The Elite Recruiter Podcast

Episode 100 of The Elite Recruiter Podcast delves into the power of curiosity, empathy, and tenacity as essential attributes for recruiters to achieve success. Host Benjamin Mena sits down with Brian Fink, an experienced recruiter and author, to explore how these qualities can elevate a recruiter's performance. Fink shares valuable insights from their own journey in the industry, highlighting the importance of proactive outreach, asking relevant questions, and conducting thorough research to find the right candidates. Listeners will gain practical strategies for nurturing empathy and building strong relationships with both hiring managers and candidates, ultimately enhancing their effectiveness as recruiters. In this episode, Brian Fink draws on their extensive experience as a recruiter to discuss the key qualities that set exceptional recruiters apart. Fink emphasizes the need for unwavering tenacity, highlighting the value of not just relying on emails, but also making direct phone calls and actively pursuing opportunities. They also touch on the significance of empathy in understanding candidates' aspirations and needs when matching them with suitable roles. With a wealth of knowledge, Fink's insights inspire recruiters to be more proactive, go beyond surface-level engagement, and create meaningful connections that lead to successful placements. For recruiters looking to level up their skills, Fink offers invaluable advice for harnessing the power of curiosity and empathy. They share practical tips on resume building, including the use of numbers and value-driven highlights. Fink also addresses the sometimes overlooked potential of transitioning from corporate recruiting to agency roles, underscoring the opportunity for increased earnings based on performance. As an author themselves, Fink introduces their book, aimed at guiding and empowering aspiring recruiters of all levels. This episode is a must-listen for recruiters seeking to enhance their effectiveness by cultivating curiosity, empathy, and tenacity. Signup for future emails from The Elite Recruiter Podcast: https://eliterecruiterpodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe  YouTube: https://youtu.be/TBLT76lWvr8 Brian Fink LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianfink/ Talk Tech to Me Book: https://amzn.to/452FQKh Brian Fink Blog: https://thebrianfink.medium.com/ With your Host Benjamin Mena with Select Source Solutions: http://www.selectsourcesolutions.com/ Benjamin Mena LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminmena/ Benjamin Mena Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benlmena/ Benjamin Mena TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@benjaminlmena

Inside the Mind of a Recruiting Pioneer: Adam Posner's Podcasting Success Story In this episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast, Benjamin Mena sits down with Adam Posner, founder of NHP Talent Group and host of the renowned Pozcast. Adam shares his journey as a recruiter, highlighting how he discovered the power of podcasting in the recruiting industry. With years of experience at search firms and a passion for authentic conversations, Adam launched his podcast to go beyond conventional job advice and offer engaging interviews that humanize his guests. Through the Pozcast, Adam has brought together hundreds of experts and thought leaders in marketing, media, and ad tech. With almost 300 episodes and millions of downloads, his podcast has become a powerful tool for building his personal brand, showcasing his industry expertise, and establishing social proof and credibility. By featuring decision makers and industry professionals as guests, Adam has not only enhanced his own credibility but also built lasting relationships with potential clients, turning his podcast into a business development driver. Adam shares valuable insights on how podcasting can add significant value to the recruitment process. From a candidate's perspective, being featured on a respected podcast like the Pozcast increases credibility and social proof, giving them a competitive edge in the job market. On the other hand, recruiters can leverage podcasting as a platform to develop strong relationships and connect with key hiring decision makers, bypassing traditional cold calling and cold emailing strategies. As the episode concludes, Adam reflects on his own journey in the recruiting industry, from being fired to starting his own business and finding success as a recruiter and podcast host. He shares lessons learned, the importance of outsourcing tasks, and the tools like Riverside that have made content creation and editing more efficient. With a wealth of experience in the advertising industry and a strong foundation in client management, Adam Posner's insights in this episode offer invaluable guidance for recruiters and job seekers alike. Keywords: podcasting, recruiting, Pozcast, social proof, credibility, brand building, industry expertise, business development, Vcon event, micro content, active listening, flexibility, outsourcing, Riverside, client management. Signup for future emails from The Elite Recruiter Podcast: https://eliterecruiterpodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe  YouTube: https://youtu.be/7Xphf2d3ShE Adam Posner LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjposner/ PozCast Playbook: https://www.thepozcourse.com/ Pozcast: https://thepozcast.com/ With your Host Benjamin Mena with Select Source Solutions: http://www.selectsourcesolutions.com/ Benjamin Mena LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminmena/ Benjamin Mena Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benlmena/ Benjamin Mena TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@benjaminlmena

