My #FrazerJonesJourney – Abigail Benham
A discovery by surprise
I fell into recruitment thanks to one of my mum’s friends. At first, I didn’t know what it was, and I even thought the process was like working in a job centre. My career started in a boutique agency by St Paul’s, following an old-school style of recruitment. Looking back, it was the best way to learn. The next five years flew by, leaving me with solid HR recruitment experience.
‘The old-school style of recruitment was the best way to learn.’
What makes Frazer Jones special
The opportunities are endless and the core values operate across the whole business. Frazer Jones stands out as being collaborative, agile and authentic experts. I have never walked into an agency where every consultant knows everything about their market. We work in an adult environment where people are here because they want to be and not because they have to.
I collaborate with the most infectious people – everyone is a team player, embracing the highs and lows. Micromanagement is inexistent; we all have a voice regardless of age and experience.
Rewards are based on performance, meaning you are rewarded for hard work. It’s not purely monetary but around development opportunities. The more you perform, the more exposure you get at running your own events.
‘People are here because they want to be and not because they have to.’
A journey of consistent growth
The leadership team is young and growth is consistent in all markets. With a supportive network of encouraging and collaborative specialists, hierarchy doesn’t exist. Everyone has their duties and their own ladder of growth.
My role requires a lot of adrenaline as I go at a million miles per hour. This can be challenging though very rewarding. Matching people with roles that will make them happy is extremely powerful. What I find the most rewarding is watching growth. When you place someone as an HR Recruiter, then Manager and five years later as a Director.
On a personal level, I am most proud of taking the step up to a leader position as an Associate Director in just over a year. I didn’t think I wanted this route, but as a self-motivated person I can transfer this skillset to help others, lead and lead people to their dream careers. I am also proud of helping build out the fintech practice and ensuring expertise is distinguished in space. I value that no matter your age if you want it, you can succeed.
‘I value that no matter your age if you want it, you can succeed.’
Food for thought
If you are starting out in recruitment, to do well, you don’t necessarily need to love sales but love people. It’s about wanting to make a difference and helping out your favourite brand or your favourite charity. You mustn’t let emotions get to you or punish yourself if things go wrong, as you can’t control people. Live in the moment and embrace every aspect of the journey – like being on a rollercoaster. Lastly, just do it! You will live many experiences and make the most amazing friends from different backgrounds and walks of life, reuniting as recruiters.
‘It’s about wanting to make a difference and helping out your favourite brand or your favourite charity.’
If you’re interested in a career in HR search and recruitment, please do get in touch.
We’re looking forward to hearing from you.