Almost two years ago, I made the switch from fundraiser to recruiter and joined the Gembridge team. I often get asked about that transition, so I’ve answered some of the common questions that reflect parts of the journey.
Jenni at Ethical Jobs Conference, 2019
(during her first few weeks at Gembridge)
What has surprised you the most about recruitment?
The constant learning curve.
From day one, there’s been so much to learn about recruitment. I have seen a lot of highs, lows, and market changes in a short space of time (I did start at the onset of a global pandemic!). But not only that, I’m also constantly learning about different organisations, people, human behaviour and interaction, team dynamics and organisational culture, new industries… plus continually refining my interviewing, influencing, searching and consulting skills.
What is your favourite thing about recruitment?
Meeting people. Through this job, I have the privilege to meet so many diverse, brilliant people that I wouldn’t normally get the opportunity to come into contact with.
I have loved learning about such a diverse range of purposeful organisations. There are so many incredible NFPs creating positive social and environmental impact. It’s difficult not to be inspired.
The placement buzz. Playing a small part in someone’s career journey – knowing you have helped someone land a great opportunity that will help them grow, develop and further their career, as well as helping organisation’s secure a great candidate that will help achieve their business objectives. It’s so so rewarding. That win-win feeling is wonderful.
What part of being a recruiter do you enjoy the least?
The ‘sorry you’ve been unsuccessful’ phone call! Delivering bad news is never easy, no matter how many times you do it. Although it’s hard, it’s important and we deal with many amazing candidates who appreciate the call and the feedback.
Jenni with her boys, Jack & Lucas
Are you ever tempted to return to fundraising? Or is there a role that you have recruited for and thought, mmm maybe I should throw my hat in the ring?
Although there have been many fundraising roles that I’ve worked on where I thought ‘wow, what a role!’, I haven’t wanted to throw my hat in the ring. I know that’s not my career path now,. I’m actually just excited about finding the right person for the role. There have been roles where I thought ‘that would have been perfect for me 5 years ago’, but nothing has tempted me to make a return to fundraising now. I haven’t questioned my decision to make the career change, which is a nice feeling.
What do you miss about being a fundraiser?
I’d have to say the donors. One of the things I loved most about fundraising was connecting with donors. I enjoyed being that person in the middle, connecting a passionate donor who wanted to make a difference in the world, with a cause that was close to their heart. In some ways, recruiting is similar, connecting people with their career aspirations.
Another thing I loved was seeing programs in action. There was something amazing about meeting with program staff and seeing and hearing about the work they were doing and the direct impact it was having on lives. I miss that too, although I’m lucky enough to be talking to fundraisers all the time, so I still get to hear about a lot of positive and impactful work.
What new skills have your learned so far along your recruitment journey?
Many of the skills I’d acquired through my career in fundraising were transferable and absolutely necessary in recruitment too – things like communication, marketing, project management, relationship building, time management and attention to detail.
I’ve learnt that you’ll wear many hats as a recruiter (advisor, counsellor, researcher, advocate, negotiator) and there is a diverse range of skills needed, plus the industry experience in the NFP sector has been very helpful.
Some of the skills I’ve learned or developed along the journey so far have been the consulting skills, negotiation, resilience, and perseverance. I’ve also found that empathy and great listening skills are vital.
What is your key advice for anyone wishing to transfer their skills and experience into a new sector?
If it’s been on your mind, give it a go!
Be open-minded and willing to be coached.
Get out of your comfort zone.
So much that you’ve learnt is relevant. Even though you’re transitioning to a new sector, you have a lot to offer.
There’s a lot to grasp in a new career or industry, it can take some time before things start to ‘click’.