Art of Search - Hiring Manager Series

Somer Hackley and Zen Mak
  • 5.0 (4)
  • CAREERS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

These are stories and insights about all things hiring.

  1. FEB 4

    Asking Better Questions: Interview Styles That Lead to Smarter Hires

    This week on Art of Search, Somer and Zen break down interview styles that lead to better hiring decisions. They explore open-ended versus specific interview questions, what each reveals about a candidate, and why relying too heavily on one approach can leave gaps. The conversation also highlights the importance of a prepared, consistent interview process to fairly evaluate candidates and make informed decisions. A must-listen for job seekers and executive recruiters alike.

    8 min

  2. JAN 21

    Intentional Hiring in the Age of AI with Priya Reddy

    This week on The Art of Search: Hiring in the Age of AI, we’re joined by Priya Reddy, Founder/CEO of Priya Reddy Consulting, former Chief Data Officer, AI and data investor, board advisor, and adjunct faculty.  Priya walks us through how she thinks about intentional hiring and how that approach has evolved as AI becomes more embedded in how we build teams. Instead of checking boxes, she focuses on what really matters, clear expectations, business outcomes, long-term team fit, and building a strong culture.  We also talk about where AI fits into the process. For Priya, AI is a powerful tool for speed and pattern recognition, but it works best as an assistant, not a replacement for human judgment. It’s the human side of hiring that reveals potential, values, and cultural alignment.  Tune in to hear Priya’s practical insights on designing an intentional hiring process and how getting it right can shape the future trajectory of your team and company.

    21 min

  3. 12/17/2025

    The Go-Giver Advantage: Ha Nguyen on Networking in the Age of AI

    In this episode of Art of Search: Hiring in the Age of AI, we sit down with Ha Nguyen—Fractional COO, community builder and Founder & Managing Partner of NextStep Advisory & Consulting. Ha Nguyen joins us to explore how, even in an AI-saturated world, success still hinges on showing up for people. She discusses her philosophy of being a “go-giver,” the value of building communities to help bring people together, and what it takes to be memorable in your network. While AI may help surface candidates through keywords and automation, Ha makes the case that real opportunities come from relationships and that anyone can start building theirs with intentional habits around networking.  Ready to transform your network into your greatest career asset? Tune in now—listen on your favorite podcast platform.

    17 min

  4. 12/10/2025

    Building, Learning & Curiosity: Career Strategies from Erynn Petersen

    In this episode, we’re joined by Erynn Petersen, tech leader and CEO of Emme, for a grounded and insightful look at what it takes to thrive in today’s AI-driven hiring landscape. Erynn shares the credentials and qualities she values most in candidates right now, highlighting natural curiosity, a deep connection to customers and their needs, and a practical understanding of AI concepts. Above all, she emphasizes the importance of pacing yourself, the ability to stay strong while everything around us accelerates.  Erynn shifts to the job seeker’s perspective and her top advice for executives? Build something, both to demonstrate your capabilities and to stay close to how the world is evolving. Throughout the episode, she shares compelling success stories and lessons from her own career.  Take a listen to learn how to stand out, stay grounded, and succeed in the age of AI.

    19 min

  5. 10/22/2025

    New Season, New Topic! Hiring in the Age of AI with Nisha Paliwal

    We kick off our new season of Art of Search with a new focus on Hiring in the Age of AI. This season explores how artificial intelligence is transforming the way we hire, build teams, and grow talent. Starting with Nisha Paliwal, who is an entrepreneur, former CTO and seasoned technology leader for top financial institutions for the past 20 years, we dive into how AI is powering smarter hiring, helping shape a mentorship program, and enabling a global approach to talent discovery. A natural connector, Nisha shares how she’s now using AI to amplify her mission of matching people, mentors, mentees, and talent, with purpose. Her message? In the era of AI, the best skill you can have is the ability to learn, unlearn, and relearn. Get ready to rethink everything you know about hiring.  Listen now on your favorite podcast platform and subscribe for more conversations at the intersection of AI and the future of hiring.

    16 min

  6. 09/04/2025

    How to Hire for a Unique Role

    Titles are different from company to company so when you're handed a job that doesn't exist anywhere else, where do you start? In this episode, Somer asks Zen how she approaches these unique hiring challenges. Zen shares how it all begins with asking the right questions, clarifying the business need, and uncovering what the role really is. Tune in to learn how to approach roles that are unique to a company’s journey.

    8 min

  7. 07/24/2025

    Real Conversations, Better Hires: The Power of Honest Interviewing

    In this episode of Art of Search – Hiring Manager Series, Somer and Zen share how to create a more effective interview experience. They break down what it takes to strike the right balance between vetting candidates and selling the role while clearly communicating its vision. Tune in to learn the key tactics great hiring managers use to drive better outcomes.

    9 min

  8. 07/17/2025

    Metrics that Matter in Executive Search

    In this episode of Art of Search: Hiring Manager Series, Somer and Zen unpack the role of metrics in executive search, highlighting both the pros and cons. They explain how each stage, from outreach to offer, tells a story, but it's thoughtful interview feedback that often unlocks the most successful and productive searches. Check out the full episode to learn more!

    12 min
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These are stories and insights about all things hiring.

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