Welcome back to another episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast! In this episode, we have the privilege of hosting the insightful Kalifa Oliver, as we delve into the crucial topic of upgrading the candidate experience. Join us as we explore the flaws and biases within the recruitment process and discuss the need for a more human-centered approach. Kalifa Oliver takes center stage to shed light on the pitfalls of relying solely on resumes and past experiences when evaluating a candidate's suitability for a role. They elaborate on how people are in a constant state of growth and change, and recruiters must consider this evolution rather than simply analyzing static skills on paper. The guest boldly questions the notion of meritocracy and devises an argument against it, asserting that it ultimately hinders the recruitment process rather than enhancing it. Prepare to be captivated as Kalifa shares deeply personal experiences that challenge conventional wisdom, such as shrinking oneself to avoid intimidation and questioning the status quo when it comes to the composition of rooms. Our discussion takes a thought-provoking turn as we hone in on the insufficiencies of the candidate experience and the impact it has on an organization's reputation. Kalifa recounts both positive and negative encounters they have had during their own job searches, emphasizing how these experiences shaped their perception of the companies involved. Furthermore, they express their frustration with the common oversight of the candidate experience as an essential component of the recruitment process. As we explore the consequences of rushing hiring decisions and treating candidates as mere numbers, Kalifa passionately advocates for humanizing the process, treating recruiters and candidates with respect, and focusing on the importance of effective communication. The interview concludes with a fascinating analysis of the current state of recruiting systems and the vulnerabilities within them. Kalifa highlights the rise of scams and data misuse on platforms such as LinkedIn and Indeed, emphasizing the need for caution and a critical eye when navigating the vast networks of job search platforms. We also delve into the disconnect between talent acquisition and system implementation, shedding light on the frustration experienced by both candidates and recruiters. Moreover, we explore the shifting expectations and desires of new generations entering the workforce, emphasizing the growing importance of work-life balance and control. Join us in this eye-opening episode as we address the flaws in the recruitment process and chart a course towards a more holistic, human-centered approach to upgrading the candidate experience. Stay tuned for fresh insights from thought leader Kalifa Oliver that will revolutionize the way you view talent acquisition! Signup for future emails from The Elite Recruiter Podcast: https://eliterecruiterpodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe  YouTube:  https://youtu.be/n9hQbIjDjLA Kalifa Oliver LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kalifaoliver/ Kalifa Oliver: http://www.kalifaoliver.com/    With your Host Benjamin Mena with Select Source Solutions: http://www.selectsourcesolutions.com/ Benjamin Mena LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminmena/ Benjamin Mena Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benlmena/ Benjamin Mena TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@benjaminlmena

Title: Thinking Outside of The Box for New Business with James Aiken Host: Benjamin Mena Guest: James Aiken  In this episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast, host Benjamin Mena is joined by special guest James Aiken, an experienced recruiter who shares valuable insights on thinking outside of the box to drive new business in the industry.   James highlights the importance of specializing in a specific niche within the industry and geography, zooming in to gain a deeper understanding and effective communication with clients. He advises recruiters to build a matrix and fill their calendar with introductions to active or passive candidates. James emphasizes prioritizing live conversations with clients and candidates to maximize results.  One key strategy mentioned is having a roster of potential candidates to offer, enhancing your sales pitch and demonstrating expertise and understanding to gain the confidence of prospects. James also discusses the significance of scaling one's desk and leveraging team strengths, as well as evaluating the value received from an agency.  He shares his journey of becoming an independent recruiter and starting his own business then partnering with Frederick Fox, which aims to assist independent recruiters in handling non-revenue producing activities. James explains how he met Will Spangler and formed a successful split deal that led to multiple deals and eventually joining Frederick Fox as a team.  Listeners will also learn about James' innovative approach to recruiting, including the creation of a "job lander" – inspired by digital marketing – to minimize risk and provide cost-effective solutions for clients. He emphasizes the power of networking, learning from others, and consistently participating in the market to build relationships and open new opportunities.  The episode covers various strategies such as creating specific pages for each job, utilizing targeted advertising on platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn, retargeting potential candidates or clients, and aggressively implementing paid traffic and direct marketing.  James also shares his insights on maintaining a resilient mindset, handling emotional turmoil, and finding balance in life. He recommends books like "The Millionaire Fastlane" by TJ DeMarco and "How to Fail at Everything and Still Win Big" by Scott Adams as valuable resources for personal and professional growth.  Tune in to this episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast to gain valuable tips and insights on thinking outside of the box for new business in the recruiting industry. Learn from James Aiken's experiences and expertise as he shares strategies and advice that can help you take your recruiting career to the next level.  Keywords: recruiting, business, specialization, communication, clients, candidates, sales pitch, expertise, independent recruiters, split deals, Frederick Fox, job lander, networking, targeted advertising, resilience, mindset, personal growth, professional growth  Signup for future emails from The Elite Recruiter Podcast: https://eliterecruiterpodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe  YouTube: https://youtu.be/gEDHx4E0meo James Aiken LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpaiken/ Fredrick Fox: https://frederickfox.com/  With your Host Benjamin Mena with Select Source Solutions: http://www.selectsourcesolutions.com/ Benjamin Mena LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminmena/ Benjamin Mena Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benlmena/ Benjamin Mena TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@benjaminlmena

