Talent Acquisition Director Dora Rodriguez shares how The Friedkin Group is striking a balance between AI and human-centered approaches to hiring.

By Debbie Bolla

HRO Today: What is the biggest hiring challenge you are currently facing and what are you plans to overcome it?  

Dora Rodriguez: The biggest challenge facing talent acquisition today is striking the right balance between embracing AI-driven transformation and preserving the human-centered experience at the core of hiring. As technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, there is a growing need to ensure that digital tools enhance—not replace—the connection, empathy, and trust that candidates seek during the hiring process.  

HROT: In what ways do you leverage AI and what is its impact?  

Rodriguez: We leverage AI to streamline key recruiting tasks—such as scheduling, note-taking, CRM outreach, and automated survey distribution—allowing our team to focus more on high-impact, personal candidate interactions. By combining AI with thoughtful communication, ongoing recruiter training, and real-time feedback from surveys, we ensure technology enhances the hiring process without losing the human touch. This approach helps us deliver an experience that is both efficient and authentically people-focused.  

HROT: What strategies do you leverage to build a proactive hiring mindset?   

Rodriguez: We foster a proactive hiring mindset through ongoing collaboration and strategic checkpoints with business leaders to stay aligned on priorities that drive impact. Our team remains engaged in industry and community events to stay connected to talent trends, market shifts, and best practices. We also continuously explore new tools and technologies that support our commitment to a positive candidate experience and future-focused hiring strategies. 

HROT: What are you currently reading?  

Rodriguez: I’m passionate about staying informed and sharing knowledge. We created a monthly Talent Acquisition Newsletter for our TA and HR teams to keep everyone aligned on trends shaping our space. Personally, I enjoy reading a wide range of sources to maintain a holistic perspective—including the BGSF Jobs Report, HRO Today, ERE, HR Executive, SHRM, Josh Bersin, Only McKinsey Perspectives, Fisher Phillips Insights, Glassdoor, LinkedIn, iCIMS Workforce Report, Korn Ferry, and more. I also tune into industry podcasts like Talent Acquisition Leaders Podcast and keep an eye on updates from TALK, SHRM, Hacking HR, NACE, and WARN. It’s my way of staying curious and connected to what’s next in the world of talent.