The Counter Offer

"You're not stuck—you're just scared to take up space."In this episode of The Counter Offer, host Susanna Gray is joined by her co-host for the season, recruiter-turned-career-coach Tiarna Mccormack. Tiarna brings sharp insight into the job search process, why women especially struggle to own their stories, and what it really takes to move your career forward. They dig into the unspoken power dynamics between recruiters and candidates, how burnout fuels bad decisions, and why quiet quitting might not be the answer you're looking for.If you've ever felt invisible in your career or doubted your next move, this episode will give you the mindset reset you didn't know you needed.Must-Hear Insights and Key MomentsFrom Recruiter to Coach – Tiarna shares her transition from the recruitment world to career coaching, explaining how personal burnout and professional misalignment led her to find deeper meaning in helping people unlock clarity and confidence.The Power of Owning Your Story – The conversation dives into why so many people—especially women—struggle to articulate their worth and how career coaching can help shift those narratives.Quiet Quitting: A Symptom, Not a Solution – Tiarna breaks down why quiet quitting is a red flag for deeper disengagement and how it can be an opportunity to reflect and pivot before you fully burn out.Recruiter Red Flags – Susanna and Tiarna expose what candidates often miss when dealing with recruiters and how to spot the signs that a role—or a recruiter—isn't aligned with your values.Job Search Mindset Reset – They unpack why desperation in a job search backfires and how reframing the process around curiosity and ownership leads to better long-term outcomes.Words of Wisdom: Standout Quotes from This Episode“When people come to me, they think the problem is their résumé—but it's really their relationship to their career.” – Tiarna Mccormack“You're not stuck—you're just scared to take up space.” – Tiarna Mccormack“Quiet quitting is a coping mechanism for something much deeper.” – Tiarna Mccormack“Owning your story is about reclaiming your career narrative before someone else writes it for you.” – Tiarna Mccormack“If a recruiter makes you feel small, that's a massive red flag.” – Tiarna Mccormack“Most of the time, people already know what they want—they just need permission to want it.” – Tiarna Mccormack“When you're desperate in a job search, you show up differently—and you attract the wrong opportunities.” – Susanna Gray“Your self-worth should not be tied to your job title.” – Tiarna Mccormack“We're not meant to stay in the same role for 5, 10, 15 years and feel nothing.” – Tiarna Mccormack“Clarity in your career isn't found in a spreadsheet—it's found in your story.” – Susanna GrayAbout Tiarna MccormackTiarna Mccormack is a recruitment professional with over 10 years of experience, specializing in connecting senior talent with recruitment agencies. She has held key roles, including Director, Associate Partner, and Regional Director, across sectors such as HR, Technology, Life Sciences, and Accountancy & Finance. Tiarna focuses on executive search, interim solutions, and talent acquisition while helping senior professionals achieve their career goals.Her approach centers on building strong relationships, emphasizing the importance of communication and trust in recruitment. Tiarna is also committed to coaching and mentoring, supporting individuals in unlocking their potential and advancing their careers.Outside of work, Tiarna enjoys traveling, yoga, and spending time with friends over a glass of wine. She believes in fostering meaningful connections and creating opportunities for others. For senior-level recruitment support or career advice, Tiarna is an experienced and trusted partner to collaborate with.Connect with Tiarna MccormackLinkedInFollow The Counter Offer:LinkedIn HostLinkedIn PodcastInstagramTiktok

Are you truly in control of your career, or are you just reacting to circumstances? In this episode, Susanna sits down with Denise Matthews, a powerhouse in recruitment and career coaching with over 30 years of experience. Denise shares hard-hitting truths about the job market, the psychology of career transitions, and the strategies recruiters and job seekers need to truly stand out. She dives into how self-awareness is the key to career success—and why most people overlook it, the critical mistakes recruiters and job seekers make when navigating the market, and how to build long-term relationships that turn into real career opportunities. Whether you're a recruiter, a job seeker, or someone rethinking your next move, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Listen now and take control of your career.Must-Hear Insights and Key Moments Know yourself before making a career move – Define your strengths, values, and ideal workplace to avoid aimless job searching and find long-term career satisfaction. Stand out strategically – Instead of mass applications, build relationships, engage on LinkedIn, and connect with decision-makers to create real opportunities. Overcome imposter syndrome – Use visualization, mentorship, and self-awareness to boost confidence and step into new roles with conviction. Assess company culture deeply – Ask about retention, leadership, and real-life values to ensure alignment before committing to a role. Prioritize long-term relationships – Great recruiters don't just fill jobs; they build lasting connections that lead to sustained career growth. Develop mental resilience – Adapt to setbacks, reflect on your journey, and create a career plan that aligns with your values.About Denis MatthewsDenise Matthews has over 30 years of experience in talent acquisition and recruitment, working across small agencies, and large firms, and running her businesses. She has seen every side of recruitment—successes, failures, and the evolving industry landscape. A qualified executive and career coach (ILM Level 7), Denise specializes in mentoring senior leaders and middle management, helping them accelerate career progression, secure higher salaries, and gain the recognition they deserve.She has a deep passion for matching the right talent to the right roles, emphasizing long-term career fulfillment. She also serves as a mentor with the Association of Business Mentors, where she supports professionals in unlocking their full potential. Her expertise spans leadership development, performance management, and navigating career transitions.Denise's coaching philosophy is rooted in self-awareness, strategic career planning, and leveraging strengths for success. Whether working with job seekers, recruiters, or business leaders, she challenges, develops, and supports individuals to reach their highest potential.Connect with Denise Matthews LinkedIn WebsiteFollow The Counter Offer: ⁠LinkedIn Host⁠ ⁠LinkedIn Podcast⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Tiktok

