In this session, we dive into the world of hospitality recruiting and talent acquisition—what it takes to find, retain, and grow great people in today’s restaurant and hospitality industry. In this episode of Rising Tides Live, guest hosts Ian Hoxworth and Lauren Hodges of EHS Recruiting step in for Shawn Walchef to lead a practical and heartfelt conversation about hiring strategies, the evolving job market, and the human side of recruitment. From proactive outreach and employee referrals to job board challenges and the value of mentorship, the group shares insights and real-world stories that reflect the complexities of building great teams. At its core, this conversation reminds us that recruiting isn’t just about filling roles—it’s about relationships, culture, and creating opportunities that change lives.
Interview Takeaways:
- Why Recruiting Is Really About Relationships – Recruiting isn’t just about filling open roles; it’s about building trust, understanding company culture, and forming long-term partnerships. As Lauren Hodges explains, the most successful placements happen when recruiters deeply understand both the candidate and the company—turning a transactional process into a transformational one.
- How Operators Can Compete Without Big Budgets – You don’t need a massive talent acquisition team to attract top talent. From employee referral incentives to grassroots networking and clear communication, smaller operators can level the playing field by being more intentional, proactive, and strategic in how they approach hiring.
- The Future of Hiring Is Personal – In today’s labor market, job seekers want more than just a paycheck—they want to feel connected, valued, and aligned with a company’s mission. Whether it’s through earned wage access, flexible scheduling, or mentorship opportunities, businesses that personalize the employee experience will have the edge in both recruitment and retention.
Episode Links:
About Our Sponsors
DAVO:DAVO automates every step of the sales tax process — from collecting to filing to paying...
Click here to learn more
Marqii:Marqii is designed to create unforgettable customer experiences...
Click here to learn moreWhere to find Cali BBQ Media
