After more than 20 years in executive recruiting, Steve Lavner has seen it all, and he’s pulling back the curtain on what really happens in the hiring world. In this candid conversation, Steve shares the unspoken truths of recruiting at the highest levels, the politics behind hiring decisions, and how the job market has shifted beneath our feet. He talks why “career progression” is an illusion, why the best candidates sometimes get passed over, how careers are turning into project role after project role, and what it was like going through his own sudden layoff. It’s part reality check, part roadmap, and a fully honest look at how work, loyalty, and success have evolved in recent years.
Steve Lavner spent over 20 years in executive search and talent acquisition. As Senior Vice President of Talent Acquisition at Edelman Smithfield, a global financial communications boutique within Edelman, he connected top talent with roles across 25+ cities worldwide. Prior to his recruiting roles, Steve performed on Broadway, playing Le Fou in Beauty and the Beast. He’s now a certified Senior Professional Career Coach and creates short, uplifting YouTube videos of kids songs in his spare time.
Connect with Steve on LinkedIn, his career coaching website Steve Lavner Talent Advisory, or on his YouTube channel.
Connect with Megan on LinkedIn and Instagram.