Horizontal Talent’s Jeremy Langevin On How AI Can't Replace Storytelling and Empathy in Recruiting

In this episode of Humans of Staffing, Jeremy Langevin, CEO of Horizontal Talent, demonstrates how his nearly $200 million firm successfully implements AI at scale while preserving the human elements that drive recruitment success. He reveals the tactical framework for "human-in-the-loop" AI deployment, where voice agents handle 20,000 candidate pre-screens simultaneously while recruiters focus on storytelling, empathy, and cultural assessment—the irreplaceable human capabilities that close deals.

Topics discussed:

• Human-in-the-loop AI framework: Defining what AI excels at (scale data analysis, standardized processes) versus uniquely human capabilities (storytelling, empathy, persuasion) to create optimal task allocation within recruitment workflows.
• Voice AI implementation at enterprise scale: Deploying conversational AI agents that contact candidates within 60 seconds of application, conducting full pre-screens and scoring prospects to surface top candidates—enabling simultaneous evaluation of 5,000-20,000 applicants versus traditional sequential screening.
• The 70% effectiveness threshold: Understanding that AI implementations delivering up to 70% effectiveness represent significant wins, requiring iterative refinement rather than expecting plug-and-play perfection from emerging technologies.
• Cultural assessment as human differentiator: Positioning recruiters for final-mile activities including cultural alignment evaluation, relationship building, and persuasion—the high-value interactions that determine placement success after AI handles initial screening.
• Generational acceptance patterns: Navigating candidate demographics where college graduates increasingly expect AI-first interactions, with recent graduates reporting their last four job interviews began with AI screening rather than human contact.
• Sequential international expansion methodology: Building global operations across India, Malaysia, and Australia by leveraging existing US client relationships with overseas centers, creating natural bridges to local market opportunities while moving up the value chain.
• Managing multi-currency complexity: Handling clients headquartered in Germany with operations in Malaysia while managing currency fluctuation impacts on margins, plus the sophisticated finance organization required for international operations.
• Future workforce composition prediction: Preparing for a management structure where leaders oversee both human employees and digital agents, with the expectation that 30-50% of teams could be AI agents within 5-7 years across suitable roles and industries.