The job market may be sending mixed signals, but one thing’s clear—companies still hire problem-solvers. In this episode, Jill talks with Kristian Schwartz, founder of The Montgomery Group, about navigating today’s complex hiring landscape with clarity, confidence, and strategy.

Kristian shares how AI is changing the game, how to use summer wisely, and what top candidates are doing differently right now.

• Why AI fluency is no longer optional—only 10% are using it well
• How to turn the summer slowdown into a strategic advantage
• What “builder-leaders” are—and why companies want them
• The right way to follow up after interviews (and when to walk away)

Show Guest: 

Kristian Schwartz founded The Montgomery Group, a boutique search firm specializing in senior-level marketing and media placements. 

Kristian is a seasoned strategic leader with deep experience on both the agency and client side, having worked at Wired Magazine, Razorfish, and Sapient, and partnered with brands like Visa, Verizon, Clorox, Unilever, and HP.

Show Notes:

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Jill Griffin, host of The Career Refresh, delivers expert guidance on workplace challenges and career transitions. Jill leverages her experience working for the world's top brands like Coca-Cola, Microsoft, Hilton Hotels, and Martha Stewart to address leadership, burnout, team dynamics, and the 4Ps (perfectionism, people-pleasing, procrastination, and personalities).

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