Recruitment is full of tough lessons, but few people know them better than Greg Savage.  In this episode, we cut through the noise and get straight to what really makes a great recruiter—beyond just hitting KPIs. Greg shares unfiltered insights on why most training is a waste of time, the biggest mistakes recruiters make when handling counteroffers, and why elite recruiters master the art of influence, not just the science of the job.  He also calls out the industry's obsession with AI, explaining why some tools are making things worse before they get better. If you want to sharpen your skills, boost your placements, and stay ahead in a changing market, this episode is a must-listen. Must-Hear Insights and Key Moments The biggest mistake recruitment leaders make in downturns – Greg explains why cutting back on training and marketing when times are tough is the exact opposite of what companies should be doing. Why most recruitment training is a waste of time – Greg shares his unfiltered view on why traditional training fails and what actually works to develop top-performing recruiters. The power of influence in recruitment – It's not about automation alone—Greg breaks down how the best recruiters master persuasion, storytelling, and human connection to close deals. AI's role in recruitment: Hype vs. reality – Greg discusses how AI is reshaping the industry, where it's useful, and where it's making things worse. Managing high performers: Why top billers still need coaching – Greg challenges the common practice of leaving top recruiters alone and explains how leaders can take them from good to great. Lessons from recruitment disasters – He shares some of his biggest mistakes in recruitment and what they taught him about resilience, accountability, and earning trust. About Greg Savage Greg Savage is one of the most respected voices in the global recruitment and professional services industries. With a career spanning over four decades, he has built, scaled, and advised numerous successful recruitment businesses worldwide. As the founder of several thriving agencies and a sought-after speaker, Greg's insights on leadership, business growth, and industry evolution have shaped the careers of countless recruiters. He is the author of The Savage Truth, a book that blends his personal journey with valuable lessons on leadership, personal branding, and high-performance business strategies. His widely followed blog, The Savage Truth, is a go-to resource for recruiters looking to stay ahead in the industry. Recognized as a LinkedIn Top Voice, Greg continues to influence and mentor recruitment professionals through keynotes, masterclasses, and his online training academy. Connect with Greg Savage LinkedIn Website Follow The Counter Offer: LinkedIn Host LinkedIn Podcast Instagram Tiktok

Is flexibility in the workplace truly achievable, or is it still a dream for many parents and professionals? In this episode of The Counter Offer, Susanna is joined by Elizabeth Willetts, Founder of Investing in Women and host of the Work It Like a Mum podcast.  Elizabeth shares her path from redundancy during the pandemic to building a business focused on creating flexible work opportunities for women and parents. They discuss the barriers women encounter in finding part-time senior roles, the deeper issues behind the gender pay gap, and how employers can rethink flexibility.  She also reflects on the mindset shifts and coaching that helped her turn challenges into opportunities. This episode offers advice on crafting a career that works for their lives, from preparing for interviews to making the most of LinkedIn.  Elizabeth also shares insights into her upcoming book, Flex, and the lessons she's learned about balancing career and family.  This is an episode that will leave you with plenty to think about and tools to act on. Must-Hear Insights and Key Moments Elizabeth's Journey to Flexibility: Elizabeth shares how redundancy during the pandemic inspired her to start Investing in Women, addressing the lack of flexible work options for mothers. Tackling the Gender Pay Gap: She highlights how limited part-time senior roles force women out of high-paying careers, perpetuating the gender pay gap. Turning Doubt into Action: Imposter syndrome is a universal struggle, but with the guidance of a business coach, Elizabeth built a company that aligns with her values and supports others. Finding Truly Flexible Employers: She shares tips on spotting flexible workplaces, like researching LinkedIn posts, Glassdoor reviews, and networking. Lessons from Flex: Elizabeth introduces her book, Flex, a guide to building a fulfilling career with insights on CVs, job pivots, and work-life balance. About Elizabeth Willets Elizabeth Willetts is an experienced recruiter with over 17 years of expertise, including roles at Deloitte and Hays. She is the founder of Investing in Women, the UK's leading flexible working recruitment company, job board, and community, dedicated to helping women find part-time and flexible roles. Her mission is to close the gender pay gap by empowering women to pursue fulfilling careers that fit their lives without sacrificing time for family, hobbies, or personal goals. Inspired by her own challenges as a working mom, Elizabeth is passionate about creating opportunities for women to thrive in the workplace. Elizabeth also hosts the Work It Like a Mum podcast, sharing stories of women balancing career and motherhood, and her debut book, Flex - a dynamic guide for anyone wanting to build a successful career ― on their terms is due out in January 2025. As a mom to two daughters and owner of a Labradoodle, Elizabeth combines her professional and personal experiences to inspire and support women everywhere. Mentioned in the Episode Flex: Smart Strategies to Build A Successful Career Around Your Life Work it Like a Mum Podcast Connect with Elizabeth Willets LinkedIn Website Instagram Follow The Counter Offer: LinkedIn Host LinkedIn Podcast Instagram Tiktok

What does it take to stay authentic and succeed in a world of challenges? In this episode of The Counter Offer, Susanna sits down with Lee McQueen, entrepreneur, recruitment innovator, and winner of The Apprentice (Series 4). Lee shares his journey from humble beginnings to building multiple seven-figure businesses and reflects on the role of authenticity, resilience, and decisive action in achieving success. The conversation covers Lee's approach to recruitment, including his revolutionary take on hiring without CVs and his development of Phoenix 51, a platform that digitizes the assessment process.  Lee also discusses the lessons he learned from working with Lord Sugar, the importance of asking tough questions in recruitment, and why coachability is a key trait for success.  Packed with insights and inspiring stories, this episode is a must-listen for recruiters, entrepreneurs, and anyone striving to create a lasting impact in their field. Must-Hear Insights and Key Moments Authenticity on The Apprentice: Lee reflects on how staying true to himself during The Apprentice helped him win, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and relationship-building in both personal and professional settings. The CV-Free Recruitment Revolution: Lee explains how a mistake on his CV inspired him to create a recruitment model that focuses on behavior and competencies rather than traditional resumes, leading to the creation of Phoenix 51. Lessons from Lord Sugar: Key takeaways from working with Lord Sugar include simplifying processes, solving real problems, and taking consistent, decisive action. Navigating the Pandemic: The challenges of COVID-19 pushed the transition to virtual assessment centers, showing how adaptability can lead to innovation and business growth. The Importance of Tough Questions: Asking probing and sometimes uncomfortable questions is essential to understanding client needs and delivering impactful solutions. Why Coachability Matters: Being open to learning and feedback remains a cornerstone of personal and professional growth, a principle that drives Lee's coaching approach. About Lee McQueen Lee McQueen is the Founder and CEO of the award-winning software business Phoenix 51, a platform revolutionizing how organizations assess and recruit top talent. Best known as the winner of The Apprentice (Series 4), Lee has over 25 years of experience in recruitment and sales, having built multiple seven-figure businesses.  Passionate about changing traditional hiring methods, he champions assessing behaviors and competencies over CVs. Lee's journey, from humble beginnings to business success, highlights his commitment to innovation, authenticity, and empowering organizations to thrive. Connect with Lee McQueen: LinkedIn Website Follow The Counter Offer: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn Host⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tiktok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Are you listening to the people around you—or just waiting to speak? In this special Christmas episode of The Counter Offer, Susanna Gray-Jones sits down with a very special guest—her father, Lindsay Gray. With decades of experience across leadership, education, mediation, and volunteer work, Lindsay shares his timeless wisdom on how to navigate change, build trust, and manage burnout with grace.  He offers practical insights on how leaders can gain the trust of their teams, why understanding individuals is the foundation of effective leadership, and how to create balance to avoid burnout. Lindsay's journey highlights the importance of stepping into uncomfortable situations, learning from mistakes, and recognizing the power of listening.  Whether you're a recruiter, a manager stepping into a new leadership role, or someone looking for ways to manage stress and create more balance in life, this episode is filled with invaluable lessons to help you thrive. Listen now and take the first step toward a stronger, more balanced version of yourself! Must-Hear Insights and Key Moments Embracing Change in Leadership: Lindsay shares how to manage change effectively, gain trust in a new role, and balance respect for existing systems with necessary improvements. Handling Tough Conversations: Practical advice on approaching managers with ideas for change, focusing on positivity, preparation, and finding the right communication method. Overcoming Burnout and Stress: Lindsay opens up about his personal experience with burnout, the warning signs he missed, and the steps he took to recover and restore balance. Supporting Colleagues Through Challenges: Drawing from his Samaritan work, Lindsay explains how to recognize when someone is struggling and approach them with care and understanding. The Power of Calm Leadership: He discusses how leaders create the atmosphere of an organization and why staying calm and composed earns respect and builds trust. Timeless Advice for Life: Lindsay's one key piece of wisdom: "Take your time with every individual and look for the good in them." About Lindsay Gray Lindsay Gray is an experienced consultant, mediator, and educator with a career spanning over 40 years in education, music, and charity development. He served as Headmaster of The Cathedral School and Director of the Royal School of Church Music.  Currently, he is a Samaritans volunteer, Founder & Director of Caritas Consort, and a trusted advisor in education and choral music. Passionate about mental health and leadership, Lindsay's career reflects his dedication to helping others and fostering positive change. Connect with Lindsay Gray: ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ Follow The Counter Offer: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn Host⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tiktok⁠⁠⁠⁠

