TALiNT Leaders Workshop Manchester: Key Takeaways

This week the Evidenced team headed north for the TALiNT Leaders Workshop in Manchester, where we had the privilege of hosting a lively panel discussion alongside peers from BT, Sixley, and Flutter International.

The session brought together Talent leaders from across industries to share what’s working, what’s changing, and how teams are adapting to new realities in hiring.

Our Key Takeaways

1. Your Hiring Managers are your EVP in action

When it comes to candidate experience, Hiring Managers often represent the very first moment of real human connection. They’re the ones who bring your Employee Value Proposition (EVP) to life - or risk diluting it if they’re not fully aligned. The discussion highlighted how vital it is for Hiring Managers to understand and embody your EVP, because a consistent message, delivered authentically, can make all the difference in how candidates perceive your brand.

2. AI is powerful - but must be used with consideration

No surprise that AI was front and centre again. But now the question isn’t whether to use it, but where and how. Everyone agreed that automation can bring huge efficiency gains - from screening to scheduling - but there’s a fine balance to strike. The risk is saving time at the expense of human warmth and candidate experience.

3. Time saved should be time reinvested

As Talent teams free up time with smarter tools, the next challenge is deciding what to do with it. There was a shared sense that this is the moment for recruiters to step up as strategic partners, not just service providers. Whether it’s workforce planning, skills mapping, or supporting internal mobility, AI can open the door to more meaningful, consultative work.

4. Building flexibility through contingent talent

Another theme that resonated was flexibility. In a market where headcount plans can shift overnight, having a contingent workforce can help businesses stay nimble without losing momentum. The key is to see this not as a stopgap but as a strategic lever, and one that enables organisations to adapt quickly to change while maintaining high standards and cultural consistency.

5. Skills are the new magnet

While values alignment remains important, we’re seeing a shift in what truly attracts talent today. Candidates are looking beyond purpose and perks - they want growth. They want to know they’ll be learning new skills that prepare them for the future of work. Employers who can show clear development pathways and a culture of continuous learning will have a real edge in the competition for talent.

A huge thank you again to our fellow panellists and to the TALiNT Partners team for curating a fantastic event.