Hiring Tech Talent with Lauren Waters, Xero

During the Great Resignation, many recruiters are looking for refreshing ways to find new talent. In technology, a field that requires candidates of such particular and refined expertise, the challenge is even more nuanced. 

Our guest today is Lauren Waters, Talent Experience Manager, Americas at  Xero, accounting software that provides tools for small businesses, accountants, and bookkeepers. 

Lauren understands the process of trying to land a job in the tech industry and has first-hand experience of what sticks and what doesn’t. 

Questions For Lauren Include: 

• How has the growth of the Gig Economy and more need for accounting software for start-ups over the past couple of years impacted Xero? 
• What are some of the unique challenges TA pros when attempting to hire folks into tech companies and when trying to fill tech roles? 
• Why is it vital for a candidate to be truthful during the hiring process? What can happen if the candidate misleads a hiring manager/TA pro? 
• Why do you believe it's so vital that candidates demonstrate they care about culture fit and the DEI efforts of a potential employer's brand? What does that say about their motivations and likeness to stay with an org for the longer term? 
• Mastering the art of phone impressions - Your team stresses the importance of bringing on your energy and enthusiasm when interviewing or networking over the phone. As the interviewer is not able to see a candidate's body language over the phone, it is vital to approach the call with vigor – within reason. It’s also important to balance between being excited and not seeming too desperate. Tell me more.
• Debunk the “fake it til’ you make it” mantra – most of the time people think they need to have an answer to every question thrown at them. Why is it okay to say “I do not know”!

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