What Four Years at Source One Hospitality Has Really Taugh Me.
And it has nothing to do with recruiting…
I really thought I didn’t know much about recruiting when I first took this job, but the truth is I had already been doing it my entire career. Recruiting is simply about relationships and the time, energy and care that you choose to invest in them. For me, that philosophy is what has made me successful in not only my hospitality career, but also as a daughter, friend, wife, and most importantly, a mother. Heading into year 5 and 100+ placements later…. my network and relationships are the foundation of everything I do.
Recently I was asked what the term “headhunter” means to me, and honestly I have never even used that word. I truly identify as a matchmaker, and take the title very seriously. The goal is always to ensure the candidates and clients that have put their trust in me, find their next home or crucial leader. To do this, it goes beyond a LinkedIn message or reading a job description. For my clients, it’s acting as an extension of their brand, culture and voice. For the candidates, it’s understanding their needs, wants and goals in a new role. And believe me, when that match happens there is no feeling like it and it most certainly never gets old.
A Full Circle Moment
Just this week, I helped connect a James Beard Award-winning chef in Minneapolis with a Director of Service candidate in Atlanta. The candidate and I had been in touch since last summer, and after a previous placement with another recruiter didn't work out, finding the right long-term opportunity was especially important. At the same time, I had previously placed a General Manager within the chef's hospitality group. When he called to discuss what he was looking for in a Director role, I immediately knew who he needed to meet. What started as separate conversations months apart quickly became a meaningful introduction. The two have now met and seeing that connection come to life has been incredibly exciting and I cannot wait to see what these two will accomplish together in their home market and beyond!
These are the moments that remind me why relationships matter. The placement itself is important, but it's the trust built over months - or sometimes years - that makes those opportunities possible.
The Community Always Gives Back
What has surprised me is how much time, energy and care my network has given back to me and continues to do so every day. Utilizing social media has had a huge impact on how I can connect with hospitality professionals. It has proven to be an environment where candidates feel comfortable and uncommitted to just reach out casually. I love being able to share content that lets my followers are able to see what jobs I am working on, the amazing restaurants I’m dining at, or even when I get a chance… to let loose with my mom friends 😊. It has evolved into an incredibly supportive community with unlimited introductions to candidates and clients all around the country, in which I am incredibly grateful for.
Small World, Big Connections
Hospitality is a very big industry, but a very small world after all. I am always absolutely amazed how we are all separated by 1 degree or even less sometimes. Looking ahead to year five and beyond, there are still so many connections and relationships to be made, and that motivates me every day. If we haven’t met yet, I look forward to doing so soon and helping you “find your nich.”
