Hiring top tech talent has never been more challenging or more full of hidden opportunity. While the job market shifts and AI disrupts traditional recruitment, many companies are making the same costly mistakes that keep them from finding the right people.
Declan Link, President and Founder of Link 2 Solutions LLC, has spent over 30 years connecting businesses with high-caliber IT professionals. In this episode of The Garlic Marketing Show, he shares the strategies that have kept him ahead for decades, from navigating economic cycles to uncovering the “human touch” AI can’t replace.
If you’re struggling to hire or be hired in today’s market, you’ll want to hear this.
But before we proceed, don’t forget that this episode is brought to you by Video Case Story, collecting, crafting, and delivering customer stories.
Why AI is Both a Hiring Ally and a Hiring Hazard
AI is everywhere in recruitment screening, resumes, writing job descriptions, and matching candidates. Declan sees the value: HR teams can process thousands of applications faster.
But there’s a downside. Great candidates are slipping through the cracks because AI can’t evaluate cultural fit, personality, or the intangible traits that make someone a long-term asset.
That’s where experienced recruiters stand apart. Declan’s network, built over decades, allows him to personally match candidates to companies in ways algorithms can’t.
The Overstuffed Job Description Trap
In uncertain markets, Declan notices a familiar pattern: companies try to roll two or three positions into one role and still offer a single salary.
It’s a false economy. You either fail to find a “unicorn” who can do it all, or you burn out the person you hire. His advice: get crystal clear on the role’s core responsibilities and pay competitively for that scope.
The Best Times to Recruit High-Quality Tech Talent
Declan highlights two peak periods when companies are most likely to attract and secure top candidates:
- Mid-January to Memorial Day – Fresh budgets and new projects make this the ideal time to launch recruitment campaigns and fill critical roles.
- Post-Labor Day to mid-November – A final hiring surge before year-end deadlines creates strong competition for talent.
Outside of these windows, activity can slow down due to vacations, school schedules, and year-end planning. However, companies that continue targeted outreach during these slower months often find less competition and more opportunities to connect with in-demand professionals.
The “10% Candidate Signal” Recruiters Should Watch For
Declan points out that only about 10% of candidates send a thank-you note after an interview. While it’s a small gesture, it signals professionalism, attention to detail, and genuine interest — traits that can indicate a strong long-term hire. Recruiters who pay attention to these follow-up habits can spot candidates who go the extra mile.
Make Your LinkedIn Presence Impossible for Candidates to Ignore
For organizations, LinkedIn isn’t just a job board. It’s an ongoing showcase of your brand, culture, and success stories. Declan advises keeping your company page active and authentic, so potential hires are already interested before you reach out. The best recruitment happens when talent is drawn to you, not just found by you.
Why Relationships Will Outlast Any Algorithm
Despite AI’s growing role, Declan believes human relationships will only become more valuable. As automation increases, trust and personal connection will be the true differentiators.
After decades in the business, his edge isn’t just knowing where to look. It’s knowing who to call and having the trust that those calls will be answered.
If you’re ready to navigate the challenges of hiring in the AI era or land your next great role, this episode is a masterclass in strategy, timing, and human connection.
Watch the full episode now, and make sure to leave your questions or comments about the conversation.