Why Recruitment Needs People Who Need People

My professional journey started back in college in Goa, where I was a freelance journalist. Journalism was my first experience with forging connections, both in writing and in person. I learned quickly that there’s a unique power in building rapport with people, even if only briefly. It was my love for engaging with people that soon led me into radio, a field that relies on genuine interaction. In both of these roles, I found joy in meeting individuals from different backgrounds and learning their stories, a joy that has shaped every role I’ve held since.

After my start in journalism and radio, I found myself on an entirely new path: the world of luxury hospitality. For over a decade, I worked across some of the most esteemed 5-star properties in India, where I met hundreds of remarkable people, from first-time travellers to the well-heeled elite. What I valued most about these experiences were the human connections, which ran deeper than titles or backgrounds. Each interaction—whether a quick exchange or an enduring connection—offered me something to learn. In an industry where first impressions are everything, I had the privilege of creating lasting memories for guests, which taught me that every interaction counts, and it reminded me of the impact we can have when we’re fully present.

As I transitioned into recruitment, I quickly realised that the field demands the same dedication to connection. Executive Search is more than filling roles—it’s about understanding who people are, what they’re passionate about, and where they truly fit. The nuances in people’s journeys matter, and the better we connect with those we interview, the better we can find a place where their strengths will shine. I’ve often thought back to those early days in journalism and radio, where connecting with people was about curiosity and empathy. Now, as a recruiter, these qualities help me understand candidates’ aspirations, often well beyond what’s written on a CV.

By the way, today, I’m also a part-time adventure traveller, leading tours with No Footprints around the vibrant city of Mumbai. This passion for exploration allows me to bring together people from around the world, each with unique perspectives. Whether I’m guiding a seasoned traveller or someone new to the city, I’ve found that building a connection goes beyond giving information; it’s about making people feel they belong.

Reflecting on two decades of connecting with people, I realise that what has shaped me most aren’t my titles—it’s the relationships I’ve built along the way. Each one has added something invaluable to my life, and it’s why I feel recruitment, at its core, is a field that requires people who genuinely need people. These human connections not only support our professional growth but also sustain our purpose and drive.

In a world moving towards automation and AI, it’s easy to feel that recruitment, like many fields, could become impersonal. But there’s a quality in personal connection that no machine can replicate. When we need people, it’s because we recognise the unique perspectives they bring, the insights they share, and the unexpected ways they enrich our lives. So here’s to another year of celebrating the people in my life—past, present, and future—and to a career that’s taught me the immeasurable value of genuine connection. And if you’ve made it this far and like me, you're passionate about connecting with people and are ready to make an impact, MRG is expanding and looking for dynamic individuals to join our team. Who knows, this could be the perfect fit for you.