Great recruiting is a mix of strategy, creativity, and inspiration—and these TED Talks have all three in spades.
From redefining hiring to creating inclusive workplaces, they’re a must-watch for every recruiter looking to level up. So, let’s roll!
9 TED talks for recruiters: So good, you can’t hit PAUSE!
1. Gil Winch: How can we use the hiring process to bring out the best in people?
Gil Winch feels that the hiring process needs a serious upgrade.
Forget trying to find “perfect” candidates. What really matters is helping them succeed, especially those who have been left out.
His approach is simple: support people, focus on their strengths, and let them shine.
When you give someone a real chance, they will surprise you in amazing ways.
2. Nithya Vaduganthan: 5 hiring tips every company (and job seeker) should know
Nithya Vaduganathan suggests looking at potential instead of just credentials because eager learners often turn out to be the best fit.
Another critical piece of advice that came from her is streamlining the process.
No one enjoys extended, complicated interviews or an overly lengthy hiring experience. It’s about respecting candidates’ time and making things efficient.
Also, being clear about the role and company culture helps avoid misunderstandings.
And if an applicant doesn’t get the job, offering feedback is key—it’s respectful and helps them improve.
3. Nikky Lyle: Recruiting with conscience when hiring diverse talent
Nikky Lyle offers practical tips for making recruitment more inclusive:
- Be aware of unconscious biases and actively work to minimize their impact during the hiring process. This helps keep things fair at every stage.
- Write job descriptions using inclusive and welcoming language to appeal to a broader range of candidates.
- Prioritize creating a workplace culture where employees from all backgrounds feel valued and supported—not just during hiring but throughout their time with the company.
4. Mike Brady and Dion Drew: Why we hire ‘unemployable’ people
Mike Brady and Dion Drew are breaking the mold at Greyston Bakery, changing lives and redefining hiring.
They don’t need resumes, interviews, or background checks. These recruiters hire overlooked people, like those with employment gaps.
Once shut out by employers because of his past, Drew found a fresh start at Greyston. Now, he’s thriving and showing what’s possible with a second chance.
Mike Brady explains that open hiring doesn’t just transform lives—it builds a loyal, motivated workforce and tackles social challenges directly.
5. Regina Hartley: Why the best hire might not have the perfect resume
Regina Hartley knows the hiring process can feel way too predictable.
She flips the script and makes a case for the “Scrappers,” the candidates with resumes that show grit, hustle, and a story worth telling.
Sure, the “silver spoon” applicants with spotless credentials look great on paper.
But Hartley says the ones who’ve faced challenges often bring strength and determination you can’t teach.
She advises you to bet on the scraper when choosing between a polished resume and one with a few bumps.
They might just turn out to be your most dedicated employees.
6. Chris White: 3 ways to create a work culture that brings out the best in employees
Chris White believes creating a workplace where people can thrive doesn’t have to be complicated.
It starts with building genuine relationships. Trust and connection make collaboration stronger and more natural.
Next, it’s about giving work meaning. When employees understand how their roles contribute to something bigger, they feel more motivated and engaged.
Finally, it’s essential to prioritize growth.
Providing opportunities for learning and development keeps people excited about their work and ready for new challenges.
7. Stefanie Stanislawski: Taking recruitment practices to a new level
Recruitment can adapt to modern challenges, and Stefanie Stanislawski shows how.
She shares practical ways to improve hiring:
- Use technology smartly: Advanced tools like AI can make recruitment faster and more efficient, but only when used thoughtfully.
- Prioritize candidate experience: A good hiring process makes applicants feel respected and valued. This creates a better impression and attracts top talent.
- Balance tech with human connection: Technology can streamline tasks, but empathy and understanding are vital to building meaningful relationships with applicants.
8. Mads Faurholt-Jorgensen: How to master recruiting
Mads Faurholt-Jorgensen lays out a few essential strategies to make hiring better.
He emphasizes treating it as a skill you can refine with focus and practice.
Start by clearly defining the role and knowing exactly what kind of person you’re looking for.
Then, ask thoughtful questions that showcase real potential and ensure candidates truly fit the role.
Assessments are another vital step to check if they align with your team’s culture.
9. Kim Scott and Trier Bryant: How to reduce bias in your workplace
We all face prejudice at work, but Kim Scott and Trier Bryant have a smart way to handle it.
They share a simple three-step plan:
- Speak the same language: Start by creating a shared vocabulary about discrimination. When everyone understands the terms, conversations become smoother and more productive.
- Own your observations: Use “I” statements like, “I noticed this candidate didn’t get much time to speak.” It highlights the issue without making things tense.
- Bias check every meeting: Make it a habit to spot and address unfairness during meetings calmly and constructively.
Preconceived notions won’t disappear overnight, but these steps can help create real change and a better workplace for everyone.
Frequently asked questions
1. How can I implement the insights from these talks in my recruitment process?
Start by identifying key takeaways that resonate with your recruitment challenges.
Experiment with new approaches, measure the results and refine your strategies accordingly.
Collaborate with your team to integrate these insights into your existing processes, fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation.
2. How can I, as a recruiter, become a TED talk speaker?
To become a TED Talk speaker, start by identifying a compelling, original idea that aligns with TED’s mission of spreading ideas worth sharing.
Craft an engaging narrative and practice delivering it with confidence.
Look for local TEDx events to submit your talk proposal, as they often serve as a great entry point.
Building credibility through your work, sharing thought leadership, and connecting with the TED community can increase your chances.
3. Can watching TED talks count towards professional development credits?
Some professional organizations recognize TED talks as part of continuing education.
Check with your specific association to determine eligibility.
Watching TED talks can be a flexible and engaging way to enhance your professional skills, stay inspired, and contribute to your ongoing development in recruiting.
