HRTech Interview with Heidi Golledge, the CEO and Founder of Jobot

Hello Heidi, welcome to HRTech Cube! Can you share your professional journey and what inspired you to found Jobot?
Thank you for having me—it’s great to be here! My journey has always been driven by a core belief: good jobs change lives. That purpose became my compass. I started in recruiting at a young age and quickly realized hiring isn’t about resumes or roles—it’s about people, purpose, and possibilities.

At 29, with two little ones at home, I co-founded my first recruiting company, using technology to streamline the process while keeping human connection at its core. We grew, we thrived, and eventually, it was acquired. But something was missing. I knew there was more work to do—more lives to impact. During that time, I launched CareerBliss, a platform to help professionals find fulfillment and happiness at work.

And yet, I still felt the vision was unfinished. Jobot was born from that need to combine cutting-edge AI with a foundation of kindness and respect. At Jobot, our AI Jax allows recruiters to work smarter, but it’s our culture—rooted in relationships and respect—that truly makes us stand out.

Every step of this journey taught me that innovation means very little without people at its heart. At Jobot, we lead with compassion, powered by technology, and it’s been the honor of a lifetime to help so many people find opportunities that transform their lives.

In today’s tough job market, what unique strategies can job seekers use to make their applications stand out?
Your story is your superpower—own it. Personalize every application to reflect not just what you’ve done but why it matters to the company’s goals. Employers want to see how your experiences align with their mission, so tell your story with confidence and clarity.

Second, relationships matter. Platforms like LinkedIn are not just for scrolling and posting—they’re tools to build connections that lead to opportunities. Engage with content, celebrate others’ wins, and share insights that reflect who you are and what you value. When you show up authentically, you stand out.

How can job seekers build a strong personal brand that catches the attention of hiring managers?
A personal brand starts with being real. People connect with authenticity, not perfection. Share your mission, your lessons, your wins, and even your challenges. Every experience adds to your story, and hiring managers want to know the person behind the resume.

Use platforms such as LinkedIn as your stage. Don’t just list jobs—share what drove you, what you learned, and the impact you created. Celebrate your passions, engage in conversations that matter to you, and stay curious. A strong brand isn’t about saying the right thing; it’s about being you in a way that resonates with others.

AI is transforming the job market. What do job seekers need to know about the types of jobs that will be in demand and how AI, like ChatGPT, is shaping workplace roles?
AI is a partner, not a threat—it’s enhancing the way we work. For job seekers, this creates at least two opportunities:

1. Embrace tech-forward roles: Fields such as AI integration, data analytics, and machine learning are booming. Understanding how AI tools apply to your industry will set you apart.
2. Double down on humanity: Empathy, creativity, and leadership are areas where humans shine. AI can analyze data, but it takes people to interpret it, make decisions, and drive progress.

The future belongs to those who can find the sweet spot between what technology can do and what only humans can bring—innovation, connection, and vision.

There’s a lot of concern about AI replacing jobs. How can job seekers stay relevant and future-proof their careers in an AI-driven world?
Staying relevant means leaning into change, not fearing it. Adaptability, curiosity, and lifelong learning will be your greatest assets.

Focus on what makes you uniquely human: problem-solving, emotional intelligence, leadership, and creativity. AI can do the repetitive work, but only people can build relationships, inspire teams, and lead innovation.

Learn how AI tools apply to your role, but remember: technology enhances work, it doesn’t replace purpose. The more you evolve, the more valuable you become.

You’ve discussed the importance of a more human hiring process. What are some key ways companies can make their hiring practices more compassionate and transparent?
Start with kindness and respect—always. Behind every application is a person who took a leap of faith to put themselves out there.

• Communicate clearly: Set expectations and provide updates. Transparency builds trust.
• Offer feedback: Even when someone isn’t selected, constructive feedback shows you value their effort.
• Make it personal: Every candidate should feel seen—not like a number. Ask meaningful questions, show genuine interest, and focus on connection.

At Jobot, we believe hiring isn’t just about filling a role; it’s about creating opportunities and relationships that last.

In a tech-driven hiring landscape, how can companies balance the efficiency of advanced technology with the need for empathy and personal connection?
Technology should amplify humanity, not replace it. AI tools streamline the process, giving recruiters more time to do what matters most: connect with people.

Empathy is the game-changer. Candidates deserve clear communication, thoughtful feedback, and a hiring experience that feels personal. At Jobot, our AI Jax handles the heavy lifting so our recruiters can focus on building relationships—that’s where the magic happens.

What steps can businesses take to ensure job seekers feel valued and respected throughout the hiring process?
Making job seekers feel valued and respected starts with clear, honest communication. Candidates deserve timely updates about where they stand in the process, realistic expectations for timelines, and a clear understanding of each step.

It’s also about creating a personal experience. Every candidate is more than just an application—they’re a person with goals, skills, and unique experiences. Ask meaningful questions during interviews, show genuine interest in their aspirations, and tailor your conversations to what truly matters to them. These small but intentional efforts show that you see them as individuals, not just another checkbox to fill.

Transparency is another key. Be upfront about the role, including responsibilities, salary ranges, and your company’s culture. For candidates who aren’t selected, offering constructive feedback shows you respect the time and effort they’ve invested in the process.

At Jobot, we lead with kindness and respect in everything we do. We know hiring isn’t just about finding someone for a job—it’s about creating positive, meaningful experiences for every candidate. When you treat people with kindness and respect, it builds trust and strengthens your reputation as an employer who truly cares.

What personal strategies have helped you foster innovation while maintaining a people-first approach in your leadership?
For me, fostering innovation while staying true to a people-first approach is all about balance. I’ve always believed that the best ideas come from listening—really listening—to your team, your clients, and the people your work impacts. Innovation isn’t about flashy new tools or constant change for the sake of it; it’s about solving real problems in a way that makes life better for people.

One of the ways we encourage innovation is by creating a culture where everyone feels empowered to share their ideas. At Jobot, we don’t just talk about collaboration; we live it.

Curiosity fuels everything. I stay inspired by exploring trends, learning from other industries, and asking: ‘How can we solve this better?’
Above all, I lead with kindness and respect. When you prioritize people, innovation follows.

What final thoughts do you have for job seekers and companies striving to navigate the evolving job market while staying human-centered?
To job seekers: Share your story boldly. Stay adaptable, stay curious, and know that what makes you unique is your greatest strength.

To companies: Never forget the human in human resources. Hiring is about more than filling roles—it’s about building relationships, creating opportunities, and treating candidates with kindness and respect.

In a tech-driven world, human connection is the differentiator. When people and companies prioritize empathy, innovation, and integrity, we don’t just navigate change—we lead it.