Franklin Bracken on hiring
From MELT U Speaker Series Ep. 84: Frank Bracken CEO of Foot Locker · · Vince Thompson
“The new litmus test in hiring is what candidates did to improve themselves during COVID-19 shutdowns—whether they learned new skills or helped others—because entitlement will lead to disappointment in today's competitive global economy.”
On , Franklin Bracken, President & Director at FOOT LOCKER INC, spoke about hiring during MELT U Speaker Series Ep. 84: Frank Bracken CEO of Foot Locker on Vince Thompson.
About Franklin Bracken
In a September 2021 appearance on the MELT U Speaker Series, Frank Bracken, then CEO of Foot Locker, discussed the company's response to the COVID-19 pandemic and broader business trends. He described the pandemic as a period that demonstrated "the premium value of flexibility," noting that Foot Locker was able to close stores in 48 hours and ramp up online operations. Bracken stated that the "biggest lesson" from the pandemic was the importance of corporate culture and relationships. He also observed a shift toward casual work-from-home attire and sneaker culture, which he said benefited Foot Locker's business. Bracken offered advice on career development and hiring, asserting that emotional intelligence is a "key differentiator" and that the new "litmus test in hiring" is what candidates did to improve themselves during pandemic shutdowns. He described business as "the rejection business," where "no" often means "not yet," and emphasized the value of versatility, perseverance, and storytelling. Bracken also commented on the NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) changes in college sports, calling them "the biggest business opportunity in 50 years."