371 LinkedIn’s First CHRO and Author of Workquake Steve Cadigan on the Future of Work

In this episode of Partnering Leadership, Mahan Tavakoli speaks with Steve Cadigan, renowned talent strategist, leadership advisor, and author of the acclaimed book Workquake. Steve brings decades of experience shaping talent strategies for some of the most innovative companies in the world, including Cisco, Electronic Arts, and LinkedIn, where he played a pivotal role as the company’s first Chief HR Officer during its meteoric rise.

Steve Cadigan explores the seismic shifts reshaping the workplace, from the unprecedented power shift toward employees to the increasing necessity for organizations to embrace agility in a high-turnover world. In a lively and insightful conversation, he challenges traditional leadership paradigms, emphasizing the importance of rethinking outdated systems designed for a workforce that no longer exists. Whether it's hiring for potential, fostering cultures of continuous learning, or preparing for the impacts of AI, Steve delivers actionable strategies for CEOs and senior executives navigating the future of work.

As the world moves at an accelerating pace, Steve highlights the critical need for organizations to adapt to the realities of shorter employee tenure and heightened workforce expectations. He shares stories and examples from his extensive career to illustrate how leaders can position their organizations to thrive by creating environments where people want to stay—not because they have to, but because they’re inspired to.

Actionable Takeaways

• "You'll learn why the war for talent is over—and why talent has already won."
   Hear Steve Cadigan explain how the power dynamic has shifted to employees and what leaders must do to create an environment where people want to stay.
  
  
  
• "Discover why long-term employee tenure is a thing of the past."
   Explore how leaders can move away from outdated systems and embrace agile workforce strategies for a high-turnover reality.
  
  
  
• "Hear how to attract top talent without relying on higher salaries or perks."
   Learn why building a culture of meaningful work and belonging is the ultimate competitive advantage in today’s job market.
  
  
  
• "Find out why hiring for potential beats hiring for experience."
   Steve shares why adaptability and learning velocity are more valuable than traditional resumes in a fast-changing world.
  
  
  
• "Explore how leaders can thrive in high-turnover environments."
   Steve reveals strategies used by innovative companies like Google and Tesla to foster creativity and innovation despite short employee tenures.
  
  
  
• "Learn how to build alumni networks that amplify your brand."
   Discover why staying connected with former employees is a powerful strategy for recruitment, collaboration, and long-term success.
  
  
  
• "Uncover the true role of AI in reshaping work."
   Hear why AI should be used to enhance jobs and unlock human creativity rather than simply cutting costs and headcount.
  
  
  
• "Get actionable insights on fostering learning ecosystems."
   Steve discusses how organizations can invest in continuous learning to remain competitive and retain talent.
  
  
  
• "Understand the importance of rewriting job descriptions for today’s workforce."
   Learn how to craft roles that inspire candidates and reflect the dynamic realities of modern work.
  
  
  
• "Discover why culture is the most powerful recruiting tool you have."
   Steve emphasizes the importance of creating workplaces where people feel

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