6 things I’ve learned from our newest employees

Recruiting and onboarding new staff is a time intensive and expensive exercise.  I know this first hand, having recruited thousands of roles over the years, both for my clients and for our team at Optimum. 

Devoting time to write position descriptions and job advertisements, screen resumes, conduct interviews, prepare employment contracts, procure the tools of trade, and deliver training is a massive investment. 

A key element of my role, in conjunction with our senior team, is to lay the foundations for the success of new employees.  We run training sessions, provide on the job coaching, and make introductions to our customers… we do what we can to help every new team member thrive.

But it isn’t all one-way. 

I’m constantly learning from new employees, and I love it.  Over the past six months, we’ve hired several new team members (in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Perth) with varying experience levels and I’m fortunate to have learned several things including:

The value of different industry experience

Elise van der Heyde has spent her career working in financial services, running teams, and leading major change programs.  Although recruitment and HR consulting is a new industry for her, she has brought a wealth of subject matter expertise, a network of contacts, and a million questions as to why we do things the way we do… the latter reminding me to always be open to seeking a better way.  She has led far larger teams and worked in larger companies than I, so I look forward to continuing to learn from Elise.

The value of general knowledge

Murray Roache is a young man of high intellect with an enviable base of general knowledge.  The combination of these attributes allows him to engage with a broad audience.  Despite being in his mid-twenties, Murray can connect with people far older, by knowledgably discussing topics of interest to them.  It is a remarkable talent, that has reminded me to constantly seek out information and expand my knowledge beyond what most interests me.

The value of networking

Phoebe Hirsch has taught me how quickly someone can build a network.  Phoebe hasn’t lived in Brisbane for long, yet it seems she knows everyone!  She is a referral generating machine with an infectious enthusiasm and determination to help others.  She has reminded me of the importance of networking and taking responsibility to proactively engage with others. 

The value of “doers”

Lily Bourn is a doer.  Not only did she display this during the job interview, but her psychometric results also indicate this, as do her work references.  Lily has worked with us for one week.  In that time, she has embraced the training with gusto, whilst jumping straight into “on-the-job” tasks.  Clearly, she wants to know how we operate as quickly as possible, so she can get on with it.  She has reminded me that although some people prefer step-by-step learning, others want to run hard from the start.  The sooner we get her up to speed, then get out of the way, the better.

The value of running your own business

I’ve worked with Matt Heath for only a few days, and I’ve already I’ve learned the value of his experience running a small business.  He is new to the recruitment sector, yet it is clear his business experience will be a massive advantage to him over our competitors.  He is commercially minded and understands how critical it is to delight customers and deliver on promises.  He just “gets it”. 

The value of top-quality people

Robbie MacLeod is what I’d call a “top bloke”.  I worked with Robbie about 8 years ago, and by the gift of fate, he is back working with us.  Robbie is one of the best human beings on the planet, a true gentleman, and an immensely talented Recruiter.  Working with Robbie again, has taught me that good people are worth their weight in gold, and it has reminded me to never fully close the door on great team members when they leave – you might get the opportunity to work with them again.

Thanks Elise, Murray, Phoebe, Matt, Lily and Robbie for the lessons so far.  I’m looking forward to continuing to learn from you all and helping you succeed in your roles.

Ben Walsh
General Manager, Recruitment

Ben is General Manager – Recruitment at Optimum Consulting Group, an Australian employment advisory firm.  He has been actively recruiting and managing teams for twenty years, with industry experience gained in Australia, Canada and Ireland.