Gem Spotlight - tessa o’neill at gembridge
Tessa O’Neill became a part of Team Gembridge in early February 2024. She joins us with a diverse background in both recruitment and hospitality management. Read on to learn about her love of nature, food and connecting with others as a recruiter.
Tessa is a Recruitment Consultant at Gembridge
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Hello, I'm Tessa! I'm originally from a tiny town in regional Victoria called Torrumbarry. With a population of around 200 people, we were outnumbered by animals and stunning bushlands. Even though I've officially converted to a city slicker, I jump at any opportunity to get out in nature. Camping, fishing and sitting by the bonfire will always hold a special place in my heart!
What are you passionate about?
I absolutely love food! I spend a lot of time exploring different cuisines, cooking for friends and eating out. I am also a big advocate for wellness and mindfulness, so you can often find me practicing yoga, journaling or meditating!
What did you dream of being when you were a child?
Growing up I genuinely thought I was going to be the next Britney Spears. I used to call my friends, serenade them and request feedback (positive only). Unfortunately, it turns out that I can't sing very well, so it's lucky I found my love for recruitment!
What was your very first job?
My very first job was one that you wouldn't come across these days... I worked part time at our local Video Ezy! I was the envy of my classmates, getting early access to new releases and being paid to watch movies.
What’s the best thing about your current role?
The myriad of opportunities to learn about the amazing efforts of those working within the 'for purpose' sector. It's great working alongside like-minded value driven people and, better yet, connecting them with their next dream job!
Recruitment can be hard. How do you stay focused, motivated, and driven?
Fostering connections is a part of recruitment that I find so rewarding! I remind myself that at the end of the day, whether client or candidate, you're chatting to an individual who will have their own array of passions, hobbies and interests! So I love to ask out of the box questions that lead to meaningful conversations. It's a great way to connect with people AND get recommendations for books, movies, recipes, etc.
What is another profession that you think would be cool to work in, but probably never would?
Throughout my time at uni I volunteered at a few community radio stations, producing and presenting live on-air shows. Though I didn't follow a pathway towards the radio broadcasting industry, I still dream of one day releasing my own podcast (probably about food).
Thanks, Tessa, for letting us learn more about you. Welcome to Team Gembridge!