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The Human Touch in Modern Recruitment: Insights from HEC’s Andrew Aston

In today’s increasingly automated world of talent acquisition, finding the right balance between technology and personal connection remains a significant challenge. A recent episode of the C-Suite Serpas podcast hosted by Ron Partridge featured Andrew Aston, founder of Human Element Company LLC (HEC), who shared valuable insights on how his company is revolutionizing the staffing industry by putting people first.

Scroll down to watch the entire episode, or click here.

Reimagining Recruitment Services

Human Element Company offers a comprehensive suite of staffing solutions, including direct hire, retained search, and various contractual arrangements. What sets them apart in a crowded marketplace is their personalized payroll services—a human-centered approach that larger staffing firms often lack.

“We believe that effective recruitment goes beyond matching skills on paper,” Aston explained during the podcast. “It’s about understanding the whole person and how they’ll contribute to an organization’s success.”

Looking Beyond the Resume

HEC’s approach to candidate assessment is refreshingly thorough. Rather than relying solely on algorithms or keyword matching, they invest time in building genuine connections with candidates. This personal touch allows them to understand motivations, aspirations, and potential that might not be immediately evident on a resume.

“A resume tells you what someone has done, but not who they are,” Aston emphasized. “Our in-depth assessment process reveals the person behind the qualifications.”

The Critical Importance of Cultural Alignment

One of the most compelling insights from the podcast was HEC’s methodology for ensuring cultural fit. Aston described their collaborative process with HR departments and executive teams to identify skill requirements and the values and principles that drive the organization.

This alignment between candidate values and company culture has proven essential for long-term employee satisfaction and retention—a crucial consideration in today’s competitive job market.

Soft Skills: The Overlooked Differentiator

While technical skills often dominate job descriptions, HEC places significant emphasis on soft skills assessment. Their process evaluates how candidates communicate, collaborate, and adapt to changing circumstances—qualities that frequently determine success within a team environment.

“Technical skills get you in the door, but soft skills determine how far you’ll go once inside,” Aston noted during the discussion.

Navigating AI in Recruitment

As artificial intelligence increasingly influences the recruitment landscape, HEC is committed to authenticity. Aston spoke candidly about the challenges of AI-enhanced resumes and the importance of presenting candidates honestly, without artificial embellishments.

“We value transparency and integrity in our process,” he stated. “Our clients appreciate that we show them real people, not idealized versions created by AI.”

Meeting Modern Staffing Challenges

The staffing industry continues to face the dual challenges of volume and quality. HEC’s methodical approach helps organizations cut through the noise, presenting only the most suitable candidates rather than overwhelming hiring managers with options.

This targeted strategy saves valuable time and resources while improving the likelihood of successful, lasting placements.

A Different Kind of Staffing Partner

Based just outside Los Angeles, Human Element Company serves diverse industries, including aerospace and healthcare. Their commitment to the human element of staffing offers a refreshing alternative to transactional recruitment models.

To learn more about HEC’s innovative approach or to discuss your staffing needs, visit www.humanelementcompany.com or connect with Andrew directly on LinkedIn. You can also reach the team via email at [email protected] at [email protected] or by phone at (213) 973-2127.

Human Element Company reminds us that the most successful businesses are still built on authentic human connections in a world increasingly driven by automation.

Professional Staffing and HR Services

HEC Co-Founders, Andrew Aston and Jennifer Abbott
HEC Co-Founders,
Andrew Aston and Jennifer Abbott

HR Trends to Watch in 2025

HR Trends to Watch in 2025

As we navigate through 2025, the HR landscape continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace. This year is set to bring exciting opportunities for innovation and growth, from advancements in AI technology to shifts in workforce dynamics. In this article, we will explore the top HR trends shaping the future of work and provide insights on how your business can stay ahead of the curve.

