James Ottavi’s Post

The other day I was having a conversation about a potential role and was asked (paraphrased): “What is most important to you as you look for your next opportunity?” This got me thinking about my last seven years at Purple, and what I did (hopefully) to help create and sustain an environment and culture that people wanted to be a part of. And as I thought more about that question over the last couple days, I found myself remembering a “stump speech” of sorts that I would give at the end of our monthly Customer Care update/recognition meetings. I would say, almost invariably, that “as long as I am standing in this position,” I would do these four things: ·       Do all in my power to make this a great place to work. ·       Always put employees first. ·       Promote an inclusive environment, where everyone is treated with respect, courtesy, and decency. ·       Talk to anyone, anytime, about anything. I know these are easy platitudes to just say (and there is a lot more to it), but I would like to think that we lived up to this. This is due in large measure to the amazing leaders I had the great honor and privilege of working with. And though I will no longer be saying these words to my old group, they will be uttered again… People and relationships matter! And happy, engaged employees will treat your customers better, and support growth, revenue and success. As you think about your own work situation, what is most important to you?

At some point I started getting emails with happenings around Morris County, NJ and it included a link with jobs. If you live or would work in Morris County, I think it’s worth checking out. From pharmacists to project managers, jobs of all types, levels, and company sizes are here. There were 618 opportunities on the latest list and it’s refreshed at least weekly. I know I appreciate having a curated list to review quickly and without a billion eyeballs 👀 on it (like LI). Maybe you’ll find positions of interest for yourself or others you know who are looking, or it helps inform your target 🎯 company list. https://lnkd.in/eBMkkC2x

This month's Associate Spotlight is the epitome of hardworking and driven. Meet Sarah Wolfe, who has two incredible roles: Director of Sales for the South Texas region and Super Hero Mom for her sons. Sarah recently celebrated her 9 year anniversary with CE and has gained a ton of wisdom on how to grow your career in HVAC, especially as a woman in the industry. She started as a Marketing Coordinator and worked her way up through the organization by following these key career tips: 💡Be proactive and have clear career goals 💡Advocate for yourself 💡Play into your strengths and understand your weaknesses 💡Never stop learning 💡Reframe rejection

Advancing his #careerswithcrown, Peter tells us about how he was able to try new things within our global company. Hear what he has to say about why continues to work for the company! Learn more about career opportunities at crown.jobs

How much do you remember about the successes you've had in your jobs? Do you take a moment to celebrate them and note them down for reflection? When I work with people on their CVs, it's one of the first things I have them work on - they need to use their bullet points as their opportunity to shout about their accomplishments in each role, rather than list their responsibilities. Here's a bit more on what I have to say about it.

This story has shaped my understanding of loyalty and the true value of relationships in our careers. A few years ago, I placed a candidate in an entry-level role. It wasn’t easy as this person was overqualified. And the company hesitated to take the risk. But I saw their potential and pushed hard to get them in. Today, that candidate has risen to become the hiring manager at the same company. And guess what? Because of the trust and bond, we built back then. They now come directly to us with job opportunities. No business development was needed, just mutual respect and loyalty. This experience taught me something invaluable. When you genuinely invest in people. The returns are more than just professional. They’re deeply personal. In recruitment, it’s easy to focus on just the numbers. The roles filled, and the business won. But true success comes from - the relationships we build along the way - the impact you have had on others - the way you make others feel These connections aren’t just about networking or business. They’re about believing in someone’s potential and watching them flourish. And in turn, those same relationships can propel your career in ways you never imagined. It’s not just about filling a role; it’s about building lasting connections that enrich both sides. After all, success in this industry and in life comes from lifting others as you climb. 🚀 What experiences have taught you about the power of loyalty? 👇

Check out the link to workforce development too!

Last night on the Blog we had another 'Get To Know Team TM: Ange' Feature from our very own Founder & Director, Ange Millar. Ange talks all about her career thus far and gives some great insight into seizing opportunities - a must read before entering 2025!

🌟 Culture at Reed: Improving Lives Together 🌟 As a co-member at Reed, you’ll find yourself in an inclusive, collaborative, and innovative workplace. Our culture is more than just a buzzword—it’s the heartbeat of our organization. Here’s why it matters: Fair, Open & Honest: We believe in treating everyone fairly and fostering an environment where open communication thrives. No one is afraid to speak up about what’s going well or how we can improve. Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: Whether you’re helping someone find their dream job, promoting our products, or making a difference in communities, you won’t be doing it alone. At Reed, we work together to achieve our purpose of improving lives through work. Taking Ownership: Pride in your work matters. Whether you’re completing a client project, collaborating with a fellow co-member, or working on an internal initiative, we encourage you to put your best foot forward. Our purpose drives us forward. 🌐 Learn more about life at Reed here. https://lnkd.in/gV5ttUfu If you’re seeking a new role, we’re here to help! 🚀 #ReedCareers #WorkTogether #ImprovingLives #ReedAccountancy

This story has shaped my understanding of loyalty and the true value of relationships in our careers. A few years ago, I placed a candidate in an entry-level role. It wasn’t easy as this person was overqualified. And the company hesitated to take the risk. But I saw their potential and pushed hard to get them in. Today, that candidate has risen to become the hiring manager at the same company. And guess what? Because of the trust and bond, we built back then. They now come directly to us with job opportunities. No business development was needed, just mutual respect and loyalty. This experience taught me something invaluable. When you genuinely invest in people. The returns are more than just professional. They’re deeply personal. In recruitment, it’s easy to focus on just the numbers. The roles filled, and the business won. But true success comes from - the relationships we build along the way - the impact you have had on others - the way you make others feel These connections aren’t just about networking or business. They’re about believing in someone’s potential and watching them flourish. And in turn, those same relationships can propel your career in ways you never imagined. It’s not just about filling a role; it’s about building lasting connections that enrich both sides. After all, success in this industry and in life comes from lifting others as you climb. 🚀 What experiences have taught you about the power of loyalty? 👇