VC Voices: ‘Avoid tech that promises too much’ says allygatr’s Visser

HR tech has the potential to transform the world of work for the better. That’s the view of Benjamin Visser, a recruitment and HR enthusiast.

He tells UNLEASH: “People are the heart of every successful organization” and “by leveraging technology… we [can] drive positive change within the HR ecosystem”.

This passion for the HR space motivated Visser to found not just his own recruitment tech company – Searchtalent – but also allygatr, a VC fund exclusively for the HR tech space.

allygatr does more than just invest in startups, the fund supports them to grow, innovate and succeed. 

Visser is on a mission to make allygatr a hub of HR transformation – and really help revolutionize how people and organizations work.

allygatr has 22 companies its portfolio currently – but of the standout startups are heynanny and talentlobby.

Benjamin Visser, founder and CEO, allygatr.

Both are in the early stages but are already booming and making a real difference in employee benefits and talent acquisition in Europe.

UNLEASH is thrilled to welcome Visser as our second VC Voice in our new Editorial interview series.

It can be tough for HR leaders to figure out which is the right HR tech for their organization (and their people), particularly in the crowded HR tech space.

In this exclusive UNLEASH interview, Visser candidly shares his tech advice for HR leaders, as well as his perspectives on the future of HR tech (and why its important to not overhype certain technologies).

Allie Nawrat: How did you get into investing? What is one piece of advice you would give your younger self?

Benjamin Visser: I entered the world of investing through my passion for the HR industry and my extensive experience in recruiting.

After successfully building Searchtalent, which I bootstrapped completely, I recognized the immense potential and power within the HR tech sector.

The initial investments of allygatr came from the profits and earnings generated by Searchtalent.

The advice I’d give to my younger self is embrace the journey.

The path to success is filled with challenges, but each obstacle is an opportunity for growth and learning. Trust the process and stay committed to your vision.

AN: What do you look for in a startup pitch? What makes a company really stand out in the overcrowded HR tech space? 

BV: In a startup pitch, clarity, precision, and enthusiasm are key. Founders should effectively communicate their vision and products/services. Describing the problem they aim to solve, and how their solution stands out is crucial.

Startups stand out by offering a truly unique solution, showing deep understanding of the market, and demonstrating traction with potential customers.

A good question to ask is always: “Would I be a customer in my own businesses?”

AN: HR leaders are the key customers of HR tech. What should HR leaders look out for when buying tech, what should they avoid, and why?

BV: HR leaders should prioritize solutions genuinely enhancing the employee experience and organizational efficiency.

Look for technologies that seamlessly integrate with existing workflows, have a strong track record of successful implementations, and offer scalability.

Avoid tech that promises too much without tangible evidence of value, and make sure solutions align with your organization’s specific needs, otherwise it might lead to wasted time and resources.

AN: What are the most exciting innovations on the horizon for HR tech? Is there a technology that the world would be better without? 

BV: For me the most exciting innovations include AI-powered employee engagement platforms, personalized learning solutions, and tools that facilitate remote work collaboration.

But AI-only hiring processes, while alluring, should be approached cautiously!

Depending solely on AI for hiring decisions risks biased outcomes if not meticulously calibrated, potentially neglecting the significance of human judgment and qualitative evaluation within the recruitment process.

As for technologies the world could do without, it’s not so much about eliminating entire technologies but being cautious about their implementation.

The misuse of deepfake technology in HR could have detrimental effects on trust and authenticity. Misleading communication and manipulative practices could harm organizational culture and employee relations.

AN: Who inspires you – and why?

BV: In a world bustling with diverse personalities and interests, it’s truly remarkable how the simplest of individuals can ignite the flames of inspiration within us.

It’s the enthusiasts, the dreamers, and the doers who wholeheartedly embrace their passions that inspire me.

Whether it’s the neighbor who tends to their garden with unwavering devotion, the artist who weaves magic onto canvas, or the chef who meticulously assembles flavors to create a culinary masterpiece, their dedication resonates with a kind of authenticity that is hard to ignore.

There’s something captivating about witnessing someone pour their heart and soul into their craft, unburdened by the mundane and driven solely by their fervor.

These ordinary individuals, driven by an extraordinary passion, teach me that greatness isn’t solely reserved for the famous or the exceptional. It resides in the everyday people who dare to chase their dreams.

UNLEASH | VC Voices is a monthly Editorial interview series where we profile leading investors in the HR tech and future of work space. You can catch up on the first VC Voice here, and stay tuned to see who next month’s voice will be!

Startups at UNLEASH World

Startups are a core part of the UNLEASH ecosystem. Alumni winners of our prestigious startup competitions include Peakon (now part of Workday), OneTeam, Talent Alpha and Hour One. 

UNLEASH is thrilled that Visser will be on the judging panel for the UNLEASH World 2023 Startup Award. Want to join him at the show? It’s not too late to grab your ticket!