A Few (More) Grey Hairs

Being more chronologically advanced than most in the recruitment sector and with some of the disadvantages which go with it (eg: dealing with yet another change in technology, when moving every body part is now accompanied by its own unique sound), there are, nevertheless, some definite benefits to longevity.

FOR SOME BACKGROUND

I joined the recruitment industry in 1994, just after the `recession we had to have’ (thanks PK) and was schooled by some hardened recruiters. People who valued every opportunity and understood the importance of customer care. Since those days, we have enjoyed an unprecedented run of economic growth, interspersed with the occasional slowdown e.g. Asian Financial Crisis, Y2K, Dot Com crash in 2000, the Global Financial Crisis, so it hasn’t all been smooth sailing.

OVER THE PAST 26 YEARS…

There have been some really significant technological changes made to how the recruitment function is performed; but some core things remain the same – people (whether they be job seekers/clients or customers) will remember being treated with respect and dignity in very trying and difficult times. When there isn’t unprecedented growth. At times this may come at a financial cost (you sleep better though), however the long-term benefits are real and definable.

AS THE MARKET HAS SLOWED DOWN TO A VIRTUAL STANDSTILL IN 2020…

This has become more and more apparent. For example, I have recently successfully worked with a line manager who last gave me a job order in the late 1990’s, after he has returned to Sydney. I now have two recruitment assignments in their final stages for contacts I originally met with, in the early 2000’s and I have not worked with for at least 5 years. So what? There are a number of recruiters in the market, but what these line managers appreciate, is the consistency of service I will provide and most importantly, that I am still actively working in my specialist market.

My point is, hang tough, the times are undoubtedly difficult but if you remain patient and true to your core values of exceptional and genuine service delivery; more prosperous ( and predictable) times will return and you will be surprised how long people’s memories can be.

*This is written from a recruiter’s perspective, but I believe remains true for anyone in a client/customer-facing role.