The Recruitment Show

Career skills now have a shelf life.After a year of AI-driven hiring freezes, IBM just reversed course and announced a major increase in entry-level hiring — but the roles look nothing like they did even two years ago.In this episode, I break down:- Why IBM is hiring juniors again- How AI has rewritten entry-level jobs- Why technical skills now expire every 2–3 years- Why human skills matter more than ever in 2026The takeaway:If you stop learning, you fall behind. Careers now reward adaptability, curiosity, and human judgment — not static experience.----

What if the person you interviewed on Zoom doesn't actually exist, and that person you've been working with for the last year is an AI avatar?I am joined by Matthew Moynahan (GetReal Labs) and Emmanuelle Saliba (GetReal Labs) to break down the fast-growing threat of deepfake candidates, synthetic identities, and interview fraud, and what it means for hiring in a remote-first world.We cover:- How fake candidates (including nation-state actors) are getting hired into real companies- Why the threat has moved from “hacking networks” to pixel-level deception- The liar's dividend: when real footage gets dismissed as “AI”- Practical steps recruiters can take to reduce risk without breaking candidate experience- The rise of AI influencers and the wider trust crisis online---

AI-driven layoffs are accelerating in 2026. Some companies may have cut too deep.At the same time:- Graduate unemployment is rising- Apprenticeships are increasing- Work-from-home policies are tighteningThe job market rules are shifting.In this episode of Espresso, I break down:- Whether AI layoffs are strategic — or premature- Why some firms may need to rehire roles they automated- What rising graduate unemployment means in the US and UK- The return of apprenticeships and skilled trades- Where the work-from-home debate is actually headingI run a global executive search firm and speak to hiring leaders weekly. This is my front-line view of what's changing in 2026.If you're early in your career, leading teams, or navigating restructuring, this episode is relevant.---

The 2026 job market just accelerated — fast. Over 600,000 jobs have been cut in the last 30 days alone.From UPS cutting 30,000 roles, to Home Depot enforcing a five-day return to office while reducing headcount, to the UK Treasury offering six-figure exit packages, this is no longer just a tech story. Layoffs are spreading across logistics, retail, finance, and the public sector.In this episode of Espresso, I break down what's really happening beneath the headlines — and whether this is a recession, a correction, or a structural reinvention of corporate work in 2026.If you work in a corporate, professional, or knowledge-based role, this episode matters.Why 600,000 jobs disappeared in just 30 daysHow Return-to-Office mandates are quietly being used as a layoff toolWhy UPS is cutting volume to protect margins — and what automation means for back-office rolesWhat the UK Treasury's £100,000 buyouts signal about public-sector efficiencyWhat you can do now to protect and future-proof your careerThis isn't about panic — it's about pattern recognition.The hiring market is changing fast, leverage is shifting back to employers, and adaptability matters more than ever.The takeaway:Don't wait for a layoff. Audit your role, strengthen your human skills, use AI tools intensely, and take control of what you can control in 2026.

This week at Davos, the warning was clear: the AI tsunami is no longer coming — it's here.The IMF says 60% of jobs are now exposed to AI disruption. Amazon has just cut 16,000 corporate roles to “flatten” its organisation. And OpenAI CEO Sam Altman argues we're not losing jobs — we're moving to a higher level of abstraction.In this episode, I break down the three biggest signals from this week that show the Great Flattening of work has begun — and what it actually means for your career in 2026.Why the IMF is calling AI a “tsunami” for the global workforceWhat Amazon's latest layoffs reveal about the end of the manager layerHow Sam Altman's vision of agent-driven work changes what skills matterPractical ways to future-proof your career in the Agentic AgeStory 1: The Davos Reality Check – why 60% of jobs are in the blast zoneStory 2: Amazon's “Project Dawn” – flattening bureaucracy at scaleStory 3: Sam Altman's roadmap – from doing work to directing agentsThe takeaway: How to stay relevant — and employed — as work is rewritten.