1. AI-Driven HR Solutions Become Mainstream

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has moved beyond being a futuristic concept to becoming integral to modern HR practices. In 2025, AI will streamline processes such as recruitment, performance evaluations, and employee engagement. AI-powered tools can analyze vast amounts of data, predict trends, and provide actionable insights, allowing HR teams to focus on strategic decision-making.1

For example, AI chatbots are widely used to answer employee FAQs and automate candidate screenings, significantly reducing the administrative burden on HR professionals.1

2. Employee Well-Being Takes Center Stage

Mental health and well-being have become front and center in HR strategies for 2025. Companies invest heavily in wellness programs, mental health resources, and stress management tools to create a healthier and more productive workforce.3

Consider implementing monthly wellness check-ins or offering access to therapy apps to support your employees’ well-being.3

3. Reskilling and Upskilling Become Imperative

As technology advances at a rapid pace, reskilling and upskilling have become crucial for businesses to remain competitive. In 2025, companies are focusing on preparing their employees for the future of work by offering training programs that address emerging skills.4

Provide your employees with opportunities to obtain certifications in areas such as data analysis, AI, or leadership development to future-proof your workforce.4

4. Data-Driven HR Becomes the Norm

HR is becoming increasingly data-centric in 2025. Metrics such as employee engagement scores, turnover rates, and diversity statistics are helping HR leaders make informed decisions to improve company culture and operations.5

Leverage HR analytics software to monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and gain valuable insights into your workforce.5

5. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Remain a Top Priority

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) remain a top priority for businesses in 2025. Companies are committing to creating inclusive workplaces by addressing unconscious bias, providing equity in opportunities, and fostering a sense of belonging for all employees.6

To promote DEI in your organization, host regular workshops and set measurable diversity goals.6

Stay Ahead with Human Element Company

At Human Element Company, we are dedicated to helping your business thrive in this ever-changing HR landscape. From flexible staffing solutions to strategic HR consulting, we provide the tools and expertise you need to succeed.

Let’s make 2025 your best year yet. Contact us today to learn how we can help you stay ahead of these trends and build a stronger, more innovative team.

Footnotes

  1. Society for Human Resource Management. (2025). The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on HR Practices. ↩ ↩2
  2. Harvard Business Review. (2025). Prioritizing Employee Well-Being: Strategies for a Healthier Workforce. ↩ ↩2
  3. World Economic Forum. (2025). The Future of Jobs Report 2025. ↩ ↩2
  4. HR Technologist. (2025). Leveraging Data Analytics for Effective HR Decision-Making. ↩ ↩2
  5. Deloitte Insights. (2025). Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: A Business Imperative in 2025. ↩ ↩2

Professional Staffing and HR Services

HEC Co-Founders, Andrew Aston and Jennifer Abbott
HEC Co-Founders,
Andrew Aston and Jennifer Abbott

How to Create the Ultimate Company Culture

Are you striving to cultivate an engaging and productive workplace environment? Discover essential strategies in our featured episode from the ‘Ignite Your Business’ podcast, where Andrew Aston reveals insights on “How to Create the Ultimate Company Culture.”

Andrew delves deep into the foundational elements that contribute to a thriving company culture in this enlightening discussion. He explores how integrating a human-centered approach into your recruitment strategy can significantly enhance employee satisfaction and success. Although this episode aired a few years ago, it continues to offer timeless lessons that are pivotal for any entrepreneur facing staffing challenges or aiming to revitalize their organizational culture.

LISTEN HERE

Key Takeaways:

  • Importance of Alignment: Learn how aligning your company’s values with daily operations can motivate your team and improve retention.
  • Strategies for Engagement: Discover innovative techniques to boost employee engagement that goes beyond conventional perks and benefits.
  • Recruitment and Retention: Gain insights into how a strong company culture can attract top talent and reduce turnover rates.

Build A Company Culture

If you want to refine your workplace environment or seek innovative ways to enhance your staffing solutions, this podcast episode is a treasure trove of valuable insights. Tune in to transform your hiring process and build a company culture that resonates with success.

Ready to transform your workplace? Listen to the full podcast episode now, and don’t forget to share your thoughts and takeaways with us. Your feedback is invaluable as we continue to explore topics that matter to you. LISTEN HERE

Professional Staffing and HR Services

HEC Co-Founders, Andrew Aston and Jennifer Abbott
HEC Co-Founders,
Andrew Aston and Jennifer Abbott