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Humour and Effective Communication in Recruitment

by Veronica Blatt

young professionals laughingToday’s guest blogger is Parvathy Krishnan of Cucumber Consultants in Hyderabad, India. Cucumber Consultants has core expertise in executive recruitment, with a focus on placing C-suite executives such as CFOs and other senior leadership roles across diverse industries. Parvathy is currently serving on the NPAworldwide Board of Directors. Here, she discusses how appropriate humour can create effective communication in recruitment.

Eva Hoffman said, “There is nothing like a gleam of humor to reassure you that a fellow human being is ticking inside a strange face.”

Recruitment is serious business! But that doesn’t mean it can’t have a lighter touch. Good humour and effective communication woven well into the hiring process can make the experience fun-filled, efficient, and impactful for all the stake holders – employers, candidates, and recruitment firms. Does it matter? It sure does! Read the rest of this entry »

The Impact of Layoffs on the Recruiting Industry

by Liz Carey

picture of a stone thrown in water with ripple effectsThere are promising signs of growth for the New Year, but not everyone can count on job stability heading into 2025. The closing months of 2024 brought further challenges for workers in certain industries, with several major employers announcing layoffs for the year ahead. From the tech giants downsizing their teams to shifts in manufacturing and retail, layoffs are influencing not just job seekers but also the very fabric of talent acquisition. For recruiters, this brings challenges and opportunities alike.

This blog explores the impact of layoffs on the recruiting industry, the hurdles recruiters face, and the strategies they can employ to adapt and thrive in these changing times.

Understanding the Layoff Scenario

Layoffs are not new, but the scale and frequency have gained unprecedented momentum in the last few years. The volatile economic climate, shifts in consumer behavior, and technological disruptions have all contributed to this trend.

The numbers speak for themselves:

  • Tech Sector: More than 152,000 tech workers have been laid off in 2024 alone, as cited by Layoffs.fyi.
  • Retail: With the rise of e-commerce, traditional retail brands have downsized their in-store teams, leading to widespread job losses.
  • SMBs: Economic uncertainty has hit small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), driving layoffs as they cut costs to stay afloat.

These figures highlight the turbulence, but beyond the numbers lie ripple effects that extend into the hiring world.

Impact on Recruiting Practices

Layoffs have fundamentally shifted the way talent acquisition operates. Here’s how:

1. A Surge in Applicant Pools

With a larger number of job seekers entering the market due to layoffs, recruiters face an overwhelming influx of applications. Sorting through hundreds or even thousands of resumes requires both efficiency and precision, making technology like applicant tracking systems (ATS) and AI-driven recruitment tools more important than ever.

2. Elevated Competition for Top Talent

Despite large pools of candidates, competition remains fierce for top-tier talent. Layoffs often put highly skilled professionals back on the market, creating opportunities for recruiters to secure exceptional hires, but it also means businesses are competing more aggressively for the same talent.

3. Shift Toward Flexible Staffing Models

Many organizations are moving toward hybrid and gig-based employment to maintain agility, reducing long-term commitments. This shift has pushed recruiters to adapt their strategies to find candidates willing to work in non-traditional roles without compromising value.

Opportunities for Innovation and Adaptation

Every challenge brings opportunities. Layoffs, despite their inherent negative implications, have opened doors for innovation within the recruitment industry.

1. Investing in AI & Automation

Tools like AI-powered resume screening, chatbots for candidate communication, and predictive analytics are transforming how recruiters work. These technologies save time and ensure that the best candidates aren’t overlooked.

2. Upskilling Recruiters

Layoffs have prompted a reevaluation of skill sets not just for candidates but for recruiters as well. Gaining expertise in candidate experience management, DEI (diversity, equity, inclusion) recruitment, and data analysis have become key.

3. Building Talent Communities

Recruiters are focusing on creating solid relationships with candidates, even if immediate placements aren’t available. Establishing talent pools ensures a ready database of pre-qualified candidates when new roles emerge.

4. Highlighting Employer Branding

Recruiters have started doubling down on employer branding strategies to counter the effects of layoffs. Highlighting what makes an organization a stable, inviting, and growth-centric workplace is essential in attracting top talent.

Supporting Recruiters Through Change

The fluctuations in the recruiting industry require resilience, adaptability, and continuous learning. Here are some actionable steps recruiters can take to stay ahead during these turbulent times:

  • Leverage Technology: Consider integrating ATS tools or platforms like LinkedIn Recruiter, or explore AI solutions to optimize screening processes.
  • Stay Data-Driven: Make informed hiring decisions by studying post-layoff market trends and relying on talent analytics tools.
  • Engage in Continuous Education: Attend workshops, webinars, or enroll in certifications for recruiting professionals to polish your skills.
  • Build Candidate Relationships: Use personalized outreach and focus on candidate care to create lasting impressions.
  • Seek Collaborative Opportunities: Consider joining recruitment networks that provide support, share industry knowledge, and open doors to collaborative hiring.

