Ep 38: The Applicant Doesn’t Fall Far From The Tree

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Guest Bio

Steve will be the first to tell you that recruiting is marketing. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Finance at Brigham Young University and started his career in recruiting in Feb 2005.

In 2008, he took a risk during a recession to help start a new company with Ryan Kohler, called ApplicantPro, a full suite HR platform for small to mid-sized businesses. With 11,000 clients and close to 300 employees, ApplicantPro has made the Inc 5000 list 11 years in a row, Top Places to work in Utah 3 years in a row, and Steve was named the Small Business Utah HR Achievement Award winner in May 2024. ApplicantPro was also named an Indeed Platinum Partner in 2023 & 2024.

Steve is SHRM-CP and PHR certified, and currently volunteers on the Utah SHRM State Council as the immediate past State Executive Director. His book, The Hiring Tree: Laws of Applicant Attraction, was released in early 2023, and has helped thousands of organizations across the country rethink the way they approach hiring. If you need help understanding the principles and role of SEO, marketing, and AI when it comes to attracting job seekers, Steve provides a solid framework for hiring effectively.

Follow Steven J. Smith s on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hiringexpertsteve

Episode Highlights

Known for his engaging storytelling and practical advice, Steven J. Smith, shares his unique perspective on the world of recruitment.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Smith's approach is his "Hiring Tree" analogy. He likens the hiring process to a tree, where the roots represent the leaders and employees of the organization, the trunk symbolizes the application process and your job ads, and the branches signify various recruitment channels, such as social media, the company’s website and even SEO. By nurturing this metaphorical tree, organizations can attract and retain top talent.

Steven also delved into the growing issue of ghosting in the hiring process. He emphasized the importance of creating a positive candidate experience at every stage, from initial application to onboarding. By treating candidates with respect and keeping them informed, organizations can reduce ghosting and build a strong employer brand.

As technology continues to evolve, so does the world of recruiting. AI has the potential to streamline the hiring process and improve decision-making. However, as Steven said, "Human intelligence will always be king. AI is a tool, not a replacement.”

By building strong relationships, creating a positive candidate experience, and leveraging technology wisely, organizations can navigate the complexities of the modern hiring landscape and achieve long-term success.