In this episode of Humans of Staffing, Jeremy Langevin, CEO of Horizontal Talent, demonstrates how his nearly $200 million firm successfully implements AI at scale while preserving the human elements that drive recruitment success. He reveals the tactical framework for “human-in-the-loop” AI deployment, where voice agents handle 20,000 candidate pre-screens simultaneously while recruiters focus on storytelling, empathy, and cultural assessment—the irreplaceable human capabilities that close deals.

Topics discussed:

• Human-in-the-loop AI framework: Defining what AI excels at (scale data analysis, standardized processes) versus uniquely human capabilities (storytelling, empathy, persuasion) to create optimal task allocation within recruitment workflows.
• Voice AI implementation at enterprise scale: Deploying conversational AI agents that contact candidates within 60 seconds of application, conducting full pre-screens and scoring prospects to surface top candidates—enabling simultaneous evaluation of 5,000-20,000 applicants versus traditional sequential screening.
• The 70% effectiveness threshold: Understanding that AI implementations delivering up to 70% effectiveness represent significant wins, requiring iterative refinement rather than expecting plug-and-play perfection from emerging technologies.
• Cultural assessment as human differentiator: Positioning recruiters for final-mile activities including cultural alignment evaluation, relationship building, and persuasion—the high-value interactions that determine placement success after AI handles initial screening.
• Generational acceptance patterns: Navigating candidate demographics where college graduates increasingly expect AI-first interactions, with recent graduates reporting their last four job interviews began with AI screening rather than human contact.
• Sequential international expansion methodology: Building global operations across India, Malaysia, and Australia by leveraging existing US client relationships with overseas centers, creating natural bridges to local market opportunities while moving up the value chain.
• Managing multi-currency complexity: Handling clients headquartered in Germany with operations in Malaysia while managing currency fluctuation impacts on margins, plus the sophisticated finance organization required for international operations.
• Future workforce composition prediction: Preparing for a management structure where leaders oversee both human employees and digital agents, with the expectation that 30-50% of teams could be AI agents within 5-7 years across suitable roles and industries.