We recently had the pleasure of sitting down for an interview with Nick Manzi, the newest Account Manager at ROI in our New Jersey office. Nick brings a fresh perspective and a wealth of experience to our team, and we were excited to learn more about his background, his approach to account management, and his vision for the future at ROI. Join us as we dive into Nick’s journey, his insights on the industry, and what he aims to achieve in his new role.

Why did you start working with ROI and when?

I never anticipated a career in staffing until midway through my senior year at Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia. It all started when I attended a career fair, where I spoke with representatives from various companies. Among them was a staffing firm. Although I had heard of staffing firms before, I didn’t know much about them. The idea of working in staffing intrigued me, but the job they offered was too far from where I planned to live after graduation in North Jersey.

Determined to explore this newfound interest, I began looking for staffing firms in the North Jersey area and applied to a few, including Resource Options. Fortunately, this decision led me to where I am today.

What initially attracted me to staffing was the opportunity to help people find jobs, which aligns perfectly with my social nature. I love talking to people, whether they’re clients or candidates. The process of matching the right candidate with the right job felt like solving a rewarding puzzle.

I’ve been with Resource Options for a little over a year now—my one-year anniversary was on June 5th. Reflecting on my journey, I realize that this role perfectly combines my passion for helping others with my enjoyment of social interactions.

How is ROI different than other staffing firms?

I can’t speak firsthand about other staffing firms since I’ve only worked for Resource Options, but I can share what I’ve heard from candidates in the industry. Many have expressed frustration with other firms, citing issues like being ghosted or feeling that the recruiters they interacted with were not knowledgeable about the jobs they were pitching.

At Resource Options, we genuinely strive to build strong relationships with our candidates. Our focus isn’t just on filling positions but on ensuring that candidates find the right fit for their skills and career goals. We take great care in placing our candidates in roles that are suitable for them and avoid putting them in unfavorable situations.

Maintaining a good relationship throughout the hiring process and even after placement is a priority for us. Personally, I keep in touch with many of the people I’ve placed. Through our conversations, I get to know them better, understanding their plans and personal circumstances. For instance, if a candidate mentions they’re taking their kid to practice, I follow up on how their child is doing in our next conversation. It’s about keeping things light and creating a genuine connection.

Moreover, unlike many staffing firms that operate remotely, we work locally. Our office is based in New Jersey, and everyone in our team is from the area. This proximity allows us to meet our clients and candidates in person whenever necessary. It strengthens our relationships and ensures we can provide the best support and service possible.

How do you maintain professional relationships with clients?

On the client side, it’s important to avoid the temptation to push every conversation or meeting towards closing a deal. Instead, focus on building genuine relationships. Sometimes, you might meet at a networking event and have a casual conversation. This interaction might remain casual for six months to a year, evolving into a friendly acquaintance.

Once this casual acquaintance relationship is established, when a need arises, you’ll be the first person they think of. They’ll remember, “Oh yeah, that guy I always talk to from Resource Options—I’ll give him a call. He’s a nice guy.” Not everything needs to be about pushing for a deal. Being genuine and approachable often leads to long-term business opportunities.

Can you share a significant career milestone or achievement that you’re particularly proud of?

On May 8th, just before my one-year anniversary, I was thrilled to be promoted to Account Manager—a significant career milestone and hopefully the first of many. I believe this promotion was well-deserved and reflects my hard work and dedication.

Additionally, two of my coworkers were also promoted, which speaks volumes about our team’s talent and the positive direction we’re heading in. These well-deserved promotions indicate that we have the right people on board and are making great progress together. This milestone is a testament to our collective efforts and the bright future ahead.

How have you made a difference in someone’s life while in this position?

I initially reached out to a candidate about a year ago, inquiring if he was suitable for a specific position. At that time, he was employed and mentioned that he had previously worked with Resource Options. He appreciated the contact, and although he wasn’t looking for a job, we stayed in touch. He would refer friends and colleagues to me if they were seeking new opportunities.

A few months later, I contacted him again, asking if he knew anyone for a new role I had. He referred someone, but shortly after, he reached out to inform me that his plant, where he worked as a wastewater operator, was shutting down, and he was getting laid off.

We met and successfully placed him, not just in any role, but in a supervisory position, which aligned with his career goals. We also managed to significantly increase his salary. He was incredibly appreciative and remains a great guy. To this day, we keep in touch. I often visit his site, bringing donuts or coffee, and make it a point to meet with him.

What is the best piece of career advice you have ever received? From whom?

I can’t remember the exact quote, but it goes something like this: “Just move on, keep moving forward.”

In this industry, there will be times when things don’t go as planned. You might place someone in a job they don’t like, and they quit. Or they like the job but aren’t performing well and get fired. Sometimes, companies face budget cuts and have to let people go, including your candidates. There are countless scenarios that can happen, and you just have to keep moving forward.

Don’t dwell too much on the things you can’t change. Instead, focus on what you can control, like your activities, client meetings, and candidate interviews. You can manage these aspects, but you can’t always control the outcomes. So, concentrate on what you can drive and let go of the rest.

Chris Kuppens, our regional manager, often emphasizes this point. And a big shout out to my fellow account manager, Ashton Bardzell, for always helping me stay in that mindset. It’s about staying focused on what you can control and not getting bogged down by what you can’t.

Interesting Facts About Nick

• Twin sister named Carly
• Completed first triathlon
• Gone skydiving many times
• Theater has been a major part of life – live Broadway shows (Cinderella, Bye Bye Birdie, Fiddler on the Roof, Guys and Dolls)
• Favorite food – Sushi

Want to connect with Nick Manzi on LinkedIn? Contact him today!

About Resource Options Inc.

(ROI) is a full-service construction, design, environmental services staffing, and emergency response 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.