Recruiter Secrets: Forget the Algorithm, Here's How People Actually Get Hired

Host Jane Khodos Beyer sits down with Chaz Cirame, founder of Big Fish Recruiting, who specializes in placing top talent in public affairs, public policy, and communications. Chaz shares why LinkedIn applications are basically a black hole, why a handwritten thank-you note is still the ultimate power move, and how AI-generated cover letters are backfiring on candidates in ways they don't expect.You'll also hear:Why networking beats cold applying every single time (the real numbers will surprise you)How to negotiate an offer without pricing yourself outWhat employers are doing wrong — and how it's costing them great hiresWhy experience almost always trumps a graduate degreeThe career pivot framework Chaz used himself to leave public affairs and build Big Fish from scratchPlus book recommendations you'll want to write down: Designing Your Life, Aware, and How to Win Friends and Influence People.Chaz also shares his favorite spots in Old Town Alexandria — from Bollywood Masala to St. Elmo's Coffee — in our lightning round.00:00 AI Job Search Mistakes00:15 Meet Chaz Cirame01:24 How We Met02:18 Career Pivot Story04:27 Designing Your Life07:15 Hiring Market Reality09:01 Standing Out in Interviews11:13 Candidate Interview Donts13:32 Networking Beats Applying16:12 Using LinkedIn Wisely18:53 AI Cover Letter Pitfalls20:07 AI Resume Pitfalls21:26 Beating ATS Bots22:36 Employer Hiring Mistakes25:45 Offer Negotiation Reality32:03 What Drives Top Pay33:44 MBA Versus Experience37:23 Job Search Timelines38:35 Networking And Books40:20 Old Town Lightning Round41:34 Wrap Up And ContactChaz’ favorite places around Old Town:St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub: 529 Montgomery St | stelmoscoffeepub.com | IG: @stelmosSouthside 815: 815 S Washington St | southside815.com | IG: @southside815Bollywood Masala: 219 King St | bollywoodmasalaalexandria.com | IG: @bollywoodalexandriaFurther Reading RecommendationsCirame recommends two pivotal books on career design and self-awareness: "Designing Your Life" by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans, and,"Aware" by Les Csorba. The People You Meet in Old Town AlexandriaThe People You Meet in Old Town Alexandria is a podcast that explores the people, places, and ideas that shape the historic district. Hosted by Jane Khodos Beyer, the show features wide-ranging discussions with local leaders and experts who bring practical ideas on how to preserve our heritage and build a vibrant community.© 2026 The People You Meet in Old Town Alexandria. All rights reserved.