"What the F does a recruiter actually do?" - We can tell you!

For our 50th episode of the Open To Work Podcast, we’re doing something special.I’m joined by my wife — Mrs. Parker — for an honest conversation about what it’s really like to support someone through a job search.From the moment I was made redundant, through the highs, lows, and uncertainty, to finally landing a new role, she was there through it all. This episode shares her side of the story — the emotions, the surprises, and what we both learned along the way.In this episode, we talk about:- What it felt like when I was first made redundant- The toughest moments during the job search (for both of us)- How she supported me, and what she found hardest- The emotional impact of finally landing a new role- Advice for anyone supporting a partner through career uncertaintyWhether you're the one searching or the one supporting, we hope this episode helps you feel less alone.And now check out the How To Get Hired Playbook https://bit.ly/matthewgethiredSign up for our free weekly job search tips in our newsletter - https://opentoworktoolkit.substack.com/Be sure to check out HireGuide's exclusive glossary of interview questions by job type -https://www.hireguide.com/resources/interview-questionsAs ever thank you to our Sponsors:Alderson James https://aldersonjames.com/ Hireguide https://www.hireguide.com/

In this episode of the Open To Work Podcast, career coach and former tech recruiter Farah Sharghi joins us to break down everything you need to know about navigating internal job moves—from preparing for internal interviews to dealing with the politics that often come with making a move inside your own company.If you’re eyeing a promotion, a lateral shift, or just want to grow without leaving your current employer, this episode is packed with practical advice and real talk about what works (and what doesn’t).Topics Covered: • How internal interviews differ from external ones • What hiring managers really look for in internal candidates • How to prepare when you’re already “known” inside the company • Managing internal reputation and handling tricky manager dynamics • How to advocate for yourself without stepping on toesWhether you’re ready to level up or just want to be ready when the right opportunity opens up, Farah’s advice will help you move forward with clarity and confidence.Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes on job search strategy, career growth, and hiring insights.Sign up for our free weekly job search tips in our newsletter - https://opentoworktoolkit.substack.com/Be sure to check out HireGuide's exclusive glossary of interview questions by job type -https://www.hireguide.com/resources/i...As ever thank you to our Sponsors:Alderson James https://aldersonjames.com/ Hireguide https://www.hireguide.com/

What actually happens during a background check? What can make or break a reference call? And could your social media presence soon be part of the process? Hamraj shares his legal insight and practical advice to help job seekers understand what’s being checked, why it matters, and how to prepare.🔍 Topics Covered:The difference between background checks and reference checksWhat employers are really looking forHow background checks are evolving with remote work and AIWhether social media screening is becoming standard practiceHow candidates can prepare—and what to fix before it’s flaggedWhether you're job hunting or just curious about what’s happening behind the scenes after you hit “apply,” this episode will give you clarity, context, and peace of mind.Thanks as ever to our sponsors Hireguide https://www.hireguide.com/ and Alderson James https://aldersonjames.com/👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes on job search strategy, hiring insights, and career growth.

How do you become AI-ready in today’s fast-changing job market? In this episode, we speak with Martyn Redstone, founder of genAssess and an expert in AI for recruitment, about how both job seekers and companies can prepare for the future of work.Topics covered: • What does it really mean to be AI-ready? • The key difference between an AI-enabled candidate and an AI-ready employee • Practical AI skills to put on your resume • How companies are integrating AI into hiring and operations • Why AI literacy is becoming a must-have skill across industriesWhether you’re job hunting, hiring, or just trying to stay ahead of the curve, this conversation will give you clear, practical insights into navigating the AI-driven workplace.Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for weekly episodes on job search strategy, hiring trends, and career growth.Sign up for our free weekly job search tips in our newsletter - https://opentoworktoolkit.substack.com/Be sure to check out HireGuide's exclusive glossary of interview questions by job type -https://www.hireguide.com/resources/i...As ever thank you to our Sponsors:Alderson James https://aldersonjames.com/ Hireguide https://www.hireguide.com/

Stop Spamming. Start Connecting! Mike Peditto on Authentic NetworkingIn this week's episode, Matthew is joined by Mike Peditto, content creator, Talent Acquisition Director and job search advisor offering sound advice to those seeking to find the right job. The pair discuss the key topic of networking, focusing on what makes the process authentic and what you can do to improve your network.Sign up for our free weekly job search tips in our newsletter - https://opentoworktoolkit.substack.com/ Be sure to check out HireGuide's exclusive glossary of interview questions by job type - https://www.hireguide.com/resourcesAs ever thank you to our Sponsors: Alderson James https://aldersonjames.com/ Hireguide https://www.hireguide.com/

So, what does a recruiter actually do for candidates to help them find the right role for them?Today, Matthew is joined by none other than Steve Jacobs, fellow recruitment professional, managing director at AJ Exec, who has also worked at many household names including, McDonalds, Wayfair and Troi. The pair discuss how recruiters tackle the day to day influx of candidates, and give their two cents on what candidates can do to approach different types of recruiters and maximise their success when job searching.Sign up for our free weekly job search tips in our newsletter - https://opentoworktoolkit.substack.com/ Be sure to check out HireGuide's exclusive glossary of interview questions by job type - https://www.hireguide.com/resourcesAs ever thank you to our Sponsors: Alderson James https://aldersonjames.com/ Hireguide https://www.hireguide.com/

In this week’s episode, Matthew is joined by CEO of Mews, Matt Welle, as the pair discuss what candidates can do to stand out and excel when applying for roles at top companies. Matt shares his journey at Mews, highlighting key moments and experiences on what has impressed him from candidates he has interviewed, how the company tackles important issues such as diversity, gives advice on what you can do to stay one step ahead whilst job searching. You’ll want the notepad for this one!Sign up for our free weekly job search tips in our newsletter - https://opentoworktoolkit.substack.com/ Be sure to check out HireGuide's exclusive glossary of interview questions by job type - https://www.hireguide.com/resourcesAs ever thank you to our Sponsors: Alderson James https://aldersonjames.com/ Hireguide https://www.hireguide.com/

How to actually use LinkedIn to get your next job!In today's episode, Matthew is joined by Gabi Preston-Phypers, top recruitment consultant who has worked with various big names such as Google Fibre, GSMA, and many more. The two discuss how job sourcing is changing for candidates, and what they can do to improve both their job searching successes, and supporting job sourcing to work with recruiters. Tune in to find out more!Sign up for our free weekly job search tips in our newsletter - https://opentoworktoolkit.substack.com/Be sure to check out HireGuide's exclusive glossary of interview questions by job type -https://www.hireguide.com/resources/interview-questionsAs ever thank you to our Sponsors:Alderson James https://aldersonjames.com/ Hireguide https://www.hireguide.com/

The great diversity debate, and how it impacts you as a job seeker.In this week's episode, Matthew and Aubrey Branche-Sarellano tackle the hot topic of recent weeks, exploring the impact of change in government in the US on diversity and the job seeker landscape. As a VP at Culture Amp, Aubrey is well versed in the difficult conversations surrounding modern work environments, and shares her insight on what can be done to create the best possible environment for both employees and employers alike.Sign up for our free weekly job search tips in our newsletter - https://opentoworktoolkit.substack.com/Be sure to check out HireGuide's exclusive glossary of interview questions by job type -https://www.hireguide.com/resources/interview-questionsAs ever thank you to our Sponsors:Alderson James https://aldersonjames.com/ Hireguide https://www.hireguide.com/

If you only watch one video to find your next job, watch this! In this week's episode, Matthew is joined by Farah Sharghi, who shares her experiences as a technical recruiter at several household names such as Google, Lyft and TikTok. The two share their know-how on how to best prepare for your next job interview, CV horror stories and how to make yourself more employable, both in the eyes of a recruiter and an employer. You won't want to miss this one!Sign up for our free weekly job search tips in our newsletter - https://opentoworktoolkit.substack.com/Be sure to check out HireGuide's exclusive glossary of interview questions by job type -https://www.hireguide.com/resources/interview-questionsAs ever thank you to our Sponsors:Alderson James https://aldersonjames.com/ Hireguide https://www.hireguide.com/