In this episode of the Nonprofit Leadership Podcast, Dr. Rob Harter speaks with Steve Cadigan, talent strategist, author of Workquake, and LinkedIn’s first Chief HR Officer. Steve shares how the employer-employee relationship has changed dramatically in recent years, especially as AI, remote work, frequent career changes, and shifting expectations around purpose and flexibility continue to reshape the workplace.
Steve explains why nonprofit leaders can no longer rely on traditional ideas of long-term retention or job security. Instead, he encourages leaders to offer “career security” by helping employees grow, learn, and become better prepared for an uncertain future. For nonprofits, this shift creates a powerful opportunity to attract mission-driven talent, build stronger alumni relationships, redesign roles for shorter talent cycles, and create cultures where people want to contribute deeply—even if they do not stay forever.
Key Topics Include:
- Why the “workquake” is changing how leaders recruit, retain, and develop talent
- The difference between job security and career security
- How nonprofit leaders can build stronger talent strategies in a short-tenure workplace
- Why employees are increasingly loyal to learning, growth, and purpose
- How nonprofits can attract people in career transition through “tour of duty” roles
- The value of alumni communities and maintaining relationships with former employees
- Why reverse mentoring can help younger employees contribute, grow, and stay engaged
Mentioned in This Episode:
- Steve Cadigan’s website: https://stevecadigan.com
- Steve Cadigan’s book, Workquake: https://stevecadigan.com/workquake/
- Steve Cardigan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cadigan/
This Episode is Sponsored By:
Links to Resources:
- Interested in Leadership and Life Coaching? Visit Rob’s website: RobHarter.com
- Find us on YouTube: Nonprofit Leadership Podcast YouTube Channel
- Suggestions for the show? Email us at nonprofitleadershippodcast@gmail.com
- Request a sample coaching session: Email Rob at rob@robharter.com
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