Everyone talks about the private jets and parties at Davos — but the real story is in the data.I went through the key reports released at the World Economic Forum so you don't have to, and what's emerging is a very different picture of the job market in 2026.This isn't about hype anymore.It's about flattened management, AI-driven job shifts, and a growing trust crisis inside organisations.In this video, I break down four major signals from Davos 2026 that will directly impact your career, your team, and how companies operate over the next few years.If you're navigating your career, leading a team, or trying to understand where work is actually heading — this is essential context.--Resources Mentioned:WEF / LinkedIn Future of Work Report 2026: ttps://www.weforum.org/stories/2026/01/ai-has-already-added-1-3-million-new-jobs-according-to-linkedin-data/Edelman Trust Barometer 2026:https://www.edelman.com/trust/2026/trust-barometer:Mercer Global Talent Trends:https://www.businessinsider.com/middle-managers-have-more-direct-reports-after-great-flattening-2026-1--

Only 24% of global workers feel confident about their career future, and AI is widening that gap faster than ever. This episode breaks down the real strategies that separate those left behind from those moving ahead: how to stay relevant as AI reshapes hiring, why visibility now outpaces performance, how to network authentically, what recruiters truly seek in 2026 and beyond, and why being better isn't always enough to be chosen. --

McKinsey just revealed they have 25,000 AI agents working alongside humans, while the construction industry faces its biggest labor shortage in history. The job market is splitting in two. In this video, I break down the latest LinkedIn and Business Insider reports to show you exactly where the jobs are going in 2026 and how to position yourself to survive the "Skills Earthquake."--

The 2026 Talent Playbook: Private Equity is sitting on record "dry powder," but the biggest bottleneck isn't the money—it's the people.In this episode of The Recruitment Show, we sit down with Michael Magliochetti, Operating Partner at Riverside Partners and author of Dancing Between the Toes of Elephants. We break down why the "Culture of One" is the #1 killer of founder-led businesses and how to build a team that is "exit-ready."What you'll learn:The Human Diligence Shift: Why 2026 investors care more about your team than your EBITDA.The $500M Bottleneck: How to survive the transition from founder-led to professional-led.Multi-Lingual Leadership: Recruiting the "technical-to-commercial" bridge.Boardroom Secrets: Michael decodes the PE idioms every exec needs to know.---

The job market in January 2026 makes no sense.LinkedIn just published their Jobs on the Rise report showing 25 roles growing faster than anything else in the UK and America. Companies say they're hiring. Candidates are flooding the market. But almost nothing is connecting.In this week's episode, we break down three stories dominating the recruiting conversation right now:→ LinkedIn's data on the fastest-growing roles (and why 29.2% are hybrid despite the RTO push)→ The January hiring paradox: why recruiters are under pressure but candidates feel frozen out→ The "unicorn wishlist" problem killing hiring on both sidesIf you're trying to hire, looking for your next role, or just confused about what's happening in the labor market—this explains it all.--

AI can make you faster and scale your work — but it can't replace your voice. This episode dives into why AI‑written content is easy to spot, how authenticity drives real engagement, where AI is transforming recruiting, and why the human touch still matters more than ever. --

You can't always control what happens — but you can control your response. This episode unpacks a simple four‑box framework showing how the same pressure or challenge can lead to completely different outcomes in careers, leadership, and life. Because your response shapes your result. --

If your career is a marathon, why are you training like it's a sprint? In this episode, we explore how elite performers sustain success — from health and recovery to daily habits, discipline, and long‑term awareness. Because burnout doesn't build legacy — endurance does. --

The real debate isn't remote vs office—it's about what truly drives teams to excel. In this episode, we unpack how ambition clashes with comfort, why clarity beats entitlement, and what trust, ownership, and “batteries included” mindsets mean for leaders who want to build teams that last. --

The rules of success are changing—degrees no longer guarantee it. In this episode, we unpack what really matters now: avoiding the debt trap, finding future-proof skills, and building a career that actually lasts. --

The "Career Ladder" isn't broken. You're just climbing it wrong.For decades, the advice was static: Get the degree, wait your turn, get the promotion. But in 2025, with entry-level roles down 29% and AI compressing the middle management layer, "waiting your turn" is a failed strategy.In this episode, I sit down with Lee Bofkin (Co-Founder & CEO of Global Street Art) to discuss what actually works. When the external system is chaotic, your internal habits are the only thing you can control.We break down why you don't need more years on your CV, but rather the ability to solve problems without a playbook, focus deeply amidst the noise, and unlearn/relearn skills continually.--

