WTF Is Up?

A behind-the-scenes look at the state of corporate recruiting and the hiring outlook for new grads and old grads alike!Summary:In this episode of "WTF is Up," Jeremy and Omar chat with William Chichester, a seasoned talent acquisition leader with 20 years of experience across industries from Target to Peloton. William shares insider insights on university recruiting, market trends, and practical strategies for job seekers navigating today’s competitive landscape.Takeaways:AI is disrupting entry-level hiring, but we must separate reality from mythEconomic fluctuations drive hiring. Everything is cyclicalNetworking as career cheat code: Practical tips for career starters to build relationships and stand outSoft skills drive successChapters:00:00 - Introduction to William Chichester: A career in talent acquisition02:07 - Highlights of William’s diverse recruiting career including Target and Peloton04:29 - The importance of attitude and mindset in career progression06:43 - How university recruitment has evolved and the significance of core schools09:03 - Impact of macroeconomic factors versus AI on hiring practices11:13 - Similarities between today’s market and the 2008 financial crisis12:26 - The relevance of college degrees in the current hiring landscape14:28 - The "Silver Tsunami" and demand for blue-collar skills in the future16:42 - Practical advice for students: leveraging university career services and networking18:01 - Building a personal brand and relationship currency for job hunting20:35 - Strategies for introverts to network effectively on LinkedIn22:13 - Developing durable professional skills like resilience and empathy25:12 - The critical role of empathy in talent acquisition and working relationships28:48 - How to succeed in a tight job market with limited opportunities30:52 - William’s personal story of overcoming barriers through networking and grit34:47 - The importance of authentic relationship building over reliance on ATS37:02 - Counterintuitive advice and “career cheat codes” for current students38:57 - Using AI to craft personalized outreach and elevator pitches42:22 - William’s final thoughts on resilience, patience, and taking control of your career44:10 - Connecting with William for further insightsResources & Links:⁠⁠LinkedIn - William Chichester⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast: Bald, Bold, & Hired⁠⁠⁠⁠Book: "Linked"⁠⁠⁠⁠University of Virginia Career Services⁠