Debunking Outsourcing Myths In The Face of AI
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South Africa's greatest export? It's people! Connect with South African business owners around the world with The Lekker Network: https://thelekkernetwork.com/
Shaun Smith, founder of Outsource SA Solutions and Blossom Technology, talks to John Watson about the evolving landscape of talent acquisition and outsourcing in the tech industry in 2025.
Shaun emphasizes the importance of prioritizing quality over cost in hiring, the role of AI in enhancing outsourcing models, and the misconceptions surrounding outsourcing. He also explores the dynamics of nearshore and offshore teams, the onboarding process for outsourced resources, and strategies for managing talent retention in a competitive market.
Shaun also discusses the importance of building strong relationships in business, the foundational role of values, and the impact of mentorship on personal and professional growth. He highlights the opportunities in the outsourcing sector between the UK and South Africa, and shares his experiences with The Lekker Network, emphasizing the value of collaboration and support among members.
Connect with Shaun Smith here:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaunsmithoutsourcing/
Shaun Smith, founder of Outsource SA Solutions and Blossom Technology, talks to John Watson about the evolving landscape of talent acquisition and outsourcing in the tech industry in 2025.
Shaun emphasizes the importance of prioritizing quality over cost in hiring, the role of AI in enhancing outsourcing models, and the misconceptions surrounding outsourcing. He also explores the dynamics of nearshore and offshore teams, the onboarding process for outsourced resources, and strategies for managing talent retention in a competitive market.
Shaun also discusses the importance of building strong relationships in business, the foundational role of values, and the impact of mentorship on personal and professional growth. He highlights the opportunities in the outsourcing sector between the UK and South Africa, and shares his experiences with The Lekker Network, emphasizing the value of collaboration and support among members.
Connect with Shaun Smith here:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaunsmithoutsourcing/
Chapters
- 00:00 Preview and Introduction
- 01:00 Navigating Talent Acquisition in 2025
- 03:07 Current Outsourcing Projects
- 04:54 Does Every Tech Company Need An Outsource Component?
- 06:00 Understanding Fractional Leadership
- 07:19 What is AI's Impact on Outsourcing Models?
- 11:00 Slowing Down While AI Speeds Up
- 11:52 Debunking Outsourcing Myth About Quality and Expertise
- 15:39 What's The Difference Between Nearshore vs Offshore Teams?
- 17:06 Onboarding New Outsourced Teams
- 19:23 Managing Talent Retention in Outsourcing
- 24:01 Being A Value Protector
- 26:20 The Power of Good Relationships
- 27:27 Why Impact Is So Importance
- 28:24 The Power Of A Good Mentor
- 32:03 Opportunities in the UK and South Africa
- 34:31 The Lekker Network Experience So Far
- 41:38 What Does The Right Place Feel Like?
