The Human Algorithm: Why Systems Need Soul
Everyone’s trying to automate their way to success these days. Tools, technologies, metrics - they’re all promising to turn business development into a perfectly predictable science. But here’s what I’ve learned watching successful recruiters: the magic happens when rigid systems meet human touch.
Think of it like cooking. You need precise measurements and techniques, sure. But the best chefs know when to trust their instincts, when to adjust the heat, when to add that pinch of something special. That’s exactly how modern recruiting works.
I’m fascinated by one recruiter’s approach that perfectly illustrates this balance. Their system is methodical - 95 activities per week, broken down into exact numbers of calls, emails, and connections. It’s like a recipe with precise measurements. But here’s where it gets interesting: they wrap these metrics around a mission to “put humanity back into hiring.”
Their touchpoint system is particularly clever. Instead of hammering prospects with the same automated message, they orchestrate a symphony of 7-9 different touches. Cold calls harmonize with handwritten notes. LinkedIn connections blend with voice memos. Each interaction is measured but feels personal - like a friend reaching out in different ways.
The foundation matters too. This recruiter didn’t jump straight into specialized fields. They started in temp staffing, learning the fundamentals before moving to accounting and finance recruiting. It’s like learning to walk before running a marathon. The basics become muscle memory, freeing you to focus on the human element.
But here’s what really sets their approach apart: they’re not trying to work with everyone. They target 50 specific companies. Their fees are fixed. Their standards are high. They spell their values out in “HUMANITY” and mean it. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best systems are the ones that know when to say no.
The results? They’re not just hitting numbers - they’re building relationships that last. Their CRM isn’t just full of contacts; it’s full of stories, connections, and trust built over time.
In an age where everyone’s chasing the next big automation tool, maybe the real innovation is knowing how to blend metrics with meaning. After all, the best systems don’t replace humanity - they enhance it.