You will more than likely be asked this question, but how do you respond? Tell your story. Give your “why.” Don't just make something up; share a real scenario. Share who you are
My why: I love talking to people and building relationships. The recruiting profession has allowed me use my passion to impact people’s lives. Here's my response; my story:
I recently spoke to one of the candidates I placed about the time we worked together, and reflect on how our working relationship was the catalyst that truly solidified my why.
She had just gotten laid off from a project that December. The holidays were approaching, and the stress of providing for her family weighed heavy.
I was working with a local stealth startup company that only wanted to hire the best of the best, and their interview process was intense. They had panel interviews as well as live whiteboard testing interviews in front of the entire team.
With the relationship we'd built, I was able to identify why she was perfect for the job, and reassured her that her experience was aligned with what they were seeking. We just had to make sure what I already knew about her would stand out to them.
I reformatted her resume so that her experience and skillset were highlighted and the verbiage was properly aligned with the job opportunity.
We communicated constantly throughout the application process, and she was so excited when called for the first interview. She was excited, but nervous. Again, I reassured her, and assisted her with preparation by walking her through the entire process and providing interview tips.
The company was very impressed and called her in for the next round of interviews. Her nerves were shot after completing her whiteboard testing and her last round of interviews. We had prepared, performed, and now the dreaded “wait.”
I knew I’d get feedback quickly because of the relationship I’d built with the hiring team. I was able to be the one to call her and ask, “Are you sitting down?” I shared not only were they extremely impressed, but they’d made an offer for her to join their team as a Senior Business Analyst. The icing on the cake- I was able to negotiate a 10K salary increase from the position that had laid her off. What a blessing!
I remember her being overcome by emotions. She immediately started crying on the phone and said, “You just don’t know how much this changed my life. Thank you so, so much!” It was such a touching experience that every time I tell the story I get chills. Realizing that I wasn’t just a recruiter; I was a Career Coach- so to speak. And I really had what it took to impact not just her life, but the lives of many who entrusted me with their care.
She eventually moved up at the company and was promoted to Director of Project Management. I knew I’d placed her with a “right fit,” company, but seeing her blossom over her career has been so rewarding and fulfilling.
Recruiting isn’t an easy job, but this is why I love it!
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