We believe that retaining talented employees is paramount for employers looking to compete within their market or attract new, up-and-coming recruits. So, not only is it important to have great employee retention, you also need to create an environment and company culture where people are proud to work.
We spoke with Catrina Short, Senior Consultant in our Business Services team, to discover why she enjoys working with us and has chosen to commit to our company long-term. As of January 2019, Catrina has been a valued member of our staff for over 16 years.
What has encouraged you to stay with Change for such a long time?
I’ve been asked this question a lot over the years, and I always find it difficult to put into words, but I think it’s what my dad always used to say, “if it’s not broken don’t fix it” and “the grass is not always greener on the other side”.
For me this is so true, I really enjoy what I do and have had the support from the wider business to do it and do it well. I’ve always had a good team around me during my years at Change, and that has been a real driver for me. The culture of the business has also played a major part.
What changes have you seen during your time with the company?
Sixteen years is a long time, and of course I’ve seen lots of change within the business, but that change has been for the better as I’ve watched the company grow into what it is today.
I’ve witnessed a management buyout in 2006, acquisition by Paul Atkinson of the Taranata Group in 2017, been through three office moves and seen many people join us, and others move on throughout the years.
I’ve also seen many changes in the marketplace as I’ve mainly spent my time recruiting within the Contact Centre industry.
What are the benefits of working with Change?
For me, the most important benefit would be the people. You spend more time with your work colleagues than you do with your family, so it’s important to have the right mix of people. And, I can honestly say that I’ve worked with some of the best recruiters in the industry and have made many long term friendships during my time at Change.
How has Change supported your career?
I’ve never been the type of person who is motivated by a job title or managing others. I’m at my best when I’m helping my candidates and clients. Change has always supported this way of working.
There’s no pressure to develop up the ladder if it isn’t something you want. However, on the other hand, the support is also there if that’s the road you want to take.
How would you describe Change’s culture?
I would say it’s an open, professional and mature environment where you are treated like an adult and are trusted.
Where do you see Change going in the next 5 to 10 years?
As Change is now part of the Taranata Group, I only see good things ahead. I believe the company will grow both in terms of headcount and client base, making us a formidable contender in the recruitment industry.
What are your future career plans?
At the moment, I’ve changed focus and am currently building the Business Services desk. So, going forward, my main aim will be to successfully launch and develop this desk.
What advice would you have for someone thinking about entering recruitment?
I started my career in the recruitment industry in an administration role. So, I’ve always felt that support roles were the best way to learn about the industry before becoming an actual recruiter.
Becoming a recruiter, though, is a different kettle of fish and my advice to anyone thinking of a career within the industry would be to make sure they are good with people, patient, persistent, resilient, focussed, target driven and enjoy working within the sales industry as these are all attributes you’ll need to run a successful desk.
What makes Change a great place to work?
In my opinion, the best things about working with Change are:
- The freedom to run your desk the way you want
- Being accountable for your success or failure
- Being treated like an adult
- Having the support of your colleagues and leadership team
- And, the overall culture and people.
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