Inside My Recruiting World
One question I get a lot is, “What’s it like to be an executive recruiter?” As such, I would like to share my thoughts with you on this past year working as a recruiter in the WDC insurance industry. Here are some of my takeaways:
Fortune Favors the Bold: In 2023, I decided to put myself out there on social media. I wrote a weekly blog ( Rob’s Rants ), published short videos ( The One Minute Bullet ), and totally revamped my website. I took a chance putting myself out there, but the response has been extraordinary. I get calls, texts, and emails every day from clients and candidates alike commenting and providing their thoughts and ideas on what is important to them. This feedback fuels my business. Keep it coming.
Invest in Yourself: Early in 2023, I ended my longtime relationship with my social media consultants. They helped me immensely, but it was time to hit the refresh button. Instead of hiring another consultant, I decided to learn the marketing side of the business myself. Sure, it took me a few months to learn everything…LinkedIn, YouTube, Canva, WordPress, CoVideo, and the various digital media tools, but I learned what I needed to know and now I do everything myself. It’s a creative process that allows me to present myself in a much more authentic way.
The Two Minute Rule: I borrowed this one from Ray Dalio. I purchased a two-minute sand hourglass timer (the old-fashioned kind) that now sits on my desk. I use it to ensure that I give all my clients and candidates in a group setting at least two minutes of uninterrupted talk time when they interact with me. I have found our conversations to be much more engaging, productive, and creative. Thank you, Ray.
Chance Favors the Prepared Mind: I started scheduling 15 minutes of preparation time in front of my coaching calls and then prior to all client and candidate Zoom calls this year. What a difference. With the right preparation and organization, I find myself finishing meetings in less time, saving both party’s valuable time. In fact, I am now scheduling calls in blocks of 15 minutes instead of the usual 30 – 45 minutes. It works!
I Love my Clients: I have a handful of clients who get most of my attention (and the best candidates). Why? Because they are like family. Our interactions are rich with ideas and constructive feedback. Professionally, I do love them. I can’t imagine the day when I finally retire and have to bid them farewell. Helping my clients acquire, develop, and retain top insurance talent is my way of helping them build and grow their organizations. It’s good for them. It’s even better for the community.
Everyone has a Story: In the recruiting business, I work with candidates from a variety of socioeconomic and educational backgrounds. I work with CSRs making $50k living in rural West Virginia to COOs making $300k+ in Bethesda, MD. It makes no difference; everyone has a story to tell. Every personal story is unique.
I get fired up when I work with hard working single parents doing whatever it takes to find their place in the insurance world developing their skills and seeking more opportunity to provide a better life for their families. It’s inspiring to see these workers holding their heads high, working hard, and doing whatever it takes to survive and thrive in this difficult world we all live in today.
Trust & Respect Do Matter: I terminated relationships with several long-term clients this year on the basis of a lack of trust and respect. If a client ignores my calls or emails, I take note. If they don’t provide me with feedback within 48 hours of a candidate interview, I take further note. If it happens on a consistent basis, I terminate the relationship. Sadly, three unfortunate client firms that desperately needed top talent met this unhappy end this year. I wish them well.
Time is Your Best Friend and Worst Enemy: My firm was 20 years old this past February. Seems like the harder I work, the more time flies by. I learned this past year to take occasional breaks and enjoy time with my family more. Funny thing is that these necessary breaks rejuvenated me and provided me with the necessary time to reflect on old ways and then innovate with new and improved ways to run by business. I need more breaks!
Focus, Focus, Focus: This was the first year I did not take on any international assignments for clients. International travel and exotic locations can be fun, but being around family and reestablishing my client relationships on a personal basis has made all the difference this year.
Thanks for reading and, as always, I look forward to your continued emails, texts, and calls with your thoughts and ideas.
Rob
