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50 mins
What really makes someone the right hire? In this episode of Get the Manager, Al DeBerry and Raluca Leibowitz dive into the hiring process and the qualities that can make or break a great employee.
With decades of HR experience, Raluca shares her perspective on what to look for beyond a resume—from personality, work ethic, integrity, and communication to cultural fit and a candidate’s genuine interest in the organization. They discuss the importance of being on time, making a strong first impression, preparing for an interview, and simply being yourself.
The conversation also explores internal promotions, salary versus hourly roles, employee trust, workplace culture, referrals, interview processes, and the growing role of AI in hiring and resumes.
Plus, the episode wraps with a Spotlight Karen of the Week and a conversation about handling difficult moments professionally—even when you've just lost your job.
Episode 3:
Hiring the Right People: Culture, Character, & Finding the Right Fit
Episode 2:
The Power of Hospitality: Leadership, Events, & Creating Unforgettable Experiences
What does it take to create an exceptional customer experience, build a strong team, and make every event memorable?
On this episode of Get the Manager, Al DeBerry and Raluca Leibowitz welcome Monica Leibowitz, a sales and events expert with more than 20 years of experience in hospitality and event planning.
Monica shares how growing up around hospitality shaped her career, from managing a bed and breakfast to working in catering, events, and large-scale experiences. She discusses her servant leadership approach, the importance of hiring the right people, building a strong workplace culture, and why communication and empathy are essential when working with both employees and customers.
Episode 1:
Meet You Hosts | The Story Behind Get The Manager
With decades of combined experience in hospitality, management, customer service, and employee relations, Al and Raluca kick off the podcast by sharing their personal career journeys, the mentors who shaped them, and the lessons they've learned along the way.
In this episode, they explore what really makes a great customer and employee experience—and why exceptional service is about more than simply completing a transaction. They introduce the idea of the “Service Champion,” discuss the importance of leadership, culture, kindness, and accountability, and share their approach to handling difficult customers and supporting employees.
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