Let’s be honest—recruitment’s been transactional for too long. Susan LaMotte, founder and CEO of exaqueo, came through to call that out and drop some truth bombs about how hiring actually works when it works. Forget automation overload and resume graveyards—this one’s about building trust, reading the room, and doing it better.

In this episode we dig into the human side of recruitment and how employer branding isn’t just a buzzword—it’s your business card. Susan breaks down why relationships matter more than ever, how AI fits without replacing empathy, and why career sites need to stop sucking. If your hiring feels broken, this convo might just fix your head.

Key Takeaways:

  • exaqueo flips the script by making relationships the strategy

  • Consulting that doesn’t build trust falls flat

  • Career sites should serve candidates not just market jobs

  • Resumes still matter but need the right context

  • Recruitment works best when it’s treated like a relationship

  • AI should support human connection not replace it

  • Understanding your candidate audience is non-negotiable

  • Great recruiters lead with empathy not transactions

  • Tech should power strategy not become the strategy

  • Industry insights are critical to staying ahead in hiring

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to exaqueo and Employer Branding

02:51 – Consulting Dynamics and Building Trust

05:59 – The Evolution of Career Sites and Candidate Experience

09:02 – Resumes: Relevance in a Digital Age

11:46 – The Importance of Relationships in Recruitment

15:02 – AI's Impact on Recruitment Strategies

17:57 – Industry Insights and Future Directions

This limited series was recorded live at the ERE Recruiting Innovation Summit from the Chatterworks booth on the expo floor. We sat down with 20 Recruiting and TA leaders from around the world to hear what today’s best recruiters are doing to stay sharp, stay relevant, and stay ahead. Powered by Chatterworks, the platform that helps recruiters transform the way they connect with top talent.

Learn more about Chatterworks here: https://chatterworks.com/

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