LinkedIn's 1st CHRO: Why Learning Velocity Beats AI in 2026 | Steve Cadigan

The world of work isn't just changing; it is being completely redefined. In this episode, we sit down with Steve Cadigan, LinkedIn’s first Chief HR Officer and author of Workquake. Steve shares his expertise on the evolving landscape of work, talent retention, AI integration, and leadership in a rapidly changing world. Discover practical strategies for building resilient teams, embracing mistakes, and preparing for the future of work.Key TopicsThe evolution of work and the impact of AIBuilding a culture of learning and experimentationStrategies for talent retention and recruitmentThe importance of authenticity and vulnerability in leadershipEpisode Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Steve Cadigan and his career01:27 Steve's background and early life in South Africa and Connecticut03:22 How Steve fell in love with HR and his career journey05:17 The value of making mistakes and being human in leadership07:28 Responding to interview questions about failure and mistakes08:32 Building teams that attract top talent without high pay10:21 The importance of a compelling Employee Value Proposition (EVP)13:03 The changing landscape of careers and new industries14:32 The rapid change in the world of work and how to prepare16:27 Understanding workforce turnover and the impact of COVID-1918:37 Advice for new graduates in a challenging job market20:47 The importance of critical thinking and learning velocity22:05 Jobs of the future: learning more than knowing30:02 The creativity and innovation of outsiders in Silicon Valley31:41 The power of giving employees new opportunities to grow36:36 How AI is augmenting talent rather than replacing it37:04 Motivations behind AI job displacement narratives39:20 The cultural challenges of AI adoption and experimentation41:55 The one move to gain an unfair edge in the future of work42:34 Where to connect with Steve and learn more about his workGuest LinksWebsite: https://stevecadigan.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cadigan/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@stevecadiganBook: Workquake: Embracing the Aftershocks of COVID-19 to Create a Better Model of WorkingKeywords: Future of Work, Talent Retention Strategies, AI in HR, Leadership Vulnerability, Career Pivot, Workquake Book, Employee Engagement, Silicon Valley Innovation, Workforce Turnover, Steve Cadigan