A Forward-Thinking Outlook on the Recruiting Industry

Layoffs, while unsettling, are reshaping the recruiting industry into a more adaptive, innovative, and purposeful field. From the adoption of advanced technology to better understanding candidate needs, recruiters are uniquely positioned to evolve during these challenging times.

The future of recruitment lies in meeting challenges head-on—with an eye toward both human relationships and technological efficiency. By understanding the changing dynamics of talent acquisition, recruiters can not only overcome obstacles but redefine the hiring landscape for years to come.

Are you ready to adapt and thrive in this changing recruitment environment? Share your thoughts and insights in the comments below. The more we connect and engage as an industry, the stronger we grow together.

Upskilling and Reskilling: Prepping for the Future

by Liz Carey

A stack of books and a notebook and pen for a study sessionThe future of work is rapidly evolving, and staying competitive in recruitment requires more than just connecting candidates with companies. Independent recruiters who thrive in this fast-changing environment know that today’s workforce values growth opportunities as much as competitive pay. Upskilling and reskilling are no longer optional for organizations—they are critical to attracting and retaining top talent.

This post explores why upskilling and reskilling are essential for recruitment success and provides actionable strategies to help you position continuous learning as a key value proposition in your recruitment efforts. Read the rest of this entry »

Clients’ Employer Branding Impacts Recruiting Success

by Liz Carey

employer branding scene with laptop and logoFor independent recruiters, competing against large-scale agencies and internal talent acquisition teams can often feel daunting. That is why it is so critical to focus on your clients’ employer branding — its specific impact on independent recruiters deserves attention.

Unlike in-house recruitment teams, independent recruiters need to represent not just one organization but often multiple employers who may not have a strong brand presence. Potential candidates are investigating company reputations more deeply than ever before, assessing everything from work culture to mission alignment and leadership authenticity. For an independent recruiter, this means that promoting a robust employer brand on behalf of their clients is now a minimum standard for staying competitive.

But there’s a secondary layer—your own reputation. Candidates associate independent recruiters not only with the companies they represent but also with the recruiter’s personal brand. This dual responsibility makes employer branding doubly critical.

How This Affects Recruitment Strategies

  1. Building Trust with Candidates
    Candidates increasingly seek transparency during the hiring process. Independent recruiters must act as ambassadors for their clients, clearly communicating values, culture, and long-term opportunities offered by the employer. A lack of clarity or a weak employer pitch can derail candidate interest, leaving independent recruiters outperformed by companies with stronger branding.

  2. Attracting Better Clients
    Employers looking to fill critical roles are now more likely to evaluate recruiters based on their ability to “sell” their brand to top talent. Demonstrating mastery in promoting employer identity, work environments, and growth opportunities can set independent recruiters apart when pitching their services to new clients.

  3. Social Media and Online Presence
    Independent recruiters need to be more proactive on platforms like LinkedIn and industry-specific forums. Sharing success stories, updates, and professional insights not only builds the recruiter’s credibility but allows them to weave engaging narratives around their client’s brands. This boosts visibility among passive candidates who may otherwise remain unapproachable.

Practical Steps for Independent Recruiters

  • Conduct Employer Brand Audits
    Partner with clients to assess their branding assets. What do their career pages, reviews, and social media footprint reveal about the company? If these elements are lacking, work collaboratively to craft materials that tell a compelling story.

  • Refine Your Candidate Experience
    Independent recruiters should build their processes around personalized candidate engagement. Keeping candidates informed, promptly answering queries, and helping them understand an employer’s unique advantages can leave a lasting impression.

  • Develop a Personal Brand Too
    It’s not just about your clients’ brands—how you position yourself matters. An independent recruiter who is seen as knowledgeable, trustworthy, and well-connected in the industry will be sought out by both candidates and clients.

For independent recruiters, employer branding isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a strategy for long-term success in a highly competitive market. By championing both their clients’ brands and their own reputation, these solo players can attract better candidates, secure higher-value clients, and ensure relevance in 2024’s demanding recruiting environment. Establish your influence as more than just a hiring intermediary; become an indispensable partner in creating exceptional employer narratives.

Ending Ghosting: How to Prevent Communication Breakdowns Between Recruiters and Candidates

by Veronica Blatt

Today’s guest blogger is Jenn Anderson, owner and founder of Prestige Recruiting Firm based in Clearwater, FL.  Prestige Recruiting Firm specializes in recruiting executive sales professionals, senior leadership, and company infrastructure employees, in the medical device manufacturing, process automation sales and services, higher education, and commercial construction industries. Jenn is also an NPAworldwide Board Director with responsibility for the Eastern North America region.

“Ghosting”—we all know the term, and most of us dislike it. 😒 Whether it’s candidates disappearing after an interview or recruiters going silent after a promising conversation, ghosting in the hiring process frustrates everyone involved. But with better communication from the start, ghosting can be avoided. In this post, I’ll explore why ghosting happens on both sides and share tips to prevent it based on my experience. 🗣️✨ Read the rest of this entry »

Things Change, and Recruiters Adapt

by Veronica Blatt

It’s no secret that hiring has slowed recently and there are many factors contributing to that. One of those things, I believe, is the cyclical nature of the US presidential election which seems to always involve a certain amount of “wait-and-see” breath-holding by employers of all sorts. Some things are likely to change (for better or worse), some things will remain, and as always, the best recruiters adapt to the needs of the market. Read the rest of this entry »

Strengthening Relationships: A Guide for Recruiters

by Liz Carey

Picture of a Thanksgiving scene with a table that has pumpkin pie, bread, and drinks being passed aroundThis week brings Turkey, stuffing and pumpkin pie to those celebrating Thanksgiving here in the United States. The holiday provides the perfect backdrop for strengthening relationships with both candidates and clients. For recruiters, it’s not just about celebrating the season—it’s an opportunity to foster connections, show gratitude, and stand out by creating meaningful touchpoints. Here are some practical ways you can use this season to enhance your recruitment relationships.

1. Send Thoughtful, Personalized Messages

One simple yet effective way to show appreciation is through personalized Thanksgiving messages. Often, a heartfelt email or a handwritten note can go a long way in building trust and loyalty. When crafting your message, take the time to reflect on the specific ways your candidates and clients have contributed to your success.

For example, you could write to a candidate to thank them for trusting your services during their job search or to a client for allowing you to be part of their hiring process. Make sure your message is more than just a generic greeting—include personal touches that make it clear you value them.

2. Host Thanksgiving-Themed Events

Thanksgiving provides an excellent reason to connect in a more personal way through events. Depending on your audience and comfort levels, consider organizing a virtual or in-person gathering.

  • Virtual Events: Host a Thanksgiving-themed webinar or networking session. Include icebreakers like “What’s your favorite Thanksgiving dish?” or open with a gratitude exercise to build rapport among attendees.
  • In-Person Gatherings: If circumstances allow, a small get-together over coffee or lunch can be a meaningful way to catch up with your clients or candidates.

These gatherings don’t have to be large—keeping them intimate allows for quality conversations that deepen your relationships.

3. Share Gratitude Publicly

Thanksgiving is the season of gratitude. Use your company’s digital platforms to recognize those who play a critical role in your business. A social media post thanking your candidates for their resilience or your clients for their partnership is a thoughtful yet public way to show appreciation. Even featuring positive testimonials or success stories can help humanize your brand while demonstrating gratitude.

Additionally, you might consider sending out a seasonal newsletter. Alongside sharing resources or updates, include a thank-you section to spotlight standout candidates or express appreciation for long-term clients.

4. Create a Positive Company Culture

A recruitment firm’s success relies heavily on the strength of its internal team. Thanksgiving isn’t just an opportunity to connect externally—it’s a chance to give back to your employees too. Consider gifting small tokens of appreciation, such as gift cards or an extra day off to celebrate the season.

Virtual or in-office Thanksgiving lunches, where everyone gets to share what they’re thankful for, can also nurture a sense of gratitude and unity within the team. A happy internal culture translates into better service for candidates and clients.

Why Gratitude Matters for Recruiters

Gratitude forms the foundation of lasting relationships. Candidates appreciate knowing that you see them as more than just resumes. Similarly, clients value recruiters who genuinely recognize their business and partnership. By using Thanksgiving as a moment to express thanks and build connections, you reinforce your reputation as a trusted partner in their success.

End on a Warm Note

This Thanksgiving, take the time to nurture your most important connections. With a thoughtful card, an engaging event, or a simple “thank you,” you can show candidates and clients alike that they’re not just part of your network—they’re part of your story.

Start planning now to make the most of the season, and watch as your gratitude strengthens the relationships that drive your recruitment success. Happy Thanksgiving!

Read the rest of this entry »

Tech Disruption: Revolutionizing Recruitment Processes

by Liz Carey

Image of blurred computer scripting language regarding tech disruptionWith technology evolving at an unprecedented rate, recruiters must adapt to the new tools and innovations that are reshaping how we find, engage, and hire talent. Today, we’ll explore how tech disruption is revolutionizing recruitment processes, highlighting the significant role played by AI, augmented reality, blockchain, and chatbots in this transformation. This post will provide you with insights into incorporating these technologies effectively, ensuring your recruitment approach remains cutting-edge. Read the rest of this entry »

Recruitment Firm Budget Busters to Avoid

by Veronica Blatt

As we move into the final months of 2024, many business owners are starting to work on next year’s budget. While you’ve likely got a good handle on income and expenses, there are some recruitment firm budget busters you’ll either want to avoid or plan to accommodate. Read the rest of this entry »

The Candidate Experience is Crucial to Recruitment Success

by Liz Carey

A stack of rocks balancing on one anotherRecruiters often focus on matching skills to roles, but there’s an often-overlooked aspect that plays a pivotal role in recruitment success—the candidate experience. This process not only affects the individuals applying but also has significant implications for the employer’s brand and the reputation of the recruiter. Let’s explore why enhancing this experience is crucial and how it can create a ripple effect, benefiting everyone involved. Read the rest of this entry »

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