In this end of year special, I sit down with Glenn Martin for a raw, no-nonsense download of the last 12 months. We aren't just looking back; we're dissecting the damage and mapping out the only strategy that will work in 2026.----

You lost the job. Your key supporter left. The market changed overnight. What do you do when your conditions for success suddenly vanish? You pivot. It's time to stop clinging to a plan that no longer works. A career pivot, whether forced by a layoff or necessary change, is a massive shock. But your power isn't in resisting it, it's in how you rebuild. Here are three non-negotiable steps to help you move forward.----

Most people don't actually listen.They just wait for their turn to speak.In this episode, we break down why real conversation is becoming a lost skill — and how you can build meaningful, high-impact communication in a world dominated by screens, short attention spans, and constant noise.----

Are you working hard but wondering if you'll last? In this episode, we dive into the 2026 leadership playbook—what actually builds stamina, prevents burnout, and creates longevity in high-pressure careers. Lewis Maleh sits down with Matthew McLoughlin, C-Suite Exec in Asset Management, to discuss real strategies for executive wellness. From Whoop data insights to starting your fitness journey during the busiest seasons of your career, this conversation is packed with actionable advice for leaders and aspiring professionals. What You'll Learn:✅ Why 91% of UK workers report extreme stress levels—and how top executives protect themselves from burnout✅ How to use Whoop and wearable data to optimize recovery, sleep, and cognitive performance✅ Building stamina when your calendar is packed with board meetings and strategic sessions✅ Starting a fitness journey that actually sticks (even if you've failed before)✅ The connection between exercise, nutrition, sleep, and leadership effectiveness✅ Longevity strategies for 2026 and beyond----Show Notes | Connect with Matthew McLoughlin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-mcloughlin-8b5a3ab/----

79% of candidates now research a company's culture — and the people who work there — before they even consider applying.In this episode, Lewis Maleh and Leo Harrison dive deep into why personal branding, online presence, and authentic content are becoming essential for both hiring and career growth.You'll learn:

Global hiring is tougher than ever — and the skills you bring now make or break your chances of landing the right role.Whether you're a student, recent grad, or experienced professional, understanding where the job market is heading (and how education and skills can empower you) is vital to future-proof your career.In this video, Lewis Maleh breaks down key insights from LinkedIn's latest State of the Labor Market report:

Conversation is becoming a lost art.We're surrounded by messages, notifications, and endless screens...but fewer real conversations. The kind where you listen, build on someone's ideas, and create something new together.Lewis Maleh and Lee Bofkin discuss, real connection comes from curiosity, empathy, and presence...skills that can't be automated.----

I'm joined by AI board advisor Henry Platten as we unpack the seismic shifts happening in the job market right now. We're diving into agentic browsers like OpenAI's Atlas and Perplexity's Commet, exploring how they could replace traditional productivity tools, new AI jobs, and the opportunities in the Middle East. Whether you hire, lead, or looking for your next role, this episode will give you the stats, stories, and strategies you need.----Show Notes | Connect with Henry Platten:https://www.linkedin.com/in/henryplatten-ai-board-advisor/

Worried about where your tech career is heading in 2025? In this episode, we break down what's changing in engineering roles, how to pivot into AI, and the skills that will actually set you apart—beyond code.You'll learn:Why the best engineers in 2025 are product-minded communicators, not order-takersHow to use AI to augment your work (not replace you) and what to learn “under the hood”Why portfolio proof is better than promises (ship projects, show impact)Smart ways to transition into AI from non-technical backgroundsWhen to stay for compounding impact (why year two can be your peak) and how to avoid burnoutPractical tactics: internal moves, networking with intent, and closing the skills gapWhether you're entry-level, mid-career, or leading teams, this is a realistic roadmap for thriving in the next wave of tech.------

Even the strongest candidates get rejected for reasons that go beyond skill. In this episode, Lewis breaks down the four red flags that quietly derail great candidates, from weak self-awareness to surface-level preparation and shares how presence, mindset, and professionalism can turn hesitation into an offer.

