In thinking about the focus of my first contribution to Kennedy Information’s RecruitingTrends.com, I kept returning to how critical the notion of a “foundation” is in defining one’s success as a recruiter. Especially in the recruiting industry, it can take years to shape and build a positive foundation, yet within minutes one questionable action can destroy it.

Shaping one’s personal foundation – or brand, if you will – can lead to the ultimate success for you as a recruiter trying to lure top talent to your organization.

Build trust by using personal character
Our industry is very quick to judge, and is now quite adept at using the latest online tools – blogs, email, etc. – to communicate (albeit, broadcast) its views and opinions within minutes. If you and your company’s decisions are made with a “do the right thing” mentality, you will continue to build trust with candidates and the industry at large. You will not have to worry about that one negative that can ruin any or all of the goodwill you have developed through the years. Solid personal character is critical to building a true relationship with your candidates, internal clients and teammates. In my eyes trust is the most critical piece in being or becoming a successful recruitment professional.

Practice humility (all the time)
I must admit one of the things that bothers me the most within the recruiting industry is my perception of its lack of humility. Be humble with everything you do. The contributions you make are more powerful than the words you use to describe them. Be proud of your individual experience and accomplishments, but you will be respected if you show humility among your peers.

To use a professional football analogy, take a look at the difference in perception of Marvin Harrison and Terrell Owens. Here are two extremely gifted wide receivers that both play at a level above their competition. Marvin Harrison is currently enjoying his first Super Bowl ring but continues to communicate the selfless message that teams win championships and not individuals, regardless of their individual talents. As a result of the humility he portrays, he is a world champion respected by his teammates, opponents, fans, and the NFL community in general. On the other hand, Terrell Owens, who is viewed as a selfish player only interested in personal goals and statistics, is still trying to figure out why the teams he plays on always come up empty, even with the tremendous talent they’ve assembled.

Use your knowledge and experience
Trust, integrity and humility are all traits of a good person and a great recruiting professional. With that said, one still needs knowledge, experience and opportunity to become a top tier professional in the industry.

It is always a pleasure to meet folks who openly share their knowledge and experience with others. This allows us all to continue to drive value to the recruiting community and become more strategic within our organizations.