Meet Jon
Q: What's your background in recruitment?
A: I've been in tech recruitment for 10-years; it's the only profession I've known. I began helping software engineers (Java, C++, C#) move in to and around financial services, then switched to the web (JavaScript) and mobile (iOS, Android) space for start-ups. I've hired, trained, and led high-performing recruitment teams too.
Q: Why did you start Workonomics?
A: To spend more time working closely with candidates and clients. If you're in the corporate agency world for too long it's inevitable you'll end up doing a lot less of that, which is the work I value most.
Q: How did you find your Co-Founder?
A: Tony's one of my closest friends; we started our careers on the same day at the same company, and have developed similar ideas on what good recruitment looks like. We've different but complementary styles and skills, meaning we can tackle most problems efficiently. I trust and can totally rely on him.
Q: What do you enjoy most about recruitment?
A: I get to solve problems for brilliant people from all walks of life; there’s nothing more fulfilling than that. Plus I get to collaborate with some truly pioneering businesses that I’d probably never have a chance to see in to otherwise.
Q: What’s your recruitment style?
A: Honest, direct, and pragmatic.
Q: What’s your biggest achievement in recruitment?
A: I once helped recruit a husband and wife from Liverpool in to the same company and team in Kent before (at their request) - that was a pretty good one.
Q: What’s the greatest challenge(s) you face in recruitment?
A: A lack of information, and bottlenecks in processes; both of which are well within a company’s control and really shouldn’t cause as many headaches as they do. I like to surface these early and help make things more efficient.
Q: What advice would you give someone looking to find a recruiter to help them to change jobs?
A: Be proactive. Instead of hitting the ‘open to work’ button on LinkedIn, tailor your approach. Ask friends if they can introduce you to a good recruiter. Update your profile; the best recruiters with the most suitable opportunities will find you. Do your research; check the quality and quantity of a recruiter’s recommendations (same as you’d review companies on Glassdoor). This’ll filter who’s worth your time, will listen, and add value to your search.
Q: What are you interested in outside of recruitment?
A: My mini dachshund Hercules keeps me busy in-between (but mostly during) work calls. Staying fit’s important, I like most forms of high-intensity exercise. Sports-wise, I (sometimes) support Arsenal and follow UFC. I love my music, mainly hip-hop and house. I’m quite partial to a European escapade every so often too.
Q: What are your favourite apps?
A: I’ve borderline OCD when it comes to organisation, so I’d struggle without Notion. I’m forever editing something on there, be it work or personal, on iOS or desktop. I’ve recently developed a side interest in stocks too, thanks to Freetrade. It’s slick and beautifully designed (best in dark mode).