In this episode, Roheel Ahmad, co-founder of Forsyth Barnes, joins host Benjamin Mena to discuss the strategies and mindset required to grow a business globally while prioritizing the well-being of employees. Ahmad shares his observations about the cultural differences between American and British self-belief and self-confidence, the importance of maintaining an optimistic mindset, and the potential impact of AI on the recruitment industry. Listeners will gain insights into scaling businesses, structuring marketing departments for success, and delivering a superior offer process that leaves a lasting positive impression. Key Lessons: 1. Embrace deluded self-belief: Ahmad emphasizes the power of self-confidence and the ability to view failure as a stepping stone rather than a setback. 2. Align marketing departments with revenue targets: Ahmad provides guidance on structuring marketing teams to achieve business objectives and generate tangible results. 3. Deliver exceptional value throughout the offer process: Ahmad shares strategies for creating a journey and building anticipation before making an offer, leaving a lasting impression on potential clients. 4. Think outside the box: Ahmad encourages listeners to seek inspiration from other industries and incorporate innovative ideas into their own processes. 5. Focus on growth over saving money: Ahmad highlights the importance of investing in growth rather than solely focusing on cost-saving measures, emphasizing the long-term benefits. Call to Actions: 1. Reflect on your own self-belief and mindset: Take a moment to assess your level of self-confidence and determine if there are areas where you can embrace deluded self-belief to propel your growth and success. 2. Evaluate the alignment of your marketing department: Consider how closely your marketing efforts are aligned with revenue targets and explore opportunities for restructuring to optimize results. 3. Enhance your offer process: Take inspiration from Ahmad's strategies and think about how you can create a journey, build anticipation, and deliver exceptional value throughout the entire offer process. As businesses strive for global growth, it is essential to balance expansion with the well-being of employees. In this episode, Roheel Ahmad shares his journey, insights, and strategies for achieving ambitious growth goals while prioritizing the care of your team. Whether you're an entrepreneur looking to scale your business or a professional seeking inspiration, this conversation offers valuable lessons, practical advice, and a fresh perspective on achieving success in the competitive global market. Tune in to gain insights that will empower you to grow your business while taking care of your people. https://www.eliterecruiterpodcast.com/s1e96 Signup for future emails from The Elite Recruiter Podcast: https://eliterecruiterpodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe  YouTube: https://youtu.be/gZ7H0L237xQ Roheel Ahmad LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roheelahmad/ Forsyth Barnes: https://www.forsythbarnes.com/  With your Host Benjamin Mena with Select Source Solutions: http://www.selectsourcesolutions.com/ Benjamin Mena LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminmena/ Benjamin Mena Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benlmena/ Benjamin Mena TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@benjaminlmena