What if the life you want is just one gutsy decision away? In this episode, Susanna Gray-Jones welcomes Tiarna Mccormack, a bold Rec2rec professional whose career journey is a masterclass in taking risks and reaping rewards. From selling dream holidays to building a thriving recruitment career across continents, Tiarna proves that stepping outside your comfort zone can open doors you never imagined. This episode brings strategies for choosing the right recruitment market, mastering salary negotiations, and building authentic relationships with candidates and clients.  Tiarna's honest insights on career transitions, navigating counteroffers, and finding fulfillment offer a refreshing perspective for recruiters at any stage of their journey. Whether you're aiming for the next level in recruitment or seeking inspiration to make your own gutsy move, this conversation will leave you empowered and ready to take action.  This episode is your nudge to leap! Must-Hear Insights and Key Moments Tiarna's Bold Career Shift: From managing sales at Flight Centre to entering the recruitment industry, Tiarna shares how her passion for people and travel led her to a thriving career in Rectorec. The Power of Listening: They discuss the often-overlooked skill of active listening in recruitment, emphasizing how truly understanding candidates and clients can set recruiters apart. Navigating Counteroffers: Tiarna breaks down her approach to guiding candidates through salary negotiations and counteroffers, ensuring long-term satisfaction rather than short-term fixes. Choosing the Right Recruitment Market: Tiarna offers insights into identifying resilient and lucrative markets, such as tech, private equity, and ESG, while highlighting the importance of recruiting in a field you genuinely connect with. The Role of Guts in Career Success: Reflecting on how stepping outside her comfort zone—from moving to new countries to starting her first podcast—has fueled her personal and professional growth. About Tiarna Mccormak Tiarna Mccormack is a recruitment professional with over 10 years of experience, specializing in connecting senior talent with recruitment agencies. She has held key roles, including Director, Associate Partner, and Regional Director, across sectors such as HR, Technology, Life Sciences, and Accountancy & Finance. Tiarna focuses on executive search, interim solutions, and talent acquisition while helping senior professionals achieve their career goals. Her approach centers on building strong relationships, emphasizing the importance of communication and trust in recruitment. Tiarna is also committed to coaching and mentoring, supporting individuals in unlocking their potential and advancing their careers. Outside of work, Tiarna enjoys traveling, yoga, and spending time with friends over a glass of wine. She believes in fostering meaningful connections and creating opportunities for others. For senior-level recruitment support or career advice, Tiarna is an experienced and trusted partner to collaborate with. Connect with Tiarna Mccormak: ⁠LinkedIn⁠ Follow The Counter Offer: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn Host⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tiktok⁠⁠⁠⁠

Can a recruiter's greatest success come from redefining the game and putting relationships above all else? In this episode, Susanna Gray-Jones sits down with Josh Brandon, founder of Qualiteach, to explore the journey of building an exceptional recruitment business.  Josh shares how his purpose, rooted in family and a relentless pursuit of quality, drives him to create a reputable name in education recruitment.  From starting his own company at a young age to the unique challenges of staying boutique, Josh opens up about his early hurdles, the importance of relationships, and the value of caring deeply for clients and staff. This is a must-listen for recruiters aiming to achieve career success and a meaningful impact in their roles. Must-Hear Insights and Key Moments Josh's “Why”: Josh shares that his family motivates him daily, while professionally, he aims to be recognized for quality over size in the recruitment world. Founding Qualiteach: He discusses starting Qualiteach at a young age, viewing it as “starting a desk” to reduce fear, with support from a mentor. Long-Term Focus: Josh explains Qualiteach's emphasis on long-term placements, inspired by his special education background, to build stability and strong relationships. Value of Relationships: He stresses that recruitment success relies on understanding each school's needs rather than quick, transactional placements. Prioritizing Organic Growth and Integrity: Josh advises aspiring entrepreneurs to focus on organic growth, invest in back-office support, and put integrity and care at the forefront, emphasizing that sustainable success goes beyond just billing. About Josh Brandon Josh Brandon is the founder of Qualiteach, an education recruitment consultancy he launched in December 2015 with a mission to deliver unmatched service in the sector. With 14 years of dedicated experience in education recruitment, Josh brings a wealth of expertise and a strong commitment to quality, reliability, and trustworthiness.  Under his leadership, Qualiteach has grown to include approximately 40 employees across three regional offices, serving a broad network of schools and educational institutions. Josh's approach is rooted in a belief in fostering a positive, supportive work environment where each team member is empowered to reach their full potential.  This culture of encouragement and professional growth has become a cornerstone of Qualiteach's success, allowing the company to thrive and make a meaningful impact in the lives of both candidates and clients. Whether helping schools find exceptional educators or guiding professionals to fulfilling roles, Josh remains steadfast in his commitment to excellence. Connect with Josh Brandon: Website LinkedIn Follow The Counter Offer: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn Host⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tiktok⁠⁠⁠

