How did you join the team at Coleman James?
Like many great career moves, it all started with a LinkedIn message. Jemma Foster, our People & Development Manager and internal recruitment lead, reached out and sent me a video explaining more about Coleman James. I was already working in recruitment, so seeing how Coleman James does things differently was really appealing.
My interest was immediately piqued, and what stood out to me was how well the team know their sectors, their clients, and their candidates.
From chatting with Jemma, it was clear that Coleman James’ approach isn’t just about filling roles, it’s about speaking to individuals and businesses, understanding their goals, and finding the best ways to support them.
I’ve always been about relationships and meaningful conversations, and it was clear that Coleman James would give me the opportunity to focus on just that. Their fantastic team culture also shone through - they clearly look after and invest in their people, which was also a big draw.
What does a typical day look like for you?
No two days are the same, but the fast-paced nature of recruitment is what keeps it exciting. My mornings start with a check of our system, reviewing the latest candidate references, and planning my day. I create a list of the individuals I want to speak to and the roles I want to prioritise. Then, it’s straight onto the phones, speaking with candidates and building those key relationships.
In the afternoon, I shift my focus to candidate references, following up to not only verify candidates but also explore opportunities to work with potential new clients. I specialise in contract recruitment within civil engineering, ranging from site engineers to contract managers, so keeping in touch with both candidates and employers is essential. Like all sectors, the landscape is constantly shifting, so it’s essential to stay informed about market trends and ensure we are responding to what businesses need while also considering what candidates are looking for.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
The pace, without a doubt! Recruiting for contract roles means things often move quickly, which is just how I like it. One day, you’re speaking to a candidate; the next, they’ve had an interview, and by that afternoon, they’ve secured a role.
It’s incredibly rewarding to see people take that next step in their careers with our help. Knowing that we’ve made a tangible difference in someone’s life is what makes this job so fulfilling.
What are the key ingredients for a successful career in recruitment?
Being both personable and professional is key. You need to match the energy of your client while also demonstrating your expertise. Building trust is everything in this industry.
On the candidate side, it’s about guiding and supporting them in their career journey. Not everyone knows exactly what they want from their next role, so it’s our job to listen, ask the right questions, and help them discover the best fit. Knowing when to speak and when to simply listen is a skill that makes a real difference.
What advice would you give to anyone considering a career in recruitment?
Go for it! You’ll find yourself outside of your comfort zone at times, but that’s when real growth happens. Be confident, absorb as much knowledge as you can, and don’t be afraid to ask questions - there’s no such thing as a stupid one.
One of the best things about working here is the support. The whole team is incredibly knowledgeable and always happy to help. Learning from those around you is invaluable, especially in such a dynamic industry.
What training and support is available at Coleman James?
The training here is thorough and well-structured. From learning the platforms and processes we use to getting to grips with client accounts, the team ensures you’re well-equipped before giving you the autonomy to build relationships yourself. I’ve had the opportunity to meet clients face-to-face, book my own meetings, and develop those connections in a way that works for me.
The i3 personality profiling we all take was a game-changer. It gave me real insight into my working style and how I communicate best, helping me strengthen my relationships with both colleagues and clients. It highlighted how I can use my confidence and social skills to enhance my approach to recruitment.
Why would you recommend starting a career at Coleman James?
It’s the people. The team takes the time to understand you as an individual, your strengths, your working style, and how you fit into the bigger picture. They ensure you have the support, tools, and training needed to succeed while also pushing you to develop and grow.
Plus, the office environment is second to none! It’s a buzzing, high-energy space in Hoults Yard - it’s a fantastic place to work every day.
I feel like I’m thriving at Coleman James, and I can’t wait to see where my career here will take me.