In this episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast, host Benjamin Mena sits down with seasoned recruiter Justin Bellante to dive deep into the transformative power of persistence and how the field of recruiting can truly change lives. Join us as we explore Justin's remarkable journey, from overcoming imposter syndrome and poverty to building a successful career in the healthcare industry. Through his inspiring story, we uncover the secrets to achieving remarkable success as a recruiter and how persistence can lead to life-altering opportunities. Persistence is the name of the game, and Justin Bellante is the living proof of its transformative power. As Justin shares his personal experiences, he highlights the vital lesson of consistently evaluating new healthcare organizations. Justin firmly believes that follow-up is the key to effective sales, and he emphasizes the importance of multiple attempts to connect with potential clients and candidates. Throughout his career, Justin's unwavering persistence has proven to be the catalyst for securing meaningful placements and opening doors of opportunity. A significant turning point in Justin's life occurred when someone stepped into his world and offered their support. Mentoring played a crucial role, and Justin shares how finding a mentor who excels in their field was instrumental in his personal growth. Over the years, Justin has discovered the importance of asking questions and showing a thirst for knowledge, which has propelled him to unimaginable heights. Furthermore, he emphasizes the significance of having someone in your corner throughout your career, providing guidance and support when it matters most. Recruiting not only changed Justin's professional life but also altered his entire outlook on life. By conquering his fears and embracing persistence, Justin discovered that the person on the other end of the phone is just another human being, regardless of their status or position. He highlights the exhilarating experience of calling CEOs and the valuable conversations that ensued. Justin's journey teaches us that without making the call, we can't have a meaningful conversation, and nothing will happen if we don't pick up the phone. Join Benjamin Mena and guest Justin Bellante in this inspiring episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast as they explore the key lessons learned from Justin's remarkable journey. From persistently pursuing opportunities to embracing the human connection, Justin showcases how the world of recruiting can transform lives. Tune in to discover the power of persistence, hear captivating stories of success, and embark on your own transformative journey as a recruiter. Signup for future emails from The Elite Recruiter Podcast: https://eliterecruiterpodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe  YouTube: https://youtu.be/gP7KBFomL0w Justin Bellante LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinbellante/ Titan Placement Group: https://titanplacementgroup.com/  With your Host Benjamin Mena with Select Source Solutions: http://www.selectsourcesolutions.com/ Benjamin Mena LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminmena/ Benjamin Mena Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benlmena/ Benjamin Mena TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@benjaminlmena

In this episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast, host Benjamin Mena welcomes special guest Will McGhee to discuss the differences between product marketing and solution marketing. McGhee, who unexpectedly found himself in the recruiting world, shares his journey from selling server farm resources to becoming a successful recruiter. He highlights the importance of evolving with the industry and adapting to new methodologies, such as using social media, AI, automation, and email marketing. McGhee emphasizes the significance of understanding the market and the value that candidates bring to clients. Successful business development hinges on aligning candidate skills with client needs and market demands. He introduces the concept of solution-based marketing, where the focus is on selling the company and its unique services, rather than solely promoting candidates. McGhee shares anecdotes and practical strategies to tailor messaging and address specific pain points to win more business. The conversation also delves into the mentality needed for success in any field, drawing inspiration from sports legends like Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan. McGhee delves into the power of childhood trauma as a motivating force and encourages listeners to find peace and balance while channeling adversity to achieve their goals. He recommends books and resources on negotiation and mindset to help listeners adopt the right attitude for success. Ultimately, this episode is a deep dive into the world of recruiting, marketing, and personal development, providing valuable insights for anyone looking to excel in their career. Signup for future emails from The Elite Recruiter Podcast: https://eliterecruiterpodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe  YouTube: https://youtu.be/bxpyRVURhWM James O’Brien LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willmcghee/ Recruiting with Dynamite: https://recruitingwithdynamite.beehiiv.com/  With your Host Benjamin Mena with Select Source Solutions: http://www.selectsourcesolutions.com/ Benjamin Mena LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminmena/ Benjamin Mena Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benlmena/ Benjamin Mena TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@benjaminlmena

In this episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast, host Benjamin Mena welcomes special guest Will McGhee to discuss the differences between product marketing and solution marketing. McGhee, who unexpectedly found himself in the recruiting world, shares his journey from selling server farm resources to becoming a successful recruiter. He highlights the importance of evolving with the industry and adapting to new methodologies, such as using social media, AI, automation, and email marketing. McGhee emphasizes the significance of understanding the market and the value that candidates bring to clients. Successful business development hinges on aligning candidate skills with client needs and market demands. He introduces the concept of solution-based marketing, where the focus is on selling the company and its unique services, rather than solely promoting candidates. McGhee shares anecdotes and practical strategies to tailor messaging and address specific pain points to win more business. The conversation also delves into the mentality needed for success in any field, drawing inspiration from sports legends like Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan. McGhee delves into the power of childhood trauma as a motivating force and encourages listeners to find peace and balance while channeling adversity to achieve their goals. He recommends books and resources on negotiation and mindset to help listeners adopt the right attitude for success. Ultimately, this episode is a deep dive into the world of recruiting, marketing, and personal development, providing valuable insights for anyone looking to excel in their career. Signup for future emails from The Elite Recruiter Podcast: https://eliterecruiterpodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe  YouTube: https://youtu.be/bxpyRVURhWM James O’Brien LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willmcghee/ Recruiting with Dynamite: https://recruitingwithdynamite.beehiiv.com/  With your Host Benjamin Mena with Select Source Solutions: http://www.selectsourcesolutions.com/ Benjamin Mena LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminmena/ Benjamin Mena Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benlmena/ Benjamin Mena TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@benjaminlmena