What does it take to elevate your recruiting career from average to elite? In this episode, Susanna Gray-Jones is joined by the esteemed recruitment trainer, Alan Clarke, founder of RecruiterFit. With over 27 years of industry expertise, Alan shares his mission of empowering recruiters to refine their skills and build resilience in a demanding field.  He dives into the art of developing essential recruiting techniques and enhancing softer skills that many overlook, emphasizing how mastering these can elevate one's career from ordinary to elite.  Alan's unique blend of practical insights and motivational guidance helps listeners tap into their fullest potential, pushing beyond perceived limits to succeed in today's tough market. They also explore the mindset shifts that separate top-performing recruiters from the rest and discuss why investing in continuous improvement and self-discipline is key to navigating the industry's highs and lows. Must-Hear Insights and Key Moments Getting RecruiterFit – Alan's mission is to help recruiters build resilience and sharpen both hard and soft skills to elevate their performance. Mastering the Basics – Success in recruitment starts with consistently excelling at fundamentals like thorough candidate qualification and understanding the client's real needs. Deep Qualifying – Going beyond surface-level motivations, Alan recommends uncovering six or more reasons a candidate wants to move, ensuring a stronger commitment. Referrals Done Right – Referrals are strategic when done well. Alan shares tips for framing referral requests that tap into top-performer networks. Building Resilience – In a tough market, keep relationships active with long-term thinking, even if immediate opportunities aren't there. Backfill Opportunities – Leverage open roles left by placed candidates. Backfilling is a powerful, often overlooked way to secure new business. About Alan Clarke Alan Clarke is an experienced recruitment trainer with over 25 years in the industry, having trained more than 11,500 recruiters across 17 countries. From new consultants to business owners, Alan equips professionals with the essential skills to excel in recruitment, build successful desks, and lead teams effectively. As the founder of RecruiterFit, he offers a wide range of tailored training programs, from induction to advanced management courses, all aligned with each client's unique brand and values. His resources extend beyond the classroom, featuring over 100 online training videos and practical 'Response Handlers' for managing client and candidate calls. Alan's dedication to enhancing recruitment standards and his commitment to empowering recruiters have established him as a highly valued mentor and expert in the industry. Connect with Alan Clarke: ⁠Website⁠ ⁠LinkedIn⁠ Follow The Counter Offer: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn Host⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tiktok⁠⁠⁠

What truly drives a recruiter to succeed—passion for people, or the pursuit of profit? In this episode, Susanna Gray-Jones sits down with Martin Keddie, Associate Director at Axcis Education Recruitment. Martin's unique journey from performing arts to becoming a top-billing recruiter in the education sector reveals how diverse experiences can shape a successful career in recruitment. Martin shares how his background as a teaching assistant and performer equipped him to navigate the challenges of recruitment. He discusses his rapid progression within Axcis, highlighting the importance of discipline, people skills, and a commitment to supporting children with special educational needs. Hear Martin's practical advice on staying calm under pressure, building strong client and candidate relationships, and how personal growth can lead to long-term success in recruitment. This episode is a must-listen for recruiters looking to elevate their game and build a rewarding, impactful career in the recruitment industry. Must-Hear Insights and Key Moments Diverse Experiences Lead to Success: Martin's background in performing arts and education shaped his approach to recruitment, showing how transferable skills from different industries can set you apart as a recruiter. Passion Over Profit: Martin emphasizes that his motivation for entering recruitment wasn't driven by money but by a genuine desire to help people—particularly in supporting children with special educational needs.  The Power of Discipline and Adaptability: Drawing from his experience as a performer, Martin highlights the critical need for discipline and adaptability in recruitment, whether it's navigating client relationships or handling last-minute challenges. Relationships Are Everything: Building and nurturing strong relationships with candidates and clients is a cornerstone of recruitment success, proving that trust and communication are more important than transactional thinking. Proactive Career Growth: Taking the initiative to pursue additional qualifications and create new roles within an organization is a powerful way to advance your career and shape your own path. Staying Calm in Crisis: Martin shares his strategies for remaining calm during high-stress situations, a key trait for thriving in recruitment where unpredictability is common. About Martin Keddie Martin Keddie is the Associate Director of HR & Candidate Management at Axcis Education Recruitment, with over 13 years of experience in education recruitment. Based in Greater London, Martin specializes in placing talented individuals into special educational needs (SEN) roles, helping to make a meaningful impact in the lives of vulnerable children. Martin's career began in musical theater, and he later transitioned into recruitment, bringing his discipline and adaptability from the performing arts into his work. He quickly rose through the ranks at Axcis, starting as a Senior Team Leader, then moving to Branch Manager, and eventually becoming Associate Director. Known for his calm leadership and people-first approach, Martin is passionate about fostering strong relationships with candidates and clients alike. His HR expertise, coupled with his Associate CIPD qualification, allows him to mentor and support his team, ensuring they excel in the field of SEN recruitment. Connect with Martin Keddie: Website LinkedIn Follow The Counter Offer: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn Host⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Tiktok⁠⁠⁠