Networking isn't about selling... it's about connecting.In this episode, I share a real-world guide to building authentic relationships that open doors, create opportunities, and make networking feel natural, not awkward.You'll learn how to:- Shift your mindset from selling to connecting- Build two “networking buckets” to grow your community intentionally- Make genuine connections both online and offline- Use curiosity and authenticity to turn conversations into opportunitiesYou'll also hear insights from Imran Qureshi, President of Willis Towers Watson, on how curiosity and storytelling can transform the way you connect with people.Whether you're growing your business, changing jobs, or expanding your professional circle, this video will help you build relationships that actually last.

Have you changed jobs several times and worry recruiters might see it as a red flag?In this episode, I unpack the stigma around job hopping and what it really means in today's job market.We'll explore both sides of the story — from the candidate's perspective (life's too short for toxic workplaces) to the hiring manager's mindset (balancing consistency and curiosity).You'll learn:- Why recruiters often misjudge frequent job moves- How to explain your career story with honesty and confidence- What hiring managers should do instead of dismissing job hoppers- Why modern careers look different — and that's okayAfter years in executive search, I've seen how great talent often hides behind unconventional career paths. This video will help both candidates and employers think differently about what makes a strong career story.

Networking isn't just collecting contacts...it's about sharing stories, finding common ground, and building relationships that truly matter. The real magic happens when you're curious about others, open about your own experiences, and ready to engage both online and offline.What you'll learn:- The modern-day cocktail party: How networking has evolved for everyone. - A step-by-step guide to making genuine connections in any setting.- The power of storytelling and authenticity and why it unlocks real opportunities.Looking to build more meaningful connections? Start by listening, showing empathy, and sharing your story. Strong networks grow one real conversation at a time.

Networking isn't about selling — it's about connecting. In this mini masterclass, I share how to build authentic relationships, overcome fear, and grow your network with purpose.What you'll learn:- The Core of Networking: Making Friends- Overcoming Barriers and Finding Your Confidence- A Step-by-Step Guide to Growing Your Network- The Power of Storytelling

Are you tired of the endless cycle of hiring and firing, only to find yourself back at square one? This video reveals a better way to hire, focusing on strategies that ensure you bring in the right talent every time. We'll explore the true cost of a bad hire, the importance of effective onboarding, and when it's time to make tough decisions.What you'll learn:- The Reality of Hiring the Wrong Person- Onboarding and Nurturing a New Hire- When to Cut Your Losses

Are you stuck in a toxic work environment and dreaming of a way out? This video is your guide to breaking free and taking control of your career. We'll tackle the reality of toxic workplaces, empower you to take proactive action, and help you overcome the fear of "job hopping."

Are you tired of applying for jobs and never hearing back? Many of the best opportunities aren't advertised – they're in the "hidden job market." In this video, we reveal the secrets to uncovering these elusive roles and landing your dream job.What you'll learn:- Why You Didn't Get the Phone Call- Your Network is Your Net Worth- Build a Powerful Personal Brand- Optimize Your Digital Resume

Are you feeling LOST in your career and need to get back on track? This video reveals how to find the work you were truly meant to do! Learn to treat your career as a business, implement effective goal-setting techniques, and establish a crucial personal board of directors to guide your journey. Don't stay stuck – take action today!----

WARNING: Before you sign that job offer! In this video I break down the critical warning signs to look for, from unclear job expectations to lowball offers and toxic work culture, ensuring you make the best career decision.----

Are you looking for a new job and wondering how to get recruiters to notice you on LinkedIn? In this video I'll share the secrets to get more messages and replies from recruiters! Learn how to optimize your profile, be visible and proactive, and discover the three crucial things to avoid that could be hindering your job search.----

Ready for a career change but don't know where to start? In this video I provide a clear roadmap. I'll guide you through understanding career transitions, give you actionable steps to make the move, and explain how recruiters can be your biggest asset. It's time to change your future!----

Here's how you can find your footing in a world of AI, Layoffs, and Rising Costs. Jason Chuei from Tokyo and Lewis Maleh from London explore the housing crisis in Japan, discussing how rising property costs are making home ownership a distant dream for many young people. They also look at the situation in the UK, where government policies and economic pressures are causing companies to cut back on hiring. And tackle the topic on everyone's mind: AI. Are AI-driven layoffs shrinking the job market for recent graduates, or is this the dawn of a new era of productivity and innovation? ----

In this episode, I had a fascinating conversation with tech leader Meri Williams (CTO at Pleo) to get a sense check on the current state of AI. We started by unpacking a startling trend, "why design skills are now appearing in more AI job postings than coding?". Meri explains why foundational coding skills are more critical than ever and we explore the hype and reality of LLMs.We also discuss AI's threat to information credibility and why uniquely human skills like communication and critical thinking are becoming the most valuable assets for building a sustainable, long term career in tech.---Show Notes | Connect with Meri Williams: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meriwilliams---

The playbook for using these tools to hire the best talent.In this episode I'm joined by Leo Harrison CE0 at Chapter 2. We discuss how social media is reshaping talent acquisition, why your recruitment strategy needs to mirror sales, and the unexpected power of employee voices online. Discover practical tips for:

What would drive a top executive to leave leadership roles at Amazon and Meta to join a boutique recruitment firm?In this episode, I sit down with Jason Chuei, who recently made that bold career pivot. We explore what it truly takes to reinvent yourself, adapt to a rapidly changing world of work, and lead with purpose in the age of AI.Drawing on his global experience, Jason shares candid lessons on career transformation, the future of hiring, and why human connection matters more than ever, regardless of your industry or ambition.If you're navigating change, considering a bold career move, or want to understand how technology and geopolitics are reshaping work and leadership, this conversation is for you.--------

In the episode of the podcast I'm joined by the brilliant Leanne Maskell (Author X5 and Founder at ADHD Works) to talk about everything from unlocking your unique brain to building a fairer hiring process. We kick off by discussing how understanding different thinking styles can be a career superpower. Leanne shares a fantastic first step for anyone wanting to leverage their unique cognitive strengths at work.A key takeaway for me was our discussion on hiring. Where do traditional processes fall short? And what's one impactful change you can make to not filter out amazing candidates? Some real gems in this section for all hiring managers.---Show Notes | Connect with Leanne Maskell:https://www.linkedin.com/in/leannemaskell---

In this episode of the podcast, I sit down with Sara Daw (CEO at The Liberti Group) to discuss the MUST HAVE skills to be a successful leader. Sara argues that the C-suite model, largely unchanged since the 1980s, is no longer fit for purpose. We delve into the world of fractional leadership, how evolving talent expectations are reshaping effective leadership, and why power and decision making need to shift for organisations to truly thrive. This is a must listen for senior executives and aspiring leaders ready to navigate and shape the future.----Show Notes | Connect with Sara Daw: https://www.saradaw.com----

I'm joined by Lord Mark Price, Founder of WorkL, whose career has spanned the heights of retail leadership as the former Managing Director of Waitrose and Deputy Chairman of the John Lewis Partnership, to the heart of British politics. He was appointed UK Minister of State for Trade and Investment by David Cameron 8 days before the Brexit referendum was announced.We discuss the current state of play, principles that guided him at Waitrose, the experience of entering government at such a charged moment, and his current passion for transforming workplace happiness through his company, WorkL. Tune in to hear Lord Price's invaluable insights on leadership, navigating seismic change, and the future of work.-----Show Notes | Connect with Lord Mark Price: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-price-4348a7127/---

Prioritising mental health in the workplace is more crucial than ever. In this episode I sat down with Zoe Sinclair a leading workplace wellbeing expert and the brilliant mind behind Employees Matter and the This Can Happen conference. We talked about leading with empathy, personal wellbeing, and managing workplace stress.-----Show Notes | Connect with Zoe Sinclair: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zsinclair/----

