🧠 Why Critical Thinking Matters Now More Than Ever

by Alex Funkhouser

Don’t let false idols and groupthink steer your choices—learn to evaluate ideas with clarity and purpose.

In today’s hyper-connected world, it’s wild how often we still get stuck in echo chambers—surrounded by the same opinions, hearing the same narratives on repeat, and, without realizing it, putting false idols and so-called experts on pedestals. It’s not just frustrating; it’s actually dangerous. Whether it’s blindly trusting a favorite podcast host or falling into the grip of a modern-day cult, these patterns can creep into our lives in ways we don’t even notice.

Amanda Montell’s book Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism dives deep into how language can subtly manipulate us into unwavering loyalty. And here’s the kicker: Even if you think, “That could never be me,” the reality is more complicated. The same human needs that draw people to cults—belonging, certainty, and guidance—show up in smaller, less obvious ways in our everyday lives, from our workplaces to our personal circles.

Learn to separate charm from truth. To navigate a world rife with misinformation and charismatic false idols, we need a robust framework for developing critical thinking skills and broadening our horizons.

So how do we avoid falling into these traps? It starts with strengthening our critical thinking, opening ourselves up to different perspectives, and embracing a little intellectual humility. Breaking free from echo chambers isn’t easy, but it’s worth it—for our minds and for the world around us.

Read the complete Fast Company article BY Tony Martignetti: https://www.fastcompany.com/91250834/why-critical-thinking-matters-now-more-than-ever

💵 3 Things You Need To Know About Employee Stock Options

by Alex Funkhouser

If options are part of your compensation package, it’s worth your while to get familiar with how they work generally, as well as how your company handles stock options specifically.

Forms of compensation like restricted stock units and performance shares—whereby executives receive a batch of stock from their companies after meeting a performance target—have some key advantages relative to employee stock options.

One way to mitigate the risk of exercising options at precisely the wrong time is to exercise a portion of a grant at a time. Much like dollar-cost averaging into a stock or fund, conducting multiple exercises of multiple lots of options can help ensure that an employee exercises at a variety of price points.

They’re more straightforward than stock options, and the associated taxes are less complex and often better aligned with gains. That said, employee stock options can be a key source of wealth for some households. That means if options are part of your compensation package, it’s worth your while to get familiar with how they work generally, as well as how your company handles stock options specifically.

Read the complete Fast Company article BY Associated Press: https://www.fastcompany.com/91253700/3-things-you-need-to-know-about-employee-stock-options

🕺 Empower Careers: Remote Talent Sourcer!

by Alex Funkhouser

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SherlockTalent is looking for IT Talent Sourcers to work remotely for our Miami Beach office. Selected candidate will identify candidates for our recruitment team, help with back-office responsibilities including scheduling interviews, working on background checks, and creating offers of employment. The idea candidate must have a strong customer service orientation, be detail oriented and understand the importance of urgency in the recruiting process.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct independent sourcing via social recruiting, networking, job postings, cold calls, etc.
• Work closely with recruiters and hiring managers to understand their needs in order to identify the right talent; ensure goals are met.
• Manage a consistent, high volume flow of qualified candidates through active and passive sourcing methods.
• Develop pipeline of candidates in niche areas as determined by market needs and business strategies.
• Identify recruiting sources, assess new talent and develop leading-edge methods to attract diverse talent.
• Schedule and track candidates throughout hiring process in our applicant tracking system.
• Work closely with recruiting team to share new applicants and ensure follow-up with candidates.
• Participate in Job Fairs representing SherlockTalent • Assist with scheduling phone and onsite interviews.
• File applications and perform background checks on candidates.
• Answer phones and greet employees/candidates.
• Operate independently with minimal day-to-day guidance from management • Multi-task effectively- working quickly and accurately in a fast-paced work environment.
• Juggle multiple priorities with finesse.
• Conduct candidate reference checks striving to raise our hiring bar with each new recruit.
• Track goals, metrics and performance of the hiring cycle; regularly communicate status and results.
• Propose and implement ongoing innovations and improvements to the recruitment process.
• Maintain a high level of professionalism and confidentiality at all times.

Preferred Skills:

• Must possess a high degree of integrity, reliability and trustworthiness.
• Bachelor’s Degree preferred • 1-2 years in a similar role Recruiting Coordinator/Sourcer
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Strong computer skills in MS Excel, Word, PowerPoint and ability to learn new computer applications quickly.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills • Passion for outstanding customer service.

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🥂 Welcome 2025! Happy New Year from Alex Funkhouser

by Alex Funkhouser

Happy New Year to our incredible community!

2025 is (almost) here, and with it comes fresh opportunities, challenges, and successes. At SherlockTalent, we’re gearing up for another year of connecting brilliant talent with innovative companies, helping shape careers, and driving forward the tech and business communities we’re so passionate about.

2024 was a year of building momentum—projects delivered, teams strengthened, and goals achieved. But as we look ahead, it’s not just about continuing the work; it’s about amplifying the impact. The year ahead is ripe with potential, and together, we’re ready to seize it. Whether you’re navigating the next step in your career or searching for that perfect addition to your team, we’re here to guide, support, and celebrate your success every step of the way.

Here’s to the exciting road ahead—a year where we’ll continue breaking barriers, embracing innovation, and thriving together. From all of us at SherlockTalent, thank you for being part of our story. Let’s make 2025 a year to remember.

Warm wishes for a prosperous and inspiring year,
Alex Funkhouser
SherlockTalent