Are you investing enough in your growth or just chasing short-term wins? This week, we're bringing back the most listened-to episode on The Counter Offer! Join Susanna Gray-Jones and guest co-host Luke Smith as they sit down with Nick Murphy, CEO of Tradewind Recruitment, to explore the journey behind building a thriving recruitment business.  From his early days in Sydney to leading Tradewind's growth in the UK, Nick shares the key strategies that have driven his success. Nick discusses how Tradewind has grown from a £26 million turnover to over £100 million, expanding across 11 locations in the UK. He emphasizes Tradewind's focus on investing in people and creating a supportive culture that empowers recruiters to excel.  It's not just about competitive commission structures; it's about long-term growth and building a legacy. The conversation delves into what sets Tradewind apart from other big players, highlighting their commitment to candidate development, compliance, and a strong support system. This episode is especially significant, not only because it's the most listened to episode to date but also because it marks a major milestone—Nick Murphy's 10-year anniversary at Tradewind. His decade-long leadership at the helm of this recruitment powerhouse showcases his unwavering dedication to growth and innovation. With a proven track record of success, Nick's insights into building and scaling a business are more relevant than ever. This conversation offers a rare opportunity to learn from a leader who has shaped an industry and continues to invest in the future of recruitment. If you're serious about advancing your recruitment career, this conversation is packed with actionable strategies you won't want to miss! Must-Hear Insights and Key Moments Tradewind's Growth Story: Nick Murphy shares how Tradewind Recruitment expanded from a £26 million turnover to over £100 million, growing its presence to 11 locations across the UK. Investment in People: The emphasis on investing in staff development and creating a supportive work environment that empowers recruiters to excel, rather than just focusing on commission structures. Navigating Challenges: Insights into how Tradewind handled the difficulties during the COVID-19 pandemic by prioritizing the well-being of both employees and candidates. Long-Term Vision: Tradewind's commitment to building a legacy by reinvesting profits into candidate development, compliance, and technology. What Sets Tradewind Apart: Exploration of how Tradewind's unique culture and management style differentiate it from competitors, focusing on a people-first approach. Leadership Philosophy: Nick Murphy's approach to leadership, emphasizes resilience, humility, and the importance of maintaining a positive mindset during tough times. About Nick Murphy Nick Murphy is the Group CEO of Tradewind Recruitment, SANZA Teaching Agency, and Accelerate Teaching. With over two decades of experience in recruitment and education, Nick has led the expansion of Tradewind to 11 locations across the UK.  Starting his career in Sydney in banking and finance recruitment, he later took on key roles at Capita Education Resourcing and Hays, honing his strategic and leadership skills. Nick is known for his people-first approach, investing in team growth, and creating a supportive work culture. His focus on resilience, accountability, and innovation has set Tradewind apart as a market leader.  Beyond his role at Tradewind, Nick serves as a Board Trustee at Latchmere Academy Trust, driving positive change in education. Connect with Nicky Murphy: ⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ Follow The Counter Offer: ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn Host⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Tiktok⁠⁠⁠

Do you feel under target? It's a frustrating place to be, and it's easy to let the pressure overwhelm you.  But what if being under target isn't the failure you think it is? What if it's actually an opportunity to reassess, refocus, and elevate your recruitment game? In this episode, I open up about my own experiences with missing targets, something every recruiter faces sooner or later. Instead of letting it define you, this is the perfect time to evaluate where you can improve and implement new strategies.  I'll share actionable tips like breaking down big goals into manageable steps, refining your follow-up process, and shifting your mindset to see challenges as stepping stones to success. It's about taking control of what you can and using resilience to turn setbacks into opportunities. If you're feeling the weight of being under target, this episode will give you the tools and strategies to push through and get back on track. Must-Hear Insights and Key Moments Turn Being Under Target Into An Opportunity: Missing targets doesn't have to feel like a failure. Instead, see it as a moment to reassess, discover new strategies, and elevate your recruitment performance. Control Your Actions, Not Your Outcomes: You can't always control how clients or candidates will react, but you can control your actions and mindset. Consistent, focused actions lead to success over time. Use Time-Blocking For Focused Productivity: Break your day into 15-20 minute blocks of focused time to avoid burnout and stay on track with important tasks that drive results. Elevate Your Follow-Up Process: Going beyond just making calls—small personal touches like sending thank-you notes can make a big difference and help you stand out in your follow-up. Resilience Means Learning From Setbacks: True resilience is using setbacks to propel yourself forward. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow and improve. Prioritize Positive Affirmations And Self-Care: Keep your mindset in check with daily positive affirmations, and maintain balance through simple self-care practices like exercise and meditation to stay motivated. Words of Wisdom: Standout Quotes from This Episode “Find a way to enjoy the process.” — Susanna Gray-Jones “See being under target, not as a threat to your job, not as a threat to your career and your life, but see it very much as an opportunity to push yourself and to discover new strategies.” — Susanna Gray-Jones “Focus on what you can control.” — Susanna Gray-Jones “We can't always control the reactions of others, but we can control our actions and our reactions to how they react to us.” — Susanna Gray-Jones “Learn from others, seek advice from people who are doing well.” — Susanna Gray-Jones “Feedback is a gift.” — Susanna Gray-Jones Follow The Counter Offer: ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn Host⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn Podcast⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Tiktok⁠⁠ Check out our sponsor: Soul Space Studio Step into a world where breath becomes your greatest ally, an ever-present guide that reminds you of your inherent ability to find calm amidst the day-to-day. Tap into your inner strength and create profound shifts in your physical, mental, and emotional well-being at work. Soul Space Studio workplace wellbeing workshops and programmes can help your teams: reduce stress levels, create thriving cultures, deepen connection, and expand creative flow. Check out - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.soulspace-studio.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more information USE CODE: COUNTEROFFER for 10% discount

