{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"How Curiosity Turns People Skills Into Real Tech Impact","description":"This episode features Todd Hazen, Head of Technical Recruiting at Gusto, in a candid conversation about what it takes to move from non-tech recruiting into the world of technical hiring. Todd shares how he built credibility, developed deep connections, and learned to thrive in a space that demands both curiosity and humility. For talent professionals navigating transitions, this one is packed with lessons on leadership, learning, and trust. Key Takeaways \u2022 Curiosity beats confidence when entering a new domain. Ask questions, even when you\u2019re in a leadership role. \u2022 Building trust with stakeholders comes from honesty and follow-through, not from having every answer on the spot. \u2022 The \u201cbar\u201d for great talent is always shifting. Calibration is an ongoing process, not a one-time intake. \u2022 Vulnerability accelerates growth. Owning what you don\u2019t know helps open doors to learning and partnership. \u2022 Growth and comfort never coexist. Real development happens when you lean into discomfort. Timestamped Highlights 00:43 Todd explains how Gusto supports small businesses and why that mission matters. 03:36 How he navigated the move from non-technical to technical recruiting and what he learned from his team. 06:16 Finding the bar for technical talent and how calibration evolves with each hiring manager. 08:46 Why humility and curiosity are the fastest paths to growth. 12:43 How to handle tough stakeholder conversations when you don\u2019t have all the answers. 15:09 Taking career risks, betting on yourself, and embracing discomfort. 17:45 Defining the North Star and learning to master the craft before chasing the next title. One to Remember \u201cIt\u2019s okay to be humbled and vulnerable. You don\u2019t have to know everything, but you do have to keep learning.\u201d Pro Tips \u2022 Approach every intake meeting like a learning opportunity. \u2022 Build trust by following up fast\u2014deliver before people have to ask. \u2022 Use data to frame conversations with hiring managers, not to replace judgment. Call to Action If you found Todd\u2019s perspective valuable, share this episode with a fellow recruiter who\u2019s looking to grow into new spaces. Follow The Talent Tango for more conversations that help talent leaders level up. ","author_name":"The Talent Tango","author_url":"http:\/\/www.elevano.com","html":"