Welcome to our “Get to Know Advanced RPO” series. Want to know what makes Advanced RPO special? It’s our people, and you’ll get to meet them, one at a time.
Introducing Abbe Castillo. Abbe grew up playing various musical instruments and participated in her high school’s marching band. In her spare time, she’d be found nestled into a good book and this habit remains. After attending college and receiving a communications degree, Abbe worked in banking, before venturing into the HR field. It was a family member recommendation that spurred her interest into HR. Abbe is a Senior Recruiter at Advanced RPO. Abbe is regarded by her peers due to her impeccable industry knowledge, technical acumen and caring attitude. Even after so many years in recruiting, she still has a rough time breaking the news to declined applicants. Abbe is the “helpdesk” when it comes to backend iCIMS system questions and is always willing to step in wherever needed.
Let’s hear what Abbe has to say about working at Advanced RPO.
What’s wonderful about working for Advanced RPO & why would someone want to work here?
This is my first remote job and at first I was a little unsure of how it would go. Now three years later, I have grown to love it! I have some structure to my day, but a good amount of freedom to set my own schedule to get work done. Managers are very supportive and responsive when I have a question or concern and my coworkers are great! I’ve been able to meet quite a few in person and build connections even with those I don’t work with on a daily basis.
What do you enjoy about recruiting? What drew you to this field?
Originally, I was pointed in the direction of HR by a family member. My first job in an HR department was in recruiting under a fantastic boss and recruiting just stuck. My favorite part is extending job offers.
What do you think makes an exceptional RPO recruiter?
Tenacity and flexibility. The most successful recruiters build a great rapport with clients and cement it by being a resource and partner, rather than a vendor.
How do you see the recruitment marketplace changing right now? What do you think is one of the most important trends in recruiting?
The low national unemployment rate means that it is perhaps ever more important for recruiters to maintain a personal touch in the recruiting process to differentiate themselves. As far as recruiting trends, there is so much more technology available now! The trick is making sure your technology works together so it results in greater efficiency. Advanced RPO’s leaders are always exploring new tools and how to better leverage our existing tools.
What advice do you have for someone who is looking for a new job?
Have someone review your resume and cover letter before you send in an application – even better if that person has experience reviewing resumes as a manager or recruiter. Make use of job alerts that will notify you of new job postings meeting your search criteria. Get your resume or profile on some major sites, such as LinkedIn, Indeed, CareerBuilder, and Monster. Last, but not least, let people know you’re seeking – your next job might come through someone you already know!
Why would someone want to work with Advanced RPO?
Advanced RPO offers freedom to set up your home office in a way that’s most comfortable and productive for you. You may have the opportunity to gain experience in different industries and types of companies without having to change jobs.
Life is crazy. What keeps you sane? How do you recharge?
Music! For over ten years I have sung in a local cappella chamber choir. For most of that time, I have also designed most of the marketing materials, such as brochures, posters, and advertisements. Another fun side benefit is that my mom also sings in the choir so I get to see her at least weekly.
Lastly, any quotes, mantras or inspiration for our readers?
“You get what you get, and you don’t throw a fit.” I have no idea where it originated, but my husband used it a lot with the kids when they were younger. In a world where everything is on-demand or made exactly how you want it, it’s valuable to learn how to deal when things don’t go as you envisioned.
