Up Next @ WorkTech: Reverse Recruiting, Risky Agents, and the Rise of AI Native HR Tech

A fast-moving conversation on AI‑driven promotions, frontline automation, agent security risks, reverse recruiting, and the funding wave reshaping HR Tech in 2026. In this episode, George and Kate unpack how AI is reshaping work—from Accenture tying promotions to AI usage (“use of our key tools will be a visible input to talent discussions.”) to Burger King’s voice agent Patty tracking upsells and friendliness scores. They explore Google’s internal AI push, the security risks of OpenClaw (“30,000 compromised installations”), and the rise of “AI native” as 2026’s dominant narrative. The conversation closes with reverse recruiting, new funding rounds, and emerging HR Tech trends. In this episode, George and Kate look at AI adoption, HR technology, agentic AI, workforce automation, recruiting technology, future of work trends, HR Tech funding. Key Takeaways: AI‑Driven Performance Management: Accenture’s plan to tie promotions to AI usage raises questions about leadership, culture, and the future of performance metrics. Frontline Automation Expands: Burger King’s “Patty” agent shows how voice‑based AI is entering hourly work, tracking upsells, sentiment, and shift performance. AI Ethics & Internal Adoption: Google’s internal AI mandates highlight ongoing tensions between innovation, employee trust, and past AI ethics controversies. Agent Security Risks Grow: OpenClaw’s rapid adoption led to “30,000 compromised installations,” exposing how vulnerable agent ecosystems and marketplaces remain. Reverse Recruiting Surges: Candidates paying for job‑hunting help reveals market vulnerability and the rise of predatory AI‑driven services. HR Tech Funding Accelerates: New capital flows to AI native platforms, cognitive assessments, integrations, and hyper‑local job boards signal where Work Tech innovation is heading. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices