This blog post reflects on WorkTogether Talent Consulting’s 10-year journey, sharing key lessons learned about equitable, human-centered hiring practices, the importance of relationships, lifelong learning, and building trust, offering actionable advice to both employers and job seekers navigating the ever-evolving talent landscape.
Over the past decade, we’ve had the privilege of connecting incredible people with impactful opportunities, navigating the ever-evolving hiring landscape, and learning more than we ever expected. Below are our top ten lessons!
Whether you’re an employer or a job seeker, these insights are for you. And yes, there’s a sprinkle of humor in here—because if we’ve learned anything, it’s that you need to laugh (or cry, but laughing is better) in the world of hiring.
1. Resumes Aren’t Dead (But Headshots Don’t Belong on Them)
Let’s clear this up: resumes are still very much alive. Sure, LinkedIn has made the process more digital, but the classic resume remains a staple. That said, please—please—leave your headshot and home address off it. Focus on results and clarity, and keep it concise.
2. Keep It Short and Sweet: The Two-Page Rule
We’ve seen resumes longer than War and Peace, and guess what? They don’t get read. One to two pages is plenty. You can be concise and impactful. Remember, your resume is a highlight reel, not a detailed report. Employers, take note too: judging a resume by its length is like judging a book by its number of chapters—focus on the content.
3. Relationships Are Everything
Whether you’re a job seeker looking for your next big role or an employer hunting for top talent, relationships are at the core of success. The colleague you met five years ago at a conference might be your next reference, mentor, or even your hiring manager. Moral of the story? Build relationships and stay in touch. A simple LinkedIn message, a virtual coffee chat once a quarter, a personalized email update when a big change happens- they all work wonders.
4. Lifelong Learning Is Non-Negotiable
Work and technology are changing faster than you can say “ChatGPT.” (See what we did there?) Whether you’re navigating AI tools, tackling remote work challenges, or exploring new fields, the only constant is change. Keep evolving. Employers, make professional development a priority. Job seekers, invest in learning—even if it’s just listening to industry podcasts on your commute.
5. Check Your Biases (Seriously)
Hiring isn’t just about finding the “best” person; it’s about creating opportunities for everyone. Bias—whether conscious or unconscious—has no place in this process. Employers, this means committing to equitable hiring practices. Job seekers, advocate for yourselves and be mindful of biases you might face. We’ve come a long way, but we still have work to do.
6. Develop Your Niche and Brand
Here’s the thing: generalists are great, but specialists get hired. Define your niche, build your brand, and make it clear what problems you solve. For job seekers, this means articulating your unique value. For employers, it’s about finding those candidates with the skillsets you need. (Oh, and update your LinkedIn. We’re begging you.)
7. Treat Everyone With Integrity
The social impact space is small, well-connected and highly engaged. Ensure that you’re treating everyone you engage with- the EA scheduling an interview, the consultant coming in for a day of professional development, your team’s long tenured project manager with respect and integrity. It’s not just the right thing to do; it’s also smart. People remember kindness.
8. Hiring Is Human—So Humanize It
Hiring is about more than filling roles; it’s about building trust and building teams. Employers, be intentional and transparent with your candidates. Job seekers, approach interviews as conversations and get your questions answered, too. At the end of the day, everyone just wants to feel valued and respected.
9. Don’t Ghost. Ever.
Listen, ghosting is bad for dating, and it’s even worse in hiring. Employers, follow up with candidates—even if it’s a “no.” Job seekers, same goes for you. If you’re no longer pursuing an opportunity, let the employer know. Communication keeps relationships intact and reputations strong.
10. Equity Is a Must
If there’s one thing we’ve learned in 10 years, it’s that pursuing equity must be the driver behind every decision. Employers, this means equitable processes from start to finish: transparent salary ranges, diverse interview panels, feasible asks of candidates. Job seekers, solidify what equity means to you, and what it looks like in your professional life and find organizations aligned with that definition.
Looking Ahead
We’re grateful for the people, partners, and opportunities that have shaped our journey. These lessons aren’t just what we’ve learned—they’re what guide us every day. Here’s to the next decade of connecting talent with purpose, championing equity, and making hiring a little more human. Let’s continue to Work…Together.
Want to learn more about our work? Check out this case study with one of our employer partners, JGP, here.
