Gretchen O’Brien is a Senior Vice President and trusted advisor to CEOs, Boards, and executive leadership teams, specializing in executive search and organizational build-out within complex, growth-oriented environments. She partners closely with clients — particularly small to mid-sized organizations — to identify and place transformative leaders who drive business performance.
We asked Gretchen a few questions about herself and about her advice for job searchers – learn more about her background and tips:
How did you get into your current role?
I have worked with King & Bishop for years before stepping into my current role. The company always impressed me, whether I needed someone to work as a contractor or I was looking for a permanent employee. They screened candidates well and gave me quick service. I had been laid off once, and Brendan King reached out to me with a temporary opportunity. After the pandemic, I really felt the need to have more control of my work. Anyone who knows me, knows that I RUN towards a challenge. But this was very different. I saw the negative impact staffing shortages were having in my work, and every day was emotionally difficult and I had little control over it. I called Brendan, we talked, as we often did, and he asked if I may be interested in coming to work at King & Bishop. That was over 5 years ago!
What moments stand out to you about your time with King & Bishop?
At King & Bishop, it is expected that we all work hard and get results. This was another reason that I joined. In my career, I have always worked long and hard. This was instilled in me at a very young age. After about one year, owners John Bogosian and Brendan King came to take me out to lunch. They acknowledged my hard work in recruiting and leading a team of recruiters. They offered me a substantial increase in my pay. I felt noticed and appreciated. This was a stand-out moment!
How do you see AI impacting the job search?
AI is a game-changer as a recruiter, and it makes my job easier in a few ways. I am able to put recruitment plans together, mine data for the niche services that we work on, and it helps me when I am assessing candidates and putting a “slate” together to rank them. It also gives me more time to meet with clients and candidates, which is what is most important.
Additionally, I coach candidates a lot, and I will always share best practices with them for their search. The most important thing always is NOT to rely on it for everything. You still need to create your own content.
What advice do you have/what do you wish people knew about working with a recruiter?
It is important that candidates understand that recruiters are hired to find candidates that are the exact match for our clients. If we submit a candidate who does not meet all of the criteria, we are risking our reputation.
For companies, I would share that great recruiters are hired so we do not waste your precious time. You may not see as many candidates as you may with an in-house recruiter, and that is because we pride ourselves in saving you time and money.
Interested in working with Gretchen?
Contact Gretchen directly: gobrien@kingbishop.com
You must be logged in to post a comment.