We had an opportunity to sit down and speak with ROI Recruiter, Robert Abbott this week. Rob is a recruiter in ROI’s Massachusetts Consulting and Design division. In this interview, we discussed why Rob decided to work in the Consulting and Design sector and how he builds relationships with the candidates he places.
1. What made you choose to work for ROI?
I chose ROI because of the people. Each person I interviewed with made me feel comfortable and a part of something special. Every person working for ROI spoke highly on the promotional aspects and the growth opportunities within the company.
Additionally, there is no sense of hierarchy that would make you feel intimidated. From the very first interview until now, everyone spoke with me as an equal. The senior managers are very encouraging and even if I have an off month, they motivate me to meet my personal goals. 
2. What makes ROI different than other recruiting companies?
This is the first recruiting company I have worked for and I have learned there is a process to understanding a candidate. A candidate’s experience and what they want next for their career is not as obvious as you would think. ROI taught me the basics of recruiting my first week, but then sent me off to hone the process so it works well for my candidates, our clients and me.
It is essential to truly know the candidate you are placing and the job they are being placed in for the client. ROI believes in building a relationship with candidates and getting to understand their career goals. In addition, internally, ROI is team oriented. Although we all work individually and have our own personal goals, we set team goals. Everyone works interchangeably and it feels good to be a part of a team that takes pride in helping others succeed.
3. What is your process for matching the perfect candidate to a client?
To match a great candidate with a great client, you must listen. Be thorough, be direct and really listen to what the candidate wants. We do not send out a resume randomly to make a quick placement, we really want to help them. I listen to the aspects they don’t enjoy in their current position, so I don’t place them in the same situation. I get to know them on a personal level and understand their career goals.
Taking good notes is essential to really understanding your candidate. What is most important to them? I always make sure the candidate understands the position thoroughly before I submit their resumes to a job. At times, conversations can go off into different directions, which is where you start to know someone on a personal level. I also consult with senior leadership on candidates. They have years of expertise that I can tap into if I am having a difficult time placing someone.
4. What attracted you to staffing in the consulting and design sector?
My family works in construction, my brother and dad are linemen. I wanted to find a career that combines my passion for business and my background in construction. Recruiting in these sectors feels like the best of both worlds for me and allows me to see things from both sides.
Also, being a recruiter, you are helping candidates navigate their career path rather than selling someone a product or service. It feels more meaningful.
5. What are some interesting things about you? 
I grew up on Cape Cod, so golfing and fishing on the beach are my favorite two hobbies. The Cape Cod culture has a big impact on my life. My entire family lives on Cape Cod and we are all very close. Family is the most important thing to me, and lobster rolls of course!
Are you looking to make a career change? Contact Rob for your next placement!
ABOUT ROI
(ROI) is a full-service construction, design and environmental staffing firm. We provide customized staffing solutions to clients servicing the built and natural environment. Recognized on five different occasions by Inc. Magazine as one of “America’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies”, ROI was founded in 1998 by a group of experienced industry professionals. Our proven ability to deliver highly qualified candidates in a timely fashion has earned us the reputation as a true and lasting business partner with both clients and candidates. www.resourceoptions.com.
