In this HR Heretics segment, Nolan and Kelli talk about "back channels" in the hiring process.

They dive deep into this controversial practice and how back channels can impact candidate selection, emphasizing the need for a thoughtful, mature approach that considers the full context of a candidate's experience and potential.

*Email us your questions or topics for Kelli & Nolan: hrheretics@turpentine.co

HR Heretics is a podcast from Turpentine.

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KEEP UP WITH NOLAN, + KELLI ON LINKEDIN

Nolan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nolan-church/

Kelli: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellidragovich/

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TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) - Intro

(00:54) - Defining back channels as "underground mafia" of feedback

(01:52) - The right way to do back channeling

(03:03) - Maturity in back channeling conversations

(04:12) - When to do back channeling

(05:43) - Avoiding the "back channeling frenzy"

(06:42) - Timing of back channeling in the hiring process

(07:55) - Sponsors - Planful | Workvivo

(10:48) - How to properly conduct a back channel inquiry

(12:04) - Sponsor - Metaview

(13:40) - Typical back channel communication methods

(14:50) - Real example of a nuanced back channel situation

(15:59) - The "family reunion" analogy for bias in back channels

(17:18) - Importance of considering human growth in back channels

(18:31) - Handling negative back channel feedback

(20:05) - Using back channel feedback as a litmus test for candidates

(20:53) - Criticism of board members' approach to back channels

(21:51) - Shallowness in high-level back channel feedback

(22:45) - Wrap

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit hrheretics.substack.com

How Back Channels Really Shape Hiring Decisions

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