Tell us your career path before you were in TA
I've had a bit of a strange path as before I fell into the wonderful world of TA, I was a radio producer for BBC 6 Music! I was there for about 6 years and was lucky enough to also work across some of the programming for the sister station Radio 2, as well. My first pivot once I left was to then go into TV promos at Red Bee before landing at The Talent Business where I started my TA career.
From your personal experience what's the best thing about being in talent acquisition?
I really love the impact you can have on the business and on people's lives. It's such an exciting synergy to be able to connect the two in a way that is really meaningful for both sides. TA is also so broad and so human. It's not just about putting bums on seats, it's about building long term value for everyone.
Since you've been in TA, how have you seen it change?
It's changed A LOT and it's still evolving! The biggest change is businesses moving away from being purely reactive and transactional, to being more emotionally connected, strategic and proactive. Everything from platforms, sourcing, EDI, applying, networking, interviewing...they've all grown too and it just keeps getting better and better.
How do you see AI impacting the future of talent acquisition?
Automation (whilst not the same as AI) is something we've seen make an impact for a while now, but AI itself is proving to be really a massive gamechanger with some of the more real heavy lifting administrative stuff. AI note takers are incredible, as well as the programs that can spot and reduce bias in job specs, and assist with CV ranking. Beyond the process and efficiency piece, we're really starting to see how AI can help with predictive data around candidate success, forecasting etc. It'll be a huge support for TA teams, but nothing more. It shouldn't / wouldn't replace recruiters, but they'll work in tandem.
What advice would you give to job seekers today?
Do your research about the role AND the company! Seriously, not enough people do this. Be honest to yourself and the TA person you're dealing with; if you're not truly aligned with the role or the company's mission and values, it's absolutely fine to say so. Ask questions! Turn up prepared. The interview process is a two-way street; there is space for you to learn as much about us as we want to learn from you. Don't be afraid to proactively network; reach out to hiring managers / connections / TA folks. Even if we don't have a perfect fit for you right now, things can change! Build relationships with TA so the connection is there for when the timing is right.
Charlotte Guzzan, Global Talent Acquisition Manager at LoopMe