From Contingent to Retained SEarch with James O'Brien and I-Intro Signup for future emails from The Elite Recruiter Podcast: https://eliterecruiterpodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe Are you ready to level up your recruitment game? In this episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast, our host Benjamin Mena sits down with special guest James O'Brien from I-Intro, a seasoned recruitment leader with a sales background from the UK. James takes us on his journey from stumbling into the recruitment industry to becoming an advocate for our intro, a company focused on helping recruitment businesses transition from contingent to retained work. Exploring the differences between contingent and retained recruitment models, James uncovers why retained recruiters stand out. While contingent recruiters primarily focus on candidate identification, retained recruiters go deeper, investing more time and effort in the assessment and evaluation of candidates. However, James highlights the challenges faced by the retained recruitment industry, particularly in terms of business development and reputation. Breaking free from the traditional mindset that lower fees equate to better business, James reveals that sustainable success in the industry requires fair pricing and demonstrating the value recruiters bring to the table. With a lower fill rate compared to retained recruiters, contingent recruitment becomes a numbers game that may not always yield the desired results. As the conversation unfolds, James introduces the concept of utilizing multiple layers of scientific and objective assessment to facilitate better hiring decisions. He proudly shares that 96% of candidates placed through their methodology are still in the job after 1 year, and 93% remain after 2 years – a testament to the effectiveness of their approach. Are you ready to take your recruitment business to the next level? Join Benjamin Mena and James O'Brien as they discuss the transition from contingent to retained recruitment and share valuable insights and strategies to drive revenue, increase margins, and improve cash flow. Tune in to The Elite Recruiter Podcast and unlock the secrets to success in the competitive recruitment industry. Signup for future emails from The Elite Recruiter Podcast: https://eliterecruiterpodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe  YouTube: https://youtu.be/mfN0nd00vY4 James O’Brien LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iintro/ I-Intro: www.i-intro.co.uk  With your Host Benjamin Mena with Select Source Solutions: http://www.selectsourcesolutions.com/ Benjamin Mena LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminmena/ Benjamin Mena Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benlmena/ Benjamin Mena TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@benjaminlmena

Optimizing Your Desk For Success with Chris Wessell Signup for future emails from The Elite Recruiter Podcast: https://eliterecruiterpodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe In this episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast, host Benjamin Mena is joined by special guest Chris Wessell, who shares valuable insights on optimizing your desk for success. As an experienced recruiter, Chris offers practical tips on maintaining productivity and efficiency by leveraging the power of virtual assistants (VAs). Reflecting on their own journey as a recruiter, Chris emphasizes the limitations of traditional team expansion and explores the benefits of using VAs to delegate non-essential tasks. Listeners will discover how employing VAs allows recruiters to focus on critical responsibilities, such as fostering connections with candidates and clients. Drawing inspiration from their early days as a newspaper delivery person, Chris recounts their innovative approach of delegating work to their sister and enlisting their younger brother in assembly tasks. Their emphasis on adapting and evolving strategies sets the stage for a compelling discussion on modern recruiting techniques. Throughout the episode, Chris shares personal insights gained from managing finances wisely and the importance of constantly upgrading skills. They highlight the role of VAs in scaling oneself and provide practical examples of tasks that can be outsourced, including research, sourcing, and database cleanup. Clear task definition and maintaining control over essential interactions are discussed. Chris addresses the challenges of outsourcing providers and encourages listeners to build and train their own virtual assistant team. They caution against relying on offshore VAs and provide guidance on selecting a reputable company with a structured team and accountability. This episode offers a wealth of actionable advice for recruiters and individuals seeking efficient ways to handle their workloads. Chris invites listeners to connect through LinkedIn for further insights on utilizing virtual assistants effectively. Tune in to The Elite Recruiter Podcast to discover how optimizing your desk can lead to success in recruiting and beyond. Signup for future emails from The Elite Recruiter Podcast: https://eliterecruiterpodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe  YouTube: https://youtu.be/uC4gOu3YYbY Chris Wessell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriswessell/ People Wise: https://peoplewise-llc.com/ Preparo Vas: https://www.preparo.com/ With your Host Benjamin Mena with Select Source Solutions: http://www.selectsourcesolutions.com/ Benjamin Mena LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminmena/ Benjamin Mena Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benlmena/ Benjamin Mena TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@benjaminlmena