Honest Session of Tough Love

For many professionals, the 2026 hiring market has been marked by mixed signals. Companies are hiring, yet candidates can still find it difficult to land roles that feel like the right fit—or even get a response after applying. Part of the challenge is that hiring managers are becoming increasingly specific about what they are looking for in their next hire. It is no longer just about having the right experience on paper. Candidates also need to understand the role, what the employer truly needs, and how their experience can contribute. If your job search has felt frustrating or confusing, you’re not alone. Understanding what employers are really looking for can help you approach your search with greater confidence and clarity.

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At Career Group Companies, our recruiters have these conversations with candidates every day, while also speaking directly with clients to understand what they’re prioritizing. That perspective allows us to give candidates a clearer picture of what employers are actually looking for, help them navigate specific opportunities, and offer guidance on how to communicate their experience and goals in a way that resonates. Career Group Companies’ CEO, Susan Levine, and Managing Director of Career Group Search, Catherine Drinker, offer a little tough love in the latest episode of Recruiting Office Hours. In a candid conversation, Susan and Catherine share what they’re hearing directly from hiring managers and offer practical advice for professionals navigating today’s search.

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In this episode, they discuss:

• What are leading companies looking for in their next hire?
• What does 24/7 mean in a job requirement?
• Why does the job market feel stuck right now? Companies are hiring, and many candidates are looking for new opportunities, so what is the disconnect?
• Can AI really replace an Executive Assistant?
• What celebrities look for when hiring an Executive Assistant.
• Is it worth accepting a counteroffer?
• Is it really worth it to interview for a job you have no intention of accepting it?

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Whether you’re actively searching, considering your next career move, or simply wondering what’s happening behind the scenes of today’s hiring process, this episode is worth your time.  

Listen to Susan and Catherine’s full conversation on Spotify or Youtube for an honest look at what employers are prioritizing, what candidates can do differently, and how you can navigate your next opportunity with confidence.

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About Recruiting Office Hours

Recruiting Office Hours is Career Group Companies’ candid conversation series featuring the recruiters and leaders who know the hiring market firsthand. Each episode explores the questions we’re hearing from our clients and candidates — from hiring trends and career decisions to interviewing, workplace changes, and what it really takes to build a successful team.

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With more than four decades of recruiting experience, Career Group Companies brings a hands-on, relationship-driven approach to every search. We believe the best recruiting starts with listening, asking the right questions, and understanding what both the company and the professional are really looking for.

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If you're actively hiring and want to build a team with intention and clarity, connect with our team of recruiting experts through our hire talent form to talk through your hiring needs.

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If you're considering your next career move and want to explore opportunities aligned with your real priorities, apply to our current open roles to connect with one of our experienced recruiters.