Madison Altman’s journey into recruiting began unexpectedly, but it quickly became a career she’s passionate about. Since making the switch in 2021, she’s focused on building meaningful relationships and helping people find opportunities that align with their skills and goals. In this Q&A, Madison shares her experiences in recruitment, offering practical advice for candidates seeking temporary roles and emphasizing the importance of communication and connection in building lasting relationships with both clients and contractors.
Q: How did you get started in recruiting?
A: I kind of stumbled into recruiting, as I think most do. I was working in property management and knew it wasn’t something I wanted to do long term. I posted in my sorority alumni Facebook group and a sister reached out to me about recruiting. That was in 2021, and I haven’t looked back!
Q: What do you like most about your job?
A: I love being a positive force in someone’s life. It’s incredibly rewarding to help someone secure a well-deserved pay raise or find a life-changing job. For example, I worked with a contractor who was open about her challenges as a working mother. Through our partnership, she found a temporary role that not only supported her family but also led to a permanent placement. She’s been with the company for two years now and seeing her thrive is a constant reminder of why I love what I do.
Q: What sets your approach to recruiting apart?
A: I enjoy truly getting to know my candidates, beyond their professional backgrounds. Each person has a fascinating story, and I think that human connection is essential.
Q: What motivates you to stay in this field?
A: The excitement of making that offer phone call never gets old. Knowing you’ve helped someone secure a new position always feels like a win.
Q: What advice would you give to candidates seeking temporary roles?
A: List every assignment on your resume, no matter how short, to highlight your versatility. Also, include every software you’ve used, even if briefly. Make the most of your time when you’re not on assignment by earning new certifications or learning new skills, which can increase your visibility to recruiters and improve your chances of landing future opportunities.
Q: How do you maintain strong connections with both clients and contractors?
A: Communication is key! Delivering difficult news with compassion, like when an assignment ends, helps foster trust. Treating people with kindness and honesty goes a long way in this business. I regularly check in with both parties to ensure everything is running smoothly and to share feedback. It helps strengthen the relationship on both sides.
Q: What are the most rewarding and challenging aspects of working with temporary contractors?
A: The most rewarding part is helping people gain new skills, earn more, or work closer to home. The hardest part is having tough but necessary conversations when assignments end.
Q: How can temporary contractors make the most of short-term opportunities?
A: Reliability, positivity, and strong performance can open doors, even in short-term roles. A good relationship with a manager can lead to future opportunities, such as being rehired for other roles, gaining a valuable reference, or expanding your network. It’s also important for clients to treat contractors like direct hires, as it fosters stronger connections and mutual respect, benefiting both parties in the long run.
Want to keep up with what opportunities Madison is hiring for? Click here to connect with her on Linkedin!
