#54- People Over Process: How Doug Burris Helps Startups Build Teams That Drive Success

Episode Summary

In this episode of the Digital Recruiter Podcast, Clark Wilcox interviews Doug Burris, founder of DBI 2 Consulting, a talent acquisition consultancy for startups and growth-stage companies. Doug shares his journey from growing up around recruiting to building a career rooted in helping businesses scale effectively. With over 30 years of experience, Doug reflects on how the evolution of tools like LinkedIn and job boards has transformed recruiting, but emphasizes that successful hiring remains a people-driven process.

Doug discusses his passion for working with startups, inspired by his experience at an education technology company that introduced him to the high-stakes, high-impact world of entrepreneurial hiring. Recognizing that cash-strapped startups can’t always afford traditional agency fees, Doug developed a flat-rate model to provide cost-effective recruitment solutions while helping founders identify the right talent for their unique growth stages. His approach is driven by understanding both the technical and cultural fit needed for startup success.

Throughout the conversation, Doug highlights the importance of authenticity, taking action, and embracing challenges as key principles for both recruiters and job seekers. Whether navigating career transitions or scaling a business, Doug underscores the power of relationship-building, effective communication, and a focus on long-term growth. His insights offer valuable lessons for recruiters, employers, and anyone looking to align purpose with their work.

Doug’s Bio

Doug has 25+ years of Talent Acquisition experience and launched DBI2 Consulting in 2011 to answer the needs of startups and scale-up companies.  Doug has worked across the spectrum of talent acquisition and organizational evolution including work with 10 person startups to Fortune 500 companies in industries including EdTech, FinTech, SportsTech, Renewable Energy, Construction, Fueling Services, Manufacturing and Telecommunications.  

Doug has focused on career disciplines including Sales and Marketing, Business Operations, Human Resources, Software Development, and Finance & Accounting.  

Doug serves as an advisor to multiple pre-revenue Educational Technology companies, dedicates time monthly to developing and supporting post-high school preparedness programs, and advising High School and College Students on career preparedness.

Doug and his wife Jerilynn, both graduates of the University of Kansas, have 3 incredible children, and 3 mischievous dogs and have lived in Kansas City for 30+ years.

 

You can find Doug on LinkedIn or check out  https://www.dbi2consulting.com/my-story

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