Ever wondered what separates exceptional salespeople from the rest? In this episode, Susanna Gray-Jones chats with sales expert Romy Sembi about mastering the sales process and staying motivated. Romy reveals how understanding the "DNA of selling" and employing a scientific approach can drive success. They delve into how visual goals can fuel motivation and the role of managers in recognizing what drives their teams. Romy also shares his expertise in spotting superstar salespeople, focusing on assessing behaviors, adaptability, and openness to feedback. Highlighting the importance of investing in people, Romy reminds us that today's "little person" could become tomorrow's CEO.  This episode is a treasure trove of actionable advice for sales professionals and managers alike, offering a fresh perspective on achieving sales success. Must-Hear Insights and Key Moments Understanding the "DNA of Selling": Romy Sembi emphasizes the importance of grasping the fundamental elements of successful selling, which can be mapped and systematically applied to drive results. Motivation Through Visual Goals: Keeping a visual reminder of goals, such as a picture of something you desire, can significantly enhance motivation and drive to achieve targets. Tailoring Management Approaches: Effective sales managers must understand and adapt to the individual motivators of their team members to foster a productive environment. Assessing Salespeople's Potential: During interviews, evaluating a candidate's behavior, adaptability, and responsiveness to feedback is crucial for identifying top-performing salespeople. Role of Feedback in Improvement: Embracing and applying feedback is vital for growth. Romy highlights the importance of being open to direction and continuously improving based on constructive criticism. Investing in People for Long-Term Success: Romy underscores the value of investing in individuals, noting that today's “little person” could become a future leader or CEO, making long-term support and development essential. About Romy Sembi Romy Sembi brings over 24 years of expertise in sales training and recruitment, working across 56 countries with a deep understanding of cultural nuances and global business dynamics. As the founder of Aura Sales, Romy has a distinguished track record of elevating sales performance through customized training and strategic recruitment solutions.  His career spans a diverse range of industries and includes collaborations with high-profile companies such as Indeed, Souq.com, and eBay. Romy's approach is rooted in his ability to seamlessly integrate into sales teams and adapt training programs to fit unique business propositions. He emphasizes the importance of translating classroom learning into real-world application, ensuring that sales strategies are not only developed but effectively implemented.  With a focus on both global and startup environments, Romy is adept at providing insights and practices that drive tangible results. His commitment to empowering salespeople and fostering a culture of excellence makes him a valuable partner in achieving sustained success and growth. Connect with Romy Sembi: ⁠⁠Website⁠⁠ ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ Follow The Counter Offer: ⁠⁠LinkedIn Host⁠⁠ ⁠⁠LinkedIn Podcast⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ ⁠Tiktok⁠ Check out our sponsor: Soul Space Studio Step into a world where breath becomes your greatest ally, an ever-present guide that reminds you of your inherent ability to find calm amidst the day-to-day. Tap into your inner strength and create profound shifts in your physical, mental, and emotional well-being at work. Soul Space Studio workplace wellbeing workshops and programmes can help your teams: reduce stress levels, create thriving cultures, deepen connection, and expand creative flow. Check out - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.soulspace-studio.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more information USE CODE: COUNTEROFFER for 10% discount

What if the key to elevating your recruitment process is reevaluating how you assess and onboard new hires? In this episode, Susanna talks to Bobby Banerjee, a seasoned recruitment strategist to explore optimizing recruitment and onboarding strategies. They discuss how to balance thoroughness with efficiency in interviews and the value of role plays for on-the-spot candidate assessment.  Bobby advocates for a streamlined process, suggesting flexible interview stages and avoiding overly complex assessments that could deter top talent. They discuss the ideal timing for evaluating new hires and emphasize the importance of setting clear expectations and assessing competencies beyond immediate billings.  He also introduces his innovative assessment tool, designed to provide deeper insights into candidates' behaviors and potential, moving beyond traditional CV metrics. Tune in now and learn how to enhance your recruitment process! Must-Hear Insights and Key Moments Streamline Your Process: Bobby shares how to create a more efficient recruitment process by recommending flexible interview stages and avoiding overly complex assessments that can discourage top candidates. Role Play for Real Insights: He highlights the effectiveness of role plays during interviews to assess candidates' skills and responses on the spot. Timing for Evaluation: Bobby explains the importance of evaluating new hires over a six to nine-month period to get an accurate sense of their potential and fit. Beyond Billings: He emphasizes setting clear expectations and evaluating candidates' competencies beyond immediate billings to ensure long-term success. Innovative Assessment Tool: Bobby introduces his new tool designed to provide deeper insights into candidates' behaviors and potential, moving past traditional CV metrics. About Bobby Banerjee Bobby Banerjee is a respected Director of Learning known for his expertise in recruitment training and coaching. He has trained over 500 recruiters, from trainees to senior leaders in FTSE 250 companies.  Specializing in customized recruitment training for onboarding, performance coaching, and talent acquisition teams, Bobby leverages his background as a recruitment consultant to address the real-world challenges faced by salespeople.  He won the LPI's Innovation in Learning Award in 2020 for his role in the FurLearn initiative during COVID-19. His training programs are designed to help consultants achieve faster billing and greater confidence. Connect with Bobby Banerjee: ⁠Website⁠ ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠ Follow The Counter Offer: ⁠LinkedIn Host⁠ ⁠LinkedIn Podcast⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ Tiktok Check out our sponsor: Soul Space Studio Step into a world where breath becomes your greatest ally, an ever-present guide that reminds you of your inherent ability to find calm amidst the day-to-day. Tap into your inner strength and create profound shifts in your physical, mental, and emotional well-being at work. Soul Space Studio workplace wellbeing workshops and programmes can help your teams: reduce stress levels, create thriving cultures, deepen connection, and expand creative flow. Check out - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.soulspace-studio.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more information USE CODE: COUNTEROFFER for 10% discount

