Recruitment vs. Talent Acquisition: A Perspective After 25 Years in the Industry

by Veronica Blatt

Today’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 the key differences between recruitment and talent acquisition.

Come September 2025, my firm turns 25 :-). Silver Anniversaries do something to one. I’ve found myself reflecting on how much the recruitment landscape has evolved and how some things are still misunderstood.

As we all know, terminologies have changed over the years, and many new ones have come into usage. Some words/ideas have been used interchangeably so much so that the real meaning is often not realised! Read the rest of this entry »


Strategic Applications Stand Out and Get Noticed by Recruiters

by Liz Carey

Image of a dartboard with a dart in the bullseyeWhen you’re searching for a new role, it’s tempting to apply to as many jobs as possible, hoping one will stick. After all, isn’t it better to cast a wide net? Not necessarily. Recruiters often encounter a flood of applications, many of which come from candidates who simply aren’t a fit for the role. This can create delays in identifying qualified candidates and can even hurt your chances of getting noticed.

If you’re serious about finding a new job—especially in fields like accounting, finance, HR, and C-suite roles—it’s time to approach your applications with intentionality. Here’s how to stand out by working smarter, not harder, with strategic applications. Read the rest of this entry »


Temporary vs Direct-Hire Employment: Weighing the Pros and Cons

by Veronica Blatt

When considering a new job, it’s essential to evaluate whether temporary or direct-hire employment aligns better with your career goals. Both options have unique advantages and drawbacks and understanding them can help you make the best decision for your situation. Read the rest of this entry »


Questions to Ask Before You Accept a New Job

by Kerry Crockett

Landing a job offer is exciting, but before you give an enthusiastic yes, take a step back. It’s a big decision to accept a new job, and the details matter more than the title or paycheck alone. Asking the right questions now can save you from unpleasant surprises later—and help you start with clarity and confidence.  Read the rest of this entry »


What to Look for in a Recruitment Community

by Veronica Blatt

If you’re the owner of a boutique recruiting agency, or even a solopreneur, you may be interested in joining a recruitment community to build your peer group. There are many options to consider from casual networking groups to formal organizations. Here are some things to evaluate as you make your decision: Read the rest of this entry »


What to Do When Candidates Are Ghosting You

by Liz Carey

Image of a person in a ghost costume in a fieldUnresponsive candidates can be one of the most frustrating challenges for independent recruiters. You’ve crafted the perfect opportunity, matched an ideal profile, and sent what seems to be an airtight outreach message—but no reply. Whether they’re ghosting after an initial conversation or ignoring follow-up emails, unresponsive candidates can disrupt your workflow and leave clients waiting.

The reasons for candidate silence are as diverse as the candidates themselves. They may no longer be interested, overwhelmed by other commitments, or unsure about the role. Whatever the cause, there are solutions. By employing thoughtful strategies, improving communication, and maintaining a proactive approach, you can increase your chances of breaking the silence and keeping things on track. Read the rest of this entry »


Agentic AI: The Next Frontier or Fraught with Peril?

by Veronica Blatt

The AI models that most of us have been using for the past few years are “generative AI” – programs that can generate original content based on a user’s prompt or instructions. We’ve all seen examples of what happens when generative AI goes rogue or ‘hallucinates’ – inventing things out of thin air that inaccurate at best, or completely false at worst. Have you heard about the next generation of AI tools, known as “agentic AI?” Read the rest of this entry »


Hidden Job Market Secrets: Finding Unadvertised Opportunities

by Kerry Crockett

Not all job openings are posted on job boards. In fact, many of the best opportunities never make it to a public listing—they’re filled through referrals, internal promotions, or direct outreach. This hidden job market can be a goldmine if you know how to tap into it.

The first key is networking—not the awkward, hand-out-your-business-card kind, but the genuine kind. Talk to people in your industry, attend virtual events, reach out on LinkedIn, and reconnect with former colleagues. Let people know you’re open to new opportunities. The more visible and active you are in your professional circles, the more likely someone will think of you when something opens up. Read the rest of this entry »


How to Recognize a Trusted Recruiter: What Every Job Seeker Deserves

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 a trusted recruiter and also an NPAworldwide Board Director with responsibility for the Eastern North America region.

Receiving a message from a recruiter can spark curiosity, excitement, or even skepticism. Are they genuinely interested in you, or just trying to fill a position quickly? Knowing how to spot a trusted recruiter can make all the difference between a frustrating experience and a meaningful opportunity. Read the rest of this entry »


Summer Bucket List for Recruiters

by Liz Carey

Picture of a pink flamingo inflatable beach ring floating in waterSummer often brings a change of pace, but for recruiters, it’s the perfect time to focus on growing your business in fresh and creative ways. Whether things have slowed down for you or the market is buzzing, there’s always room to fine-tune your strategies and build momentum for the months ahead. This summer bucket list is packed with simple, actionable ideas to help you network, sharpen your skills, and strengthen relationships with both candidates and clients. Take advantage of the sunny season to set yourself up for success! Read the rest of this entry »


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