I had a few questions to ask Damian Setiadi, technology consultant in Singapore and he shared his advice for someone just getting into the recruitment industry, how he keeps a work-life balance and why he chose to work at Eames.
1. How did you get into recruitment?
I was previously working in food and beverage while attending university and was seeking a sales position. To have a better understanding, I spoke to multiple friends who worked in various sales businesses and became interested in recruitment after conversing with some of my friends who worked in the field.
2. What is your advice for someone just getting into recruitment?
My advice is to be confident and make as many mistakes as you can early on.
3. What is it about recruitment that has kept you in the industry?
I really enjoy that every day is different and I have the opportunity to improve other people’s lifestyles. Working in a helpful and tight-knitted team really helps as well.
4. What is your proudest moment in your career to date?
The proudest moment I have is when I closed my first deal which was a 360 one. There were multiple objections from the candidate and client but I managed to pull through.
5. What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced in your career so far and how have you overcome that?
The biggest challenged I have faced was starting my recruitment career remotely. I thought it was an impossible task to learn the ropes without any face to face training and prior recruitment experience. To my surprise, the training sessions were very well planned and I was able to pick things up quickly with the help of my team.
6. What is your number 1 secret to success?
"Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage. If you want to conquer fear, do not sit at home and think about it. Go out and get busy."
7. What’s the best career advice you’ve ever been given?
The best career advice I’ve been given is from my manager. He encouraged me to speak and reach out to as many people as I can and if I made any mistakes, he would be there by my side.
8. What are you driven by and how do you stay motivated?
I am driven by the competitiveness of my team and being able to add value by sharing opportunities with candidates and delivering talents to clients.
9. How do you keep a work-life balance?
I try to take breaks throughout the day and I am strict about not entertaining work matters after-hours to be more productive when I am working.
10. Why Eames?
During the interview process, everyone was very transparent and approachable regardless of their seniority. We also have a competitive salary and commission structure.