Katie has had a fantastic start to her Ambition career and was recently a top performer after less than a year in the business. We managed to prise her away from her desk and phone for five minutes to speak about her first year in recruitment.
Can you explain to me your role within the Tech team and what you specialise in?
I recruit specifically within IT Infrastructure, so anything from support level, including service desk, desktop support and field support up to engineering level across systems, networks, cloud and security.
You are about to complete your first 12 months with Ambition. How would you describe your year?
It’s probably been one of the quickest years of my life! I started in purely a resourcing role and was only candidate focused but I then transitioned into more of an Account Management position. And as it stands today, I’m now a full 360-degree recruiter on the Infrastructure desk. So it’s been a big learning curve and I definitely didn’t think I would be where I am now, 12 months ago!
What’s the best part of your job?
Honestly, and at the risk of sounding cliché, I love helping people find their perfect job. When I catch up with people after placing them in a role that they love, it’s really rewarding and it drives me to get out of the bed in the morning.
We’ve recently recruited several new colleagues to the Bootcamp. What advice would you give to the guys?
I’ll pass on the same advice that I was given when I first joined the business and that is, ‘put the work in early’. The first six months to a year are hard because you don’t really feel like you’re getting anywhere but I’m now reaping the rewards of my hard work early on. So, work hard, be organised and always do what you say you’re going to do!
Obviously, the world of Technology is progressing at an exponential rate. Are there any trends you are noticing that are changing the workplace for both job seekers and employers?
Security! This is a massive growth area and hot topic at the moment so candidates that have an interest in this area should research how to get into this space, or even better speak to me about potential opportunities.
Also, there are so many organisations who are adopting cloud technology now, so roles in this space are a continuing trend.
What do you think it takes to become a successful recruiter?
I would say, just be normal. Which sounds easier than it is! Being yourself, empathetic and someone that people can relate to is key though. Put yourself in the client or candidate’s shoes and your communications with them will be much smoother.
You were a top performer for the month of May, which is a great achievement. What do you hope to achieve in the next 12 months?
Continuing to build a successful desk, evolve my existing relationships and making new ones with people in my industry. I think it’s good to know as many people as you can and it will help me, help others in the future.
How do you spend your time when you’re not recruiting?
I like to keep myself healthy, I have recently joined F45 along with a few other people from our office which is great fun, and a good way to start the day. When I’m not working I love to travel to new places, and I’m currently looking forward to my next trip to Vietnam.
I also love trying new foods but have yet to find something more enjoyable than a pineapple pizza (controversial I know!)
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
“Take pride in your work and whatever you do, give it your best shot”
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