lalgee 

Joel Lalgee is an internationally known recruitment leader and coach who has helped thousands of recruiters build their brands online. In 2015, Joel started recruiting for a small start-up agency in Milwaukee. He quickly found his passion for recruitment. In 2019, he discovered content marketing, publishing his first posts on Linkedin. Since then, he has grown to over 400k followers, and his content has been seen over 1 billion times. In 2023, he started a business specializing in coaching recruiters, marketing consulting, and influencer partnerships.

Recruiting is No Joke Social Media

• LinkedIn
• Website
• Instagram
• TikTok  
• X (formerly Twitter

Resources

• News Article: Wells Fargo Employee Found Dead
• Japan's Four-Day Workweek Proposal
• News Article: Labor Day Strikes in U.S. Hotels

This episode is brought to you by Sourcewhale, the ultimate platform for streamlining your recruitment process and connecting with top talent efficiently. Discover how Sourcewhale can transform your hiring strategy and empower your team to thrive.

Did you know that the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has overestimated job numbers by nearly a million since March? In this episode of Recruiting is No Joke, host Joel Lalgee discusses the job market, recruitment practices, and job seekers' challenges. He begins by thanking listeners for their support following the podcast's rebranding, which boosted downloads. Joel then critiques the Bureau of Labor Statistics for overestimating job numbers, highlighting the tougher-than-reported job market. He also explores "ghost jobs," where companies post openings without intent to hire, causing frustration for job seekers. Joel emphasizes the importance of realistic expectations and encourages proactive job searching.

In this episode:

• (00:03) Introduction and rebranding
• (01:13) Job market statistics
• (02:24) The reality of job market
• (03:22) Playing a video on job market
• (06:06) Interest rates and job market validation
• (07:46) Concept of ghost jobs
• (09:06) Pipelining strategy 
• (13:26) Recruiter poll on ghost jobs
• (17:05) Job application strategies
• (19:01) The great resignation prediction
• (19:52) Counter offers on the rise
• (20:41) Job market shift
• (21:35) Future hiring trends
• (25:03) September surge discussion
• (27:38) Expectations for job seekers
• (30:31) Engagement and feedback invitation
• (31:24) Upcoming events and live sessions

About Joel Lalgee 

Joel Lalgee is an internationally known recruitment leader and coach who has helped thousands of recruiters build their brands online. In 2015, Joel started recruiting for a small start-up agency in Milwaukee. He quickly found his passion for recruitment. In 2019, he discovered content marketing, publishing his first posts on Linkedin. Since then, he has grown to over 400k followers, and his content has been seen over 1 billion times. In 2023, he started a business specializing in coaching recruiters, marketing consulting, and influencer partnerships.

Recruiting is No Joke Social Media

• LinkedIn
• Website
• Instagram
• TikTok  
• X (formerly Twitter

This episode is brought to you by Sourcewhale, the ultimate platform for streamlining your recruitment process and connecting with top talent efficiently. Discover how Sourcewhale can transform your hiring strategy and empower your team to thrive.

Have you ever wondered how recruiters tackle the tough world of government contracting? Imagine the pressure of matching candidates to roles that require top security clearances, all while dealing with a job market that's anything but straightforward.

In this episode of Recruiting is No Joke, host Joel Lalgee sits down with Benjamin Mena, the founder of Select  Source Solutions and host of the Elite Recruiter Podcast. They dive deep into the latest trends in recruitment, with a particular focus on the government contracting sector. Benjamin shares his insights on the challenges of filling specialized positions within government jobs and the complexities that arise with the USA Jobs portal.

They also discuss the impact of AI on recruitment processes and job security, offering a glimpse into the future of recruitment roles as technology continues to evolve. The conversation shifts to the ongoing trend of layoffs in the tech industry, exploring its implications for both recruiters and job seekers.

Benjamin emphasizes the importance of networking and uncovering hidden job markets, while also touching on the role of corporate culture and identity in job satisfaction and layoffs. The discussion also covers the evolving role of cover letters and why job seekers need to be proactive and adaptable in today’s job market.

Tune in to gain valuable insights and strategies to enhance your recruitment efforts.

In this episode:

• (01:29)  Benjamin's background
• (02:44)  Content creation discussion
• (04:40)  Government contracting insights
• (05:25)  Talent supply and demand
• (06:39)  Challenges in government job applications
• (07:34)  Remote work and government jobs
• (08:14)  Corporate office space dynamics
• (09:59)  Layoffs in the tech industry
• (11:00)  Impact of AI on employment
• (12:03)  Recruiting efficiency through AI
• (13:29)  Future of recruiting teams
• (14:47)  Short-term focus of companies
• (16:44)  Market predictions and economic outlook
• (17:17)  Impact of debt on layoffs
• (17:32)  AI's role in layoffs
• (18:06)  Fear of job loss
• (19:11)  Cultural impact of layoffs
• (19:36)  Corporate cost-cutting measures
• (20:35)  Corporate culture and profit
• (21:10)  Identity and work
• (21:39)  Preparing for layoffs
• (22:14)  Balancing work and life
• (22:42)  Remote work and cost of living
• (23:40)  Cover letters discussion
• (25:39)  Hiring managers' views on cover letters
• (26:59)  Poll on cover letters
• (30:32)  AI in job applications
• (31:12)  Interview AI tools
• (32:04)  Recruitment challenges
• (33:03)  Understanding the numbers game
• (33:55)  The dangers of "one itis"
• (34:35)  Maintaining a recruitment pipeline
• (36:47)  Hidden job market insights
• (37:43)  Job market realities
• (38:28)  Effective LinkedIn outreach
• (40:07)  Recruiters' true role
• (41:01)  Learning from mistakes
• (42:17)  Being specific in requests
• (45:11)  Avoiding open-ended questions
• (47:02)  Short and direct communication
• (48:38)  The reality of recruiter workloads
• (48:55)  The ideal recruitment process
• (49:03)  Corporate restructuring challenges
• (49:26)  Meeting overload in recruitment
• (49:49)  Improving recruitment efficiency
• (50:41)  Promoting the Elite Recruiter Podcast
• (51:08)  Time management on LinkedIn
• (51:26)  Balancing social media and family
• (51:58)  Understanding recruitment mindsets
• (52:48)  Closing remarks and future plans

About Joel Lalgee 

Joel Lalgee is an internationally known recruitment leader and coach who has helped thousands of recruiters build their brands online. In 2015, Joel started recruiting for a small start-up agency in Milwaukee. He quickly found his passion for recruitment. In 2019, he discovered content marketing, publishing his first posts on Linkedin. Since then, he has grown to over 400k followers, and his content has been seen over 1 billion times. In 2023, he started a business specializing in coaching recruiters, marketing consulting, and influencer partnerships.

Recruiting is No Joke Social Media

• LinkedIn
• Website
• Instagram
• TikTok  
• X (formerly Twitter

Benjamin Mena Social Media

• LinkedIn
• Website

About Our Guest

Benjamin Mena is a seasoned recruiter who began his career after earning an Economics degree from the University of Central Florida. Over 15 years, he led hiring efforts for major defense contracts, supporting some of the nation’s most complex government programs. In 2018, he founded Select Source Solutions, continuing his government support while expanding into consulting. Benjamin now leverages his economics background to guide employers in aligning recruitment practices with broader economic and tech trends. Outside of work, he enjoys running, exploring wine regions, and hosting The Elite Recruiter Podcast.

Are you still clinging to the belief that a polished resume is your golden ticket to landing that dream job? It’s time to rethink. In today’s whirlwind of recruitment trends, LinkedIn updates, TikTok tips, and social media frenzy, your online presence is just as crucial as your resume. With giants like Salesforce, Walmart, and Zoom pushing people back to the office, and mouse jigglers surfacing amid heightened monitoring, not to mention the rising layoffs and burnout in healthcare, there’s so much more to consider. Ready to navigate this brutal job market? 

In this episode of "Recruiting is No Joke," we dive into the complexities of today’s job market and how social media is reshaping recruitment. We kick off the conversation with a warm introduction to Lauren Surman, founder of LWL Consulting and our insightful co-host.

The conversation explores the tension between social media and traditional resumes, particularly in light of a viral post suggesting that social media presence may outweigh resumes in hiring decisions. We analyze this notion, highlighting that while social media is crucial for visibility, resumes still hold significant value. We also cover the balancing act between client searches and business development, tackle the issue of burnout in healthcare, and offer guidance on addressing employment gaps. We wrap up by discussing return-to-office mandates, the role of leadership in cultivating office culture, and the benefits of in-person interactions. This episode provides a thorough look at the evolving recruitment landscape, blending practical insights with a touch of humor to help job seekers and recruiters navigate these challenging times.

Tune in to discover actionable tips on balancing your social media presence with your resume, insights into overcoming burnout, and strategies for thriving in the current job market.

In this episode:

• (01:03) Introduction to  Lauren Surman
• (02:10) Lauren's show overview
• (03:42) Lauren's business growth
• (04:19) Outbound recruitment strategies
• (05:33) Discussion on resume vs. social media 
• (07:09) Lauren's take on social media's importance vs resume
• (09:24) Impact of social media on hiring
• (10:37) LinkedIn poll results
• (14:07) Job market overview
• (15:47) Industry-specific hiring insights
• (18:07) The importance of part-time jobs
• (18:41) Navigating job interviews with side hustles
• (19:15) Bridge jobs and their value
• (19:47) Advice for presenting current work
• (20:39) Openness to employment gaps
• (21:49) Transparency in recruitment
• (23:02) Job market realities
• (25:33) Corporate job market trends
• (27:21) Return to office mandates
• (29:11) Tracking employee activity
• (30:42) Remote work preferences
• (31:41) Office dynamics and budget concerns
• (33:27) Leadership and office presence
• (35:26) Remote work and pizza
• (36:20) Preparing for layoffs
• (37:51) Job market anxiety
• (39:57) Candidate questions on layoffs
• (42:15) Chipotle's controversial LinkedIn promotion offering free food 
• (43:00) Misleading job applications
• (46:23) Recruitment and job boards
• (48:51) Closing remarks and Lauren's upcoming projects

About Joel Lalgee 

Joel Lalgee is an internationally known recruitment leader and coach who has helped thousands of recruiters build their brands online. In 2015, Joel started recruiting for a small start-up agency in Milwaukee. He quickly found his passion for recruitment. In 2019, he discovered content marketing, publishing his first posts on Linkedin. Since then, he has grown to over 400k followers, and his content has been seen over 1 billion times. In 2023, he started a business specializing in coaching recruiters, marketing consulting, and influencer partnerships.

Recruiting is No Joke Social Media

• LinkedIn
• Website
• Instagram
• TikTok  
• X (formerly Twitter

Lauren Surman

• LinkedIn
• Website
• Instagram

Other Links & Mentions

• Chipotle Celebrity Status Card
• Lessons with Lauren
• Indy Star Article on Salesforce
• Friday Live with Lauren

About Our Guest

Lauren Surman is the Founder of LWL Consulting, a specialized recruiting agency excelling in SaaS, executive search, sales, and tech recruitment. Known for her "figure-it-out-no-matter-what" mentality, Lauren is magnetic, passionate, and earned the nickname "The Bad Girl of LinkedIn." Her diverse background—from hospitality to construction—equips her with a unique perspective and a well-rounded skill set. Lauren’s expertise in sales and tech recruitment, coupled with her engaging live show, "Friday Live with Lauren," offers fresh insights and keeps the industry connected and informed. She has managed teams of 100+, closed deals up to $1.2 million, and served as Mr. Marriott's personal server. Beyond work, she cherishes her role as a mom to her 6-year-old son, Axel, and enjoys golfing, spending time with her dogs, and beach sunrises. Her motto, "If I can't, my network can," reflects her belief in the power of collaboration and meaningful connections.

The job market is brutal right now, especially for folks in marketing and HR. Job scams are everywhere, AI is making things more complicated, and finding the right talent feels more competitive than ever. To top it off, some hiring practices are less than ideal, and many people are just not ready to leave their current jobs. It’s enough to make you wonder—are these so-called “ghost jobs” just setting us up for disappointment?

Today on "Recruiting is No Joke," Joel hosts a solo episode packed with vital updates and insights. He starts by expressing gratitude to listeners and encouraging them to leave reviews. Exciting news follows: Rec Fest, a major recruitment event in Nashville, is just around the corner. Joel offers a discount code to make this valuable networking opportunity even more accessible.

Joel also introduces a new community platform tailored for job seekers, designed to provide essential resources and support. He gives a shout-out to podcast sponsor Source Whale for their impactful recruitment tools. Reflecting on a recent Google ad for their AI tool, Gemini, Joel highlights a growing concern: while AI is marketed as a time-saver, many professionals find it adds to their workload and stress.

In addition, Joel addresses the current job market, prevalent job scams, and the crucial role of remote work flexibility. He shares a poignant viral video of a young woman distressed by her high-pressure job, emphasizing the need for companies to cultivate empathy and support. Joel discusses how economic pressures, like rising inflation, contribute to workplace anxiety and stresses the importance of leaders checking in with their teams.

Tune in, stay informed, and don’t miss out on the upcoming episode with our exciting guest host.

In this episode:

• (00:03) Introduction and gratitude 
• (02:10) Rec Fest in Nashville and  discount code
• (02:36) Community platform for job seekers
• (03:09) SourceWhale Sponsorship acknowledgment
• (04:17) Discussion on AI and Google's Gemini
• (11:38) Job market insights
• (13:20) Talent pipelining
• (16:18) Walmart's return to office frustration
• (18:39) Corporate hiring trends
• (20:31) Anxiety in corporate culture
• (21:16) Impact of layoffs and workload
• (22:05) Inflation and employee stress
• (22:52) Empathy in leadership
• (23:41) Retention vs. job satisfaction
• (24:28) Community for job seekers
• (25:18) Closing remarks and gratitude

About Joel Lalgee 

Joel Lalgee is an internationally known recruitment leader and coach who has helped thousands of recruiters build their brands online. In 2015, Joel started recruiting for a small start-up agency in Milwaukee. He quickly found his passion for recruitment. In 2019, he discovered content marketing, publishing his first posts on Linkedin. Since then, he has grown to over 400k followers, and his content has been seen over 1 billion times. In 2023, he started a business specializing in coaching recruiters, marketing consulting, and influencer partnerships.

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This episode is brought to you by Sourcewhale, the ultimate platform for streamlining your recruitment process and connecting with top talent efficiently. Discover how Sourcewhale can transform your hiring strategy and empower your team to thrive.