Feeling stuck in your career? Is it burnout, boreout, or a midlife crisis? David Oxley and Helmut Schuster, HR leaders and authors of "A Groundhog Career," break down the differences in this episode of the podcast. What are your early warning signs? How do you distinguish between needing a vacation and needing a fundamental career shift?--------------Show Notes | Connect with David Oxley and Helmut Schuster:Website: https://www.drsschusterandoxley.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsschusterandoxleLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/drs-schuster-oxleyAmazon: https://amzn.eu/d/9EDsJAA--------------

Fifteen years! When you start a business, you don't think that far ahead, or at least I didn't anyway. Now, standing here at Bentley Lewis's 15th anniversary, it feels like the right moment to reflect and anticipate what's to come. To capture this, I sat down with our amazing CMO, Ameera Qureshi, MCIM. We didn't just discuss the history, we went into the why and the how behind the journey. It was a conversation that touched on the raw experience of setting up and growing a company. The initial vision, the inevitable hurdles, the moments of doubt and the successes. We spoke candidly about leading through turbulent economic times. It's one thing to lead when things are going well, another entirely when navigating recessions, market shifts, and global uncertainty. The lessons learned in those periods are often the most profound, shaping not just the business but also yourself. And, of course, we looked forward. The world of work is transforming at an unprecedented pace. We explored what the 'future of work' truly means for senior executives and aspiring leaders. The skills needed, the structures evolving, and the mindset required to thrive. We also touched upon the broader economic forces at play and how they intersect with the executive search landscape.I hope this episode is a little window into the realities of building a business, leading, and constantly adapting in a dynamic global economy. We talked deeply about the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for all of us in the executive world. If you're navigating your own entrepreneurial path, leading a team through change, or simply curious about the forces shaping the future of leadership and careers, I believe you'll find valuable insights in this conversation. I'd love to hear your thoughts. --------

You landed the interview, you nailed it, and now… the offer. Salary negotiation isn't a battle, it doesn't have to be a difficult conversation either. It should be win-win. In this episode of the podcast I deep dive into specific phrases, strategies, and how to navigate those sometimes awkward conversations. Here are a few things to keep in mind before you even get to the numbers:- Research your market value to understand what you're truly worth. - Companies are open to these conversation. - Discuss salary after you've showcased your value and built rapport. - Consider the entire compensation package, including benefits and perks, not just the base salary. - Know your minimum acceptable offer and be prepared to politely decline if it's not met. Hope you find this useful.--------

Feeling overwhelmed by the rapid advancements in AI? Are you wondering what these new tools mean for your current job and future career prospects? In this insightful episode, I speak with Kamil Stanuch, founder of JobsForAgents, to unpack the current landscape of AI, explore its profound impact on the world of work, and delve into the rise of AI Agents in the workforce. We discuss the practical applications of AI tools, analyse the potential shifts in job roles, and discuss the significant emergence of AI Agents. If you're seeking clarity on how AI will impact your professional future and want actionable insights, this episode is for you.--------------Show Notes | Connect with Kamil Stanuch⁠ :LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kamilstanuch/--------------

In this episode of the podcast I delve deep into the complexities of remote leadership in today's interconnected world, from my experience and conversations with top executives. With a backdrop of global political changes, rapid technological advancements, and evolving societal norms, leaders are facing unprecedented challenges. I coverer the necessity of mastering cross-cultural communication, fostering inclusive team environments, and building strong relationships across diverse backgrounds. I share advice from my own experiences and insights gleaned from conversations with leaders at top global firms. Effective leadership in a global context requires empathy, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning. Listen to the full episode for actionable tips and strategies.--------

NO Flexiblilty. NO WFH. Jamie Dimon, CEO of JPMorgan Chase, delivered a strong town hall recently, doubling down on his stance: full-time office attendance is non-negotiable. Many other CEO's from the worlds leading companies are doing the same. In this episode, I share my take on this. Many leaders argue that in-person work drives collaboration, efficiency, and creativity, but is this approach sustainable in a world where employees increasingly value flexibility? The backlash from employees has been significant, yet a growing number of leaders remain firm, telling employees that the company, not individuals, will decide what works best for business operations. This decision raises big questions: