Talk Talent To Me

Hearst Director of Talent Acquisition Tony Kochar

Jun 14, 2023

32:13

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With a background in software engineering, Tony brings his technical expertise to the process of TA. Tune in to hear what motivated this pivot, why he is uniquely positioned to work in this role, and what he loves most about recruitment. Tony shares his perspective on when it is necessary to insist on working on-site, drawing on what the data says about remote work and productivity. He shares an inside perspective on Hearst’s strategy to keep employees and consumers happy, and what he considers the best use of ChatGPT. Hear about Tony’s introduction to the industry, building a team for a fintech firm and realizing he had a knack for it, and what made him want to stick with it. He also tells listeners about an opportunity he found to give back, and how you can get involved.

Key Points From This Episode:

An introduction to today’s guest, Tony Kochhar.
Hearst’s strategy to keep its employees happy, and its response to the COVID19 pandemic
How Hearst diversifies investments in different industries.
Tony’s view on roles where it is necessary to work on site.
His perspective on why executives might want to push to have people in the office.
What the data says about remote work and productivity.
Tony’s background in software engineering and entrance into acquisition.
What he realized when AI appeared on the scene.
How he realized AI could be used in recruitment.
Navigating legal concerns.
The best use of ChatGPT.
Moving from tech to recruitment.
The first team he built for a fintech firm.
What made him want to stick with recruitment.
Why recruitment is life-changing.
Finding a way to give back.
How you can get involved with the donation program.

Tweetables:

“When AI suddenly emerged almost like a bomb several months ago, I subscribed to all these various blogs and magazines, and immediately I knew, I said, ‘this is a very big deal’.” — Tony Kocchar [0:11:02]

“Treat [ChatGPT] like a really smart assistant that you’ve always wanted and now you have access to.” — Tony Kocchar [0:16:44]

“There’s a very human aspect to talent acquisition and I think that’s what kept me here.” — Tony Kocchar [0:21:15]

“You have to believe in the companies and you have to believe in the people you are representing and recruiting, your candidates.” — Tony Kocchar [00:21:56]

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Tony Kochhar on LinkedIn