Using Masterminds and Events to Attract Top Talent Without Sounding Like a Recruiter

Recruiting Conversations

Let’s talk about one of the most powerful, and most underused, tools in recruiting: events and masterminds. Not the big splashy hotel-ballroom kind. I’m talking about strategic, intimate gatherings that position you as a leader, not a recruiter.

In this episode of Recruiting Conversations, I walk you through how to host the kind of experience that attracts high-level talent without ever pitching your opportunity. You’ll learn how to move from chasing candidates to curating conversations that build trust, momentum, and long-term recruiting wins.

Episode Breakdown

[00:00] Introduction – The overlooked power of events and masterminds in modern recruiting. [01:00] Why Pitches Fall Flat – Top talent doesn’t want another comp plan meeting. They want meaningful conversation. [01:30] Step 1: Solve a Real Problem – Create a topic around what producers actually care about: margin compression, referrals, personal brand, burnout, AI tools. [02:30] Step 2: Invite Strategically – Avoid salesy language. Use this: “No pitch. Just great conversation with people who are growing.” [03:30] Step 3: Facilitate Like a Pro – You don’t need to be the expert. Ask great questions, spotlight others, and guide the room. [04:30] The Follow-Up Strategy – After the event, send a resource or personalized note that connects to what they shared. [05:00] Real Story – How one client hosted a 6-person breakfast that led to a recruit texting her days later asking for a conversation, without ever mentioning her company. [05:30] Final Challenge – Build a mastermind in the next 30 days. Make it meaningful. Let value open the recruiting door.

Key Takeaways

• Stop Pitching. Start Curating. – Recruiting isn’t about features. It’s about creating spaces where people want to belong.

• Solve Real Problems – When you focus on what producers are struggling with, they’ll lean in.

• Be the Host, Not the Hero – Great facilitators create rooms others want to return to.

• Recruit Without Recruiting – Share resources. Follow up with intention. Lead the relationship.

• Events Build Trust at Scale – You’re not chasing people. You’re inviting them into a conversation worth joining.

If you want to win the top 20%, stop sounding like every other recruiter. Lead something real. Build something valuable. And create rooms where leaders want to sit.

Want help building your first mastermind or recruiting event? Subscribe to my weekly email at 4crecruiting.com or book a session at bookrichardnow.com. Let’s build something people want to be part of.