Finding Passion in the Unexpected
Recruiting quite literally fell into my lap, but it quickly turned into something I'm deeply passionate about. I love the human aspect of it; getting to know people, understanding what drives them, and helping them find roles that align with their goals. It's like being a professional matchmaker, bridging the gap between candidates and clients. What really keeps me invested is being able to support those who've recently faced hardships, whether it's a layoff, a life change, or a tough career moment and doing everything I can to help them get back on track. There's nothing more fulfilling than being a part of someone's comeback story.
Driven by Discipline
Most people don't know that I once competed in a women's bikini bodybuilding competition, which was an incredible challenge, but definitely a one-time thing! I realized I love good food way too much to keep up with that lifestyle. Before that, I was a competitive gymnast until I was 15, training for level 8. The discipline and work ethic I developed during those years still stick with me today.
Life Beyond Work
In my free time, I stay busy as a proud mom of two daughters who are heavily involved in all-star cheer. I love being hands-on, whether it's assisting with coaching tumbling classes or serving on our Cheer Elite Booster Board. I also volunteer at local Mud Hens and Walleye games. When I'm not cheering in front of the stage, I enjoy working out, spending quality time with my family, and unwinding with a relaxing pool day whenever I get the chance.
Recruiting with Heart (and Strategy)
What really stands out about our management team is the strong communication and open-door culture. It's easy to ask questions and get immediate support or feedback, which makes navigating any situation feel smooth and collaborative. There's also a tremendous amount of trust placed in each employee, creating a sense of ownership and confidence in our work. On top of that, the flexibility we're given allows for a healthy work-life balance, which makes a huge difference in both productivity and overall well-being.
What I Look for in a Candidate
The most important qualities I look for in a candidate go beyond just checking boxes on a résumé. Of course, having a strong and relevant skill set, applicable experience, or clearly transferable skills is essential. These are the foundational pieces that show someone can technically do the job.
But what truly stands out to me are the intangible traits: a genuine sense of drive, ambition, and the desire to grow both personally and professionally. I look for candidates who are eager to contribute to a team, open to learning, and ready to take ownership of their role. I pay close attention to how candidates talk about their past experiences, how they approach problem-solving, and whether they see change as a setback or an opportunity.
It's the mindset that often makes the biggest difference, someone who shows up with a positive attitude, curiosity, and a willingness to take initiative tends to thrive, even in challenging or evolving environments. Those qualities, combined with the right technical fit, are what ultimately lead to successful, long-term placements.
What I Look for in a Client
For me, the most important quality I look for in a client who's hiring is responsiveness and clarity. When a client treats hiring with a sense of urgency, is willing to jump on a quick call, and can clearly walk me through the role, expectations, and what they're truly looking for, it makes all the difference. It helps me move quickly and confidently, and it shows they value the partnership just as much as I do.
Staying Ahead of the Curve
I stay informed about the latest trends and industry changes by regularly reviewing LinkedIn news and industry updates. I engage in conversations with candidates to understand what's currently happening within their organizations and consult with clients to learn about their future plans and hiring needs. Additionally, I prioritize learning new technologies and staying up-to-date on advancements like AI in recruitment.
Why ITS Stands Out
What truly sets Integrated Talent Strategies (ITS) apart from our competitors is the fact that we are not a franchise. This independence gives us a level of flexibility and reach that many other agencies simply don't have. We're able to recruit and build relationships with clients across all 50 states and even into Mexico, without being restricted by territorial boundaries or franchise limitations.
While many other firms are tied to specific regions or face obstacles when working outside of their designated areas, we're able to seamlessly staff coast to coast. ITS was originally founded with a strong focus on engineering recruitment, which remains a core strength of ours. However, over the years, we've evolved significantly and now specialize in a wide range of placements across multiple industries, including manufacturing, construction, IT, finance, healthcare, and more. This growth reflects our commitment to adapting with the market and offering comprehensive staffing solutions to meet the ever-changing needs of our clients.
Whether you're a company in need of top-tier talent or a candidate searching for your next opportunity, ITS has the resources, reach, and expertise to make the right connection.
Let's Connect
Although I'm relatively new to ITS, I bring with me six years of valuable recruiting experience that I'm excited to apply in this role. I truly appreciate you taking the time to read through this and get to know more about who I am and what drives me professionally. Building meaningful connections and helping both clients and candidates find the perfect fit is something I'm passionate about. If you're interested in exploring how I can support your hiring needs or career goals, please feel free to reach out. I'd welcome the opportunity to connect, learn more about your unique situation, and discuss how we can work together to achieve your goals.
Stay tuned for more engaging profiles and insights in our ongoing spotlight series. Whether you are a job seeker navigating this complex job market or an employer seeking top talent, this series aims to provide valuable information and highlight the experts who can help you achieve your goals.
Don't miss out on future editions! Follow us on social media to stay informed and gain valuable insights into the dynamic world of recruitment. Together, we can shape the future of careers and empower professionals to thrive.
Contact us today, and we'll help you achieve the success you deserve!