In this episode of Professional Launch, Ricot Aladin sits down with Matt Helander, Managing Director of a Fargo-based recruiting firm, to talk about career pivots, networking, and the realities of today’s job market. Matt shares his journey from IT to recruiting, the skills that carried over, and the biggest lessons learned from 13+ years of helping professionals and companies find the right fit.
The conversation dives into:
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Why networking still trumps résumés in landing opportunities
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How to build trust and long-term career relationships
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The rise of AI in recruiting (and the risks of “too-perfect” résumés)
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The most in-demand industries in Fargo right now
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Résumé strategies: when to use a “first impression” résumé vs. a detailed one
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Top mistakes job seekers make in interviews (and how to avoid them)
Matt also reflects on mentorship, the value of chasing what you enjoy sooner rather than later, and why expanding your network is the most powerful investment you can make in your career.