For the first time in 3 years of being a job seeker off and on (as a freelancer/contract worker) Helen has made a considerable dent in my negative impression of the recruitment industry.
I am one of the most skeptical people when it comes to the recruitment industry as a whole.
By nature I am also very difficult to convince that as an entire industry it is little more than monetising people's fears, insecurities and frankly desperation to find paid work.
Helen has done a lot to make a dent in that impression.
She has taken the time to understand what I am looking for not just in terms of my salary expectations or the industry I want to work in but she has found opportunities with companies that align with my values. When you get to a certain point in your career that matters more. She listens intuitively and not just with the intention to reply.
Helen speaks plainly and has clearly not forgotten what it is like to be on the job market. Many recruiters treat candidates like a series of numbers and not feeling human beings. Where recruiters are concerned I wish I could duplicate her across multiple industries because while I'm sure she is one of the busiest people in her field, she has never once made me feel like I need to hurry up and get to the point. Or like she is feeding me through a mass production facility. She's efficient, personable and perhaps most interestingly - she knows what she knows and is very frank about what she does not know.
I think that it is important for people who claim to be specialists to stick to their specialisms. And not be greedy and snatch for any and all opportunities, even if it is only vaguely related to their field. Helen has found that sweet spot. She's confident in it and frankly she should be giving master classes in how to (and how not) to be a recruitment consultant. A few of the other recruiters I've met could learn a thing or two from her.
As a person who gives much credence to unspoken vibes and connection, I vibe very well with Helen professionally I recommend her services unreservedly.