My Journey To Recruitment #6
Like every other teenager, turning 20 was a bit of a wake-up call for me. Having decided to reject the traditional university route after a short-lived, less than engaging spell at Sixth Form, I spent my later teen years trying to figure out what my true calling was. Returning from a season abroad, and rejecting a management positon from my previous employer it was then I decided to make money my motive and choose a role that not only complimented my skills but gave me a challenge.
I’d pretty much grown up around recruitment due to both my parents working within the industry, though never did I see myself following in their footsteps. My mum had made a name for herself working for some of the well-known agencies the industry had to offer before setting up her own consultancy, and my dad too was very successful. I had witnessed both the highs and lows of the industry through them, though never did it cross my mind that I too could follow suit, never mind be any good at it. After a lot of research and a heart to heart, my mum confirmed she certainly saw potential in me and that I had certainly had some of the skills required so I decided to go for it. I tidied up my CV, bought a new tie and started applying for roles, it was only after a few final stage knock backs when my lack of experience was the only thing letting me down that Westray Recruitment Consultants was suggested to me. And yes my mum did happen to work there, though who better to vouch for the company than someone who has no reason to lie to me? And whilst people may think I sailed right in and got a job on the spot, I can confirm I had to go through the exact same, if not more testing process, as everyone else.
With a job offer on the table a few days later, I looked forward to getting stuck in, and whilst I couldn’t prepare myself for the intense training I had to undertake, it was this knowledge that stuck with me and still does to this day. From swallowing my nerves and going for it on the phones, to channelling my inner Jordan Belfort and sending out Wolf of Wall Street vibes to all who would listen, to say I’d found my calling was an understatement.
Fast forward 9 months later, and I’m still here! After numerous placements, my candidate database is continually growing and my industry connections rising. I feel challenged, worthy and above all successful. Turning 21 today and being in charge of my own earnings and the work mentality that goes with that, is a stark difference to how I was pre-recruitment where I was continually trying to figure myself out. I’m glad I’m in a position where I get to go to work every day, put on a decent suit and know I got here on my own merits with no degree or easy rides. That is the beauty of recruitment after all, an industry that welcomes anyone with a strong work ethic and determination to succeed.