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Ghosted by the Machine

Ghosted by the Machine

By: WRKdefined Podcast Network
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 Ghosted by the Machine exposes the real stories behind today’s broken hiring system. Host Mark Lane gives job seekers a voice after the bots go silent. Five minutes. Five questions. Real humans. Real stories.All rights reserved by WRKdefined Career Success Economics Marketing Marketing & Sales
Episodes
  • The Future of Hiring: Insights from Katrina Kibben

    The Future of Hiring: Insights from Katrina Kibben
    Apr 30 2026
    This episode explains why modern hiring processes often fail both candidates and recruiters and how better communication can improve outcomes. You will learn how AI and applicant tracking systems are exposing outdated recruiting practices, why job descriptions play a critical role in attracting the right talent, and how speed-driven hiring can reduce quality. The conversation also explores how organizations can reduce ghosting, improve transparency, and build stronger relationships with candidates over time. Key takeaways AI is exposing inefficiencies in hiring processes Speed often takes priority over quality in recruiting High application volume creates screening challenges Job descriptions are critical to attracting the right candidates Many candidates feel lost in applicant tracking systems Lack of communication leads to frustration and disengagement Recruiting is not just marketing, clarity matters more Candidate databases can improve long term hiring success Overqualification is often misunderstood in hiring decisions Respect and transparency improve candidate experience Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to modern hiring challenges 00:30 What recruiters are doing right 00:51 Speed versus quality in hiring 02:07 Why candidates disappear in the process 03:28 Managing high application volume 04:12 Loss of human interaction in hiring 06:35 Why job descriptions matter 09:57 The impact of ghosting on candidates 12:16 Building trust with applicants 16:37 Addressing ageism and experience bias Keywords hiring process candidate experience AI in recruiting job descriptions recruiting communication ATS systems talent acquisition job search hiring strategy recruitment challenges Connect with Katrina - linkedin.com/in/katrinakibben
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    17 mins
  • Stand Out in Hiring: James Ellis

    Stand Out in Hiring: James Ellis
    Apr 30 2026
    This episode explains why many companies struggle to attract strong candidates even when they invest in recruiting and employer branding. You will learn the difference between looking attractive as an employer and becoming truly choosable to job seekers. The conversation explores how AI-generated messaging is making companies sound the same, why authentic employee stories build trust, and how organizations can stand out with clear, credible differentiation. It also covers how candidates can become more memorable and avoid getting lost in applicant tracking systems. Key takeaways Most employer branding sounds generic and forgettable Companies need to be choosable, not just attractive AI tools can amplify bland corporate messaging Real employee stories build stronger trust than slogans Clear proof points matter more than vague values statements Paid ads can attract applicants but not true loyalty Candidates must differentiate themselves beyond qualifications Strong headlines and positioning improve candidate visibility Ghosting is often a cultural problem, not only a tech problem Human centered hiring starts with authenticity and communication Timestamps 00:00 Breaking through hiring algorithms 00:26 Employer branding versus choosable companies 01:13 How AI amplifies sameness 03:11 Employee stories shape reputation 05:37 The danger of employer bland culture 14:32 Buying applicants with paid ads 18:29 Positioning yourself as the ideal fit 30:44 Hiring problems go deeper than AI 39:26 How to become unghostable 45:02 Addressing bias in hiring Keywords employer branding talent acquisition hiring strategy candidate experience AI in recruiting job search ATS tips company culture recruitment marketing hiring communication Connect with James: EmployerBrandLabs.com
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    50 mins
  • Self Leadership for Job Seekers

    Self Leadership for Job Seekers
    Apr 28 2026
    This episode explains how mindset and self-leadership can transform the job search process. You will learn how internal dialogue shapes confidence, emotions, and actions during rejection, why clear vision helps maintain momentum, and how limiting beliefs can hold candidates back. The conversation also explores practical ways to build authentic relationships, stay connected to purpose, and regain control in a hiring system that often feels frustrating. Key takeawaysInternal dialogue strongly affects job search confidenceBeliefs influence emotional reactions to rejectionSelf-leadership creates consistency during uncertaintyClear vision helps maintain motivation and focusIdentity should not depend only on employment statusLimiting beliefs can block progress and opportunityAuthentic relationships matter more than automation alonePurpose can guide decisions during setbacksMindset shifts can improve resilience and momentumOwnership creates stronger long-term career growth Timestamps00:46 Career journey from design to coaching01:01 Understanding what drives behavior03:23 The power of internal dialogue05:35 How beliefs shape emotions07:06 Protecting identity during job search09:34 Challenging limiting beliefs12:04 Why clarity creates momentum13:03 Building real relationships14:41 Coaching offer for listeners Keywordsjob search mindsetself leadershipcareer resilienceconfidence building job seeker advicepersonal growthnetworkingmotivationcareer coachingmindset strategies Connect with DJ - linkedin.com/in/djhurula Website xyztbd.com
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    15 mins
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