EP #36 Building Teams with Purpose with Kirstin Purcell

Tired of sifting through piles of unqualified resumes? Meet Kirstin Purcell, founder of Handshake in Heels, who's revolutionizing how businesses approach talent acquisition in Fredericksburg and beyond.Kirstin joins the Fredericksburg Neighbors Podcast to shatter the biggest myth in recruiting: that posting a job online is enough to attract quality candidates. "The best candidates aren't actively looking—they're being pursued," she explains, highlighting why strategic recruiting requires much more than a well-written job advertisement. As a talent consultant rather than just a recruiter, Kirstin helps businesses build teams that align with their mission, culture, and long-term vision.Her journey into specialized recruiting came after an unexpected layoff from her corporate position—a challenge that became the catalyst for fully committing to Handshake in Heels. This modern recruiting and consulting firm focuses on removing the guesswork from hiring through a blend of strategy, industry insights, and genuine human connection. For Kirstin, it's about building partnerships rather than transactions, guiding companies through everything from crafting compelling job descriptions to aligning their talent strategy with business objectives.What strikes you most in this conversation is Kirstin's practical wisdom for anyone facing career transitions or considering entrepreneurship: "Start before you feel ready. Perfection is a myth, and waiting for it only delays your growth." Her advice to take "messy action" reminds us that building anything meaningful—whether a business or a team—is a journey of continuous learning rather than a race to perfection.Want to elevate your company's hiring approach or build a team that truly fits your organization's culture? Connect with Kirstin through her website at www.handshakeinheels.com or find her on Facebook and LinkedIn to discover how strategic recruiting can transform your business.Kirstin PurcellHandshake in [email protected]