Direct Sourcing Is A Commitment, I Saw Sasquatch, Happy Q3, Alright-Love You, Podcast Collaboration, AI in the Workforce News + Bonus Meme

Your newsletter for a lighter and different spin on the CW world.

The Latest AI in the Workforce News:

• BNY Mellon Deploys “Digital Employees”

• Upwork Study: AI Is Shifting Gigs, Not Destroying Them

• UK Entry-Level Jobs Decline by 32%

Newsletter Exclusive Content:

Direct Sourcing Is A Commitment

I’m doubling down on something I wrote about a month ago: Direct sourcing isn’t a channel you toggle on. It’s a commitment you build toward.

And yet, so many programs treat it like a feature—an add-on module or checkbox during implementation.

“We have direct sourcing.”

But do you?

You have a login screen, maybe a few people in a dusty talent pool, and a recruiter who’s also juggling 25 other things.

Direct sourcing fails when it’s treated like:

• A pilot that never graduates

• A workaround to avoid staffing markups

• A branded job board with no marketing

• A “we’ll try it on one role” kind of initiative

Here’s what real direct sourcing requires:

• Volume with consistency
  You need repeatable, similar roles that allow the talent pool to grow and stay relevant.

• Time and intention
  Talent pools aren’t built overnight. They need to be curated, refreshed, and re-engaged continuously.

• Recruitment marketing
  People don’t join talent communities just because they exist. You need a compelling value prop, clear messaging, and consistent visibility.

• Integrated enablement
  From job scoping to compliance to onboarding, every stakeholder needs to know how this works—and why they should use it.

• Change management
  Let’s call a spade a spade—most hiring managers still default to “just call a supplier.” That shift in behavior takes work.

Direct sourcing can work. But only if you treat it like an investment instead of a shortcut.

LinkedIn Content You May Have Missed:

Monday, June 30, 2025 - I saw Sasquatch, and So Have You

I wrote a short piece based on my experience recently on the Oregon coast and how Sasquatch inspired me. Read it here.

Tuesday, July 1, 2025 - Happy Q3…

Some companies use odd dates for the fiscal years. That’s it. That’s literally the post. Best of luck in your Q3 or whatever your company goes by.

Wednesday, July 2, 2025 - Alright, Love You!

I know I’m not alone in having accidentally done this when on the phone with a client or colleague. Read more here.

Thursday, July 3, 2025 - Whisperer Podcast Collaboration

TekWissen had asked me to help them with bringing a podcast idea to life and I’m excited to announce that we’re finally launching Whisperer. Read more about the podcast here.

Bonus Meme:

Thanks for subscribing! As a way of saying thanks for being here, I’ve got a bonus meme for you!

Just a brief reminder that I’m here for you to be you advisor, consultant, and trusted ally in all things contingent workforce!

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That’s it for this week, check out more content all throughout next week!