Callum joined the OSA team a year ago and we thought we would share a little of what his role entails and what led him to pursue a career in the recruitment.
If you ever thought there was a ‘typical’ background needed to get into recruitment, Callum’s story will dispel that. Having tried to get into recruitment when he first left school, he was told he needed more life/work experience. So, he started his professional career in financial services before working within football coaching. By the time the opening came up with OSA he had some of that valuable experience and was ready for a move. He brought his organisational and people skills from both positions into the office – probably not having to shout quite as loudly as on the pitch in the new role. Having just hit his one-year anniversary, we are glad to have him in our team.
Callum: “The year has gone really quickly, and I am really enjoying it. Obviously, it’s quite a change from my previous role but everyone has been really supportive.”
Callum works with a wide range of candidates, helping them to find a position that fulfils their aims and ambitions.
So what makes a good recruitment consultant?
Callum: “For me one of the key characteristics is empathy as well as a real desire to want to help people which was definitely what inspired me to want to work within the sector. You’re dealing with people’s emotions as much as anything else so developing an understanding about the candidate and what they’re looking for is key.”
What motivates you in your day-to-day role?
Callum: “It’s very rewarding to support people when they are making really major decisions about their life. A career move or change is a significant step and being able to help individuals make such a key decision is a real responsibility and a kind of privilege. That definitely motivates me and spurs me on.
Why should a candidate come to OSA rather than other agencies?
Callum: “Before I joined OSA I was already aware of its excellent reputation within the sector and it’s a great place to work. There is a genuine desire to help people and I think that sets us apart.”
What would you say to someone who isn’t sure about their next career move?
Callum: “I think the best thing anybody can do if they’re not sure about what they are looking for is to just get in touch and speak with us. We’re here to help and that’s all we really want to do.”
Callum loves the varied nature of his role, one day helping someone make a total career change, the next dealing with some slightly unusual job search criteria.
Callum: “No two days are the same. Sometimes you’re working with a large multi-national company and then an hour later speaking with the CEO of a small organisation. We treat them all the same, but their needs are often very different.”
Behind the scenes, Callum is still involved in the local football scene and plays for Saint Martin’s. When he’s not playing, he doesn’t miss any Bournemouth matches.
