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Writer's pictureSei Spiers

Finding and Retaining the Right Talent with Richard Triggs

In the 197th episode of "The Leadership Project" podcast, we had the honour of interviewing Richard Triggs, CEO and founder of Arete Executive - Executive Search & Executive Career Coaching, and author of the book, Winning the War for Talent. The depth and breadth of the conversation offer rich insights into the complexities of talent acquisition and the nuances that can make or break a successful hiring strategy.


landscape of work

Introduction to Richard Triggs


Richard Triggs is a distinguished figure in the executive recruitment industry, with over 20 years of experience. He began his professional journey after an initial stint in the music industry, which profoundly influenced his perspectives on teamwork, leadership, and strategic decision-making.



From Rock Star Aspirations to Executive Search


Triggs shared his early life and the transition from dreaming of a rock and roll career to leading a successful executive search firm. He emphasized the importance of teamwork and strategic planning, drawing parallels between managing a band and leading a business. His engaging anecdotes, including how he led his band to win the Queensland Rock Awards and beat the now-famous Powderfinger, are a testament to his diverse experiences and adaptability.



The Art and Science of Talent Acquisition


One of the primary focuses of the conversation was Triggs' approach to talent acquisition, which he details in his book, Winning the War for Talent. Triggs debunks the myth of the "war for talent," arguing that successful hiring isn't about competition but about mastering the skill of recruitment.



Internal vs. External Recruitment


Triggs provides a comprehensive analysis of the pros and cons of internal and external recruitment strategies. He highlights that while internal recruiters understand company culture better, they are often overburdened with numerous roles, leading to potential inefficiencies. On the other hand, external recruiters, especially retained ones like his firm, can provide a more focused and effective approach, particularly for mission-critical roles.



Performance-Based Hiring


A significant portion of the discussion revolved around the methodology of performance-based hiring, which focuses on what success looks like in a role. Triggs stressed the importance of clarity in the hiring process, ensuring that both the employer and the candidate understand the key deliverables and success factors.


He criticized the generic nature of many job advertisements and emphasized the need for specific, actionable details that can attract the right candidates. This approach not only speeds up the hiring process but also significantly improves the quality of hires.



Challenges and Solutions in Current Recruitment Practices


Triggs pointed out common pitfalls in current recruitment practices, such as the lack of timely communication with candidates and the failure to headhunt passive candidates. He argued that many internal recruiters lack the necessary training and resources, leading to suboptimal results.



The Role of Transparency and Communication


Another key takeaway from the conversation was the role of transparency and open communication in the hiring process. Triggs shared real-life examples of how not disclosing critical information, such as a company's imminent sale, can lead to misaligned expectations and dissatisfaction.



Rapid Round Insights


In the rapid round, Triggs shared valuable personal insights:


  • Patience: His advice to his 20-year-old self would be to have patience and not rush through life and career.


  • Favourite Book: Higher with Your Head by Lou Adler, which he recommends for anyone involved in hiring.


  • Favourite Quote: "The truth is the result," emphasizing the importance of actionable outcomes over mere intentions.



Conclusion


Richard's holistic and clear-eyed approach to recruitment offers a blueprint for companies struggling to find and retain the right talent. Whether you are an internal recruiter or a hiring manager, implementing these strategies can transform your recruitment process, leading to better hires and ultimately, a more robust organization.


For more information on Richard Triggs and his work, visit https://www.areteexecutive.com.au/ and Richard Triggs. And be sure to check out his books, Uncover the Hidden Job Market and Winning the War for Talent.

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