When someone compliments you, don't downplay it—own it and say thank you. It will empower you and affirm your worth. In this episode, Susanna sits down with Cynthia Barnes, a top LinkedIn voice, keynote speaker, and trailblazer in sales and diversity. Cynthia is known for her powerful presence and inspirational messages on equality and personal growth. They dive deep into the essence of owning one's achievements and how to overcome societal expectations and embrace authenticity. She emphasizes the importance of diversity in the workplace and how unconscious biases can hinder growth. Cynthia also addresses women's challenges in male-dominated industries and offers practical advice for those facing imposter syndrome. Cynthia's wisdom and experience provide a roadmap for personal and professional empowerment, making this a must-listen for recruiters and professionals striving for excellence! Must-Hear Insights and Key Moments Embracing Compliments: Cynthia emphasizes the importance of accepting compliments graciously. Owning and acknowledging your achievements can significantly boost your confidence and affirm your self-worth. Overcoming Societal Expectations: Cynthia shares her journey of navigating and overcoming societal expectations, encouraging listeners to embrace their true selves and reject limiting beliefs. Confidence vs. Warmth: She discusses the delicate balance between confidence and warmth, especially for women in leadership roles. Striking this balance can enhance your effectiveness as a leader while maintaining approachability. Diversity in the Workplace: Cynthia underscores the importance of diversity and how unconscious biases can hinder organizational growth. She advocates for actively addressing these biases to create a more inclusive environment. Supportive Networks for Women: She highlights the challenges women face in male-dominated industries and the critical need for supportive networks that foster growth and encourage women to thrive. About Cynthia Barnes Cynthia Barnes is a transformative leader renowned for igniting confidence and driving results in both the sales and nonprofit sectors. As the founder of the "Own Your Awesome" program, she has empowered sales professionals to overcome self-doubt and achieve impressive performance increases of 30-100%. Currently serving as Director of Development at the Home Furnishing Association, Barnes applies her expertise to build meaningful donor relationships and enhance fundraising success. Her background includes work with major companies such as Google Cloud, Salesforce, Bridgestone, and Toyota, and she is celebrated for significantly increasing female sales hires by 64%. A dynamic speaker and thought leader, Barnes is recognized as a LinkedIn Top Voice and a 4X Salesforce Top Sales Influencer. With two books and a TEDx talk to her name, she is dedicated to inspiring and equipping others to reach their full potential. Connect with Cynthia Barnes: Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Follow The Counter Offer: LinkedIn Host LinkedIn Podcast Instagram Check out our sponsor: Soul Space Studio Step into a world where breath becomes your greatest ally, an ever-present guide that reminds you of your inherent ability to find calm amidst the day-to-day. Tap into your inner strength and create profound shifts in your physical, mental, and emotional well-being at work. Soul Space Studio workplace wellbeing workshops and programmes can help your teams: reduce stress levels, create thriving cultures, deepen connection, and expand creative flow. Check out - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.soulspace-studio.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more information USE CODE: COUNTEROFFER for 10% discount

In this rogue episode, Susanna invites her friend and mentor, Luke Smith, Director of Envisage Search, to discuss some areas of the recruitment industry that you may not hear or think about very often. They explore the qualities of a good client and a decent recruitment company. Luke shares his vast experience in executive search, explaining the challenges and stigmas in the industry. They delve into best practices for supporting recruiters, the importance of company values, and effective hiring strategies. The episode also covers personal growth, the significance of curiosity and accountability, and advice for those considering starting their own recruitment businesses. Connect with Luke Connect with ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Susanna⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join dozens of the top sales and business leaders and connect with Nian Fiedler to be a resource to you in the podcast space. Check out our sponsor Soul Space Studio Step into a world where breath becomes your greatest ally, an ever-present guide that reminds you of your inherent ability to find calm amidst the day-to-day. Tap into your inner strength and create profound shifts in your physical, mental, and emotional well-being at work. Soul Space Studio workplace wellbeing workshops and programmes can help your teams: reduce stress levels, create thriving cultures, deepen connection, and expand creative flow. Check out - