Career Defining Moments – Part 5 “Maintaining Positivity”

This is the 5^th article in my Career Defining Moments series.  Check out Part 1 “Stepping Up”, Part 2 “Saying Yes”, Part 3 “Pushing Through”, and Part 4 “The Best Work of Your Career”. 

Observing the departure of colleagues with whom we have collaborated extensively during on-the-job interactions, engaged in office banter, shared lunch conversations, and perhaps even maintained social contact outside of working hours can be a challenging experience.  We spend a big chunk of our waking hours working with others, so seeing teammates depart, can be demotivating.  But it doesn’t need to be – and Rutherford Kennedy demonstrates this. 

A positive mindset 

Every workplace needs a Rutherford—his intelligence, articulate communication, and mega-professionalism contribute significantly to providing an exceptional customer experience (see his fantastic Google Reviews below).  Within our office, he adds a touch of cheekiness, wit, and an infectious sense of fun, making him one of the most popular individuals in the company. 

Rather than succumbing to demotivation during staff transitions, Rutherford displays a positive mindset and willingness to help. He not only embraces new team members but actively contributes to their integration by offering guidance, training, and constructive feedback. In addition, he consistently supports management during challenging decision-making processes. 

Such a proactive and constructive approach is rare. During organisational changes, individuals may be tempted to disengage, point fingers at management, or even foster disruptive behaviour. However, Rutherford distinguishes himself by actively seeking opportunities to assist both new and existing teammates, showcase performance standards, and provide valuable feedback to help improve operations. 

It comes as no surprise that Rutherford’s reputation precedes him—his referral to join Optimum originated from a colleague within our company who had the privilege of working with him previously. His positive and personalised approach extends beyond internal interactions; it is his superpower when dealing with customers, contributing to an exceptional and memorable customer experience. 

The power of amazing customer service 

You only need to read a sample of the recent Google Reviews about Rutherford to give you a sense for how well he is regarded by his customers. 

“First time going through Optimum Consulting to apply for a job and Rutherford did an amazing job! He has been continuously supportive and always kept me up to date with my job search! When I got the job he has always touched base with me to see how I’m going and I really appreciated it!” 

——————————– 

“From the moment I got a phone screening call, to then meeting up with Rutherford and now I’ve started my first week of work. I think he really knew the client and what they were looking for in the person to hire, as it matched both my skill set as well as my personality and values. Even after the hiring and signing of contracts, Rutherford was kind enough to follow up with me. Super grateful.” 

——————————– 

“Rutherford Kennedy is an exceptional recruitment specialist. As a candidate for a new role, Rutherford kept me informed every step of the way, going out of his way to phone or text me (even after hours) to see how I went with the interview, or how I was getting on in the job.” 

——————————– 

“Rutherford also had a very detailed understanding of the project and organisation to which he was referring me; this helped me get an understanding of how I could best apply my skills and experience. I’ve found this quality to be pretty scarce in other recruiters. Not Rutherford. He is incredibly insightful and absolutely dedicated to the best interests of his candidates and their respective organisations. I would highly recommend him.” 

——————————– 

2024 and beyond 

Rutherford has only been in recruitment for a relatively short time, and already he has made a big impact.  I’m excited to see what he will achieve in 2024 and beyond, knowing his customers will continue to value his genuine care and personal approach, leading to an expanding network through referrals. 

Every workplace needs someone like Rutherford, and I’m delighted he is part of the Optimum Consulting Group family.  

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.