Recruitment is full of tough lessons, but few people know them better than Greg Savage. 

In this episode, we cut through the noise and get straight to what really makes a great recruiter—beyond just hitting KPIs. Greg shares unfiltered insights on why most training is a waste of time, the biggest mistakes recruiters make when handling counteroffers, and why elite recruiters master the art of influence, not just the science of the job. 

He also calls out the industry’s obsession with AI, explaining why some tools are making things worse before they get better. If you want to sharpen your skills, boost your placements, and stay ahead in a changing market, this episode is a must-listen.

Must-Hear Insights and Key Moments

• The biggest mistake recruitment leaders make in downturns – Greg explains why cutting back on training and marketing when times are tough is the exact opposite of what companies should be doing.
• Why most recruitment training is a waste of time – Greg shares his unfiltered view on why traditional training fails and what actually works to develop top-performing recruiters.
• The power of influence in recruitment – It’s not about automation alone—Greg breaks down how the best recruiters master persuasion, storytelling, and human connection to close deals.
• AI’s role in recruitment: Hype vs. reality – Greg discusses how AI is reshaping the industry, where it’s useful, and where it’s making things worse.
• Managing high performers: Why top billers still need coaching – Greg challenges the common practice of leaving top recruiters alone and explains how leaders can take them from good to great.
• Lessons from recruitment disasters – He shares some of his biggest mistakes in recruitment and what they taught him about resilience, accountability, and earning trust.

About Greg Savage

Greg Savage is one of the most respected voices in the global recruitment and professional services industries. With a career spanning over four decades, he has built, scaled, and advised numerous successful recruitment businesses worldwide. As the founder of several thriving agencies and a sought-after speaker, Greg’s insights on leadership, business growth, and industry evolution have shaped the careers of countless recruiters.

He is the author of The Savage Truth, a book that blends his personal journey with valuable lessons on leadership, personal branding, and high-performance business strategies. His widely followed blog, The Savage Truth, is a go-to resource for recruiters looking to stay ahead in the industry. Recognized as a LinkedIn Top Voice, Greg continues to influence and mentor recruitment professionals through keynotes, masterclasses, and his online training academy.

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