In a recent LinkedIn post, Hung Lee explores the intersection of Chinese New Year traditions and modern Talent Acquisition principles. Lee uses the occasion of the Year of the Fire Horse to frame a discussion around ten fundamental principles he articulates, drawing a parallel between ancient wisdom and contemporary recruiting challenges.
Lee introduces the concept with a festive greeting, noting the significance of the approaching Chinese New Year. He then presents his framework, which he attributes to “the Great Sage of the Western Peaks.” This unique approach frames recruitment not just as a logistical process, but as one imbued with deeper, almost philosophical, underpinnings.
“Tomorrow is the Chinese New Year and we welcome the Year of the Fire Horse. How does this super Yang year impact Talent Acquisition? That’s right, I’ve written an essay for you all about it 🤣”
Deconstructing the Ten Principles for TA
Hung Lee outlines ten distinct principles that, while rooted in traditional concepts, offer a fresh perspective on talent acquisition. These principles are presented as core tenets for understanding and executing effective recruiting strategies in the current landscape.
The Cosmic Reset and Household as a Temple
The first two principles, “The Cosmic Reset” and “The Household as a Temple,” suggest a need for periodic fundamental reevaluation within an organization’s talent strategy. As Hung Lee implies, approaching the hiring process with the sanctity and order of a temple can elevate its perceived importance and execution. This framing encourages a mindful and structured approach to building a team, treating each hire as a significant contribution to the organizational ‘household’.
Energetic Economy and Sympathetic Magic
Further into his list, Lee touches upon “The Energetic Economy of Offerings” and “The Sympathetic Magic of Words.” These concepts, according to Hung Lee, speak to the reciprocal nature of recruitment and the power of communication. The ‘offerings’ can be interpreted as the value proposition extended to candidates, while the ‘sympathetic magic of words’ highlights how language used in job descriptions, outreach, and interviews can attract or repel talent. Hung Lee points out the subtle, yet powerful, influence of how candidates perceive the opportunities and how they are spoken to throughout the process.
“The Sympathetic Magic of Words”
Lee’s post also mentions other principles such as “The Ancestral Continuum,” “The Debt Cycle That Must Be Closed,” “The Reunion of the Living,” “The Opening of the Doors,” and “The Lighting of the Lanterns.” Each of these, in Hung Lee’s view, offers a metaphorical lens through which to examine different facets of the recruitment lifecycle, from long-term talent planning to the final onboarding and integration of new hires.
Broader Industry Context
Beyond the core principles, Hung Lee also provides a snapshot of what else is happening in the recruiting and HR tech space. He highlights upcoming events and discussions on critical topics like AI in hiring, talent operations, and making TA teams faster. This contextual information, shared within his newsletter, demonstrates Lee’s commitment to providing a comprehensive overview of the industry.
“AI in Hiring Report 2026, now out and downloadable in the link below”
Hung Lee’s post serves as a unique bridge between cultural tradition and professional practice. By framing talent acquisition through the lens of ancient principles, he encourages a deeper reflection on the art and science of bringing people into organizations. The discussion invites readers to consider how these timeless concepts can be applied to navigate the complexities of modern recruiting.
The post concludes by encouraging engagement, asking, “Let me know what you think!” This open invitation underscores Lee’s collaborative approach to sharing insights within the professional community.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Hung Lee on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on February 16, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →