This talk will delve into the intimate realities of the candidate experience, powered by first-hand accounts and data analysis collected via the 'What the Candidate says' podcast series and interviews with candidates, hiring managers and recruiters. We'll explore the impact of the recent mass layoffs, scrutinize job market trends, inspect industry requirements, hiring processes, and salary expectations. 

We'll also discuss the psychological nuances of job searching and the significance of empathy refining the candidate experience. The presentation aims to create a well-rounded, transparent picture of what candidates face in today's tech job market, inspiring leaders to revamp hiring practices for a more inclusive, candidate-friendly future