The Elite Recruiter Podcast

Laid Off to Agency Owner: Zach Keen’s Proven Blueprint for Launching and Growing a Winning Recruiting Firm

8 snips
May 26, 2025
Zach Keen, the founder of Keen Search and Staffing, shares his transformative journey from being laid off to successfully running a recruiting firm. He discusses the importance of mentorship and securing investors to ease the transition. Zach offers insights into modern business development strategies, contrasting traditional approaches with innovative outreach. He candidly addresses the challenges of balancing family life with entrepreneurship while emphasizing the need for authenticity in client relationships. Tune in for tangible tips on thriving in the competitive recruiting landscape!
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ADVICE

Seek Investor Mentorship

  • Get mentorship from those who have run recruiting businesses before.
  • Use their experience for guidance on hiring, business creation, and decision feedback.
ANECDOTE

Landing First Clients Quickly

  • Zach used his decade-long Houston market experience to call CFOs about open accounting roles.
  • He quickly landed contract roles as clients responded to his calls and he secured insurance.
INSIGHT

Brand Size Matters Less Than Fit

  • Clients often do not care about the recruiting firm's brand size if the right candidates are presented.
  • Quality and fit matter far more than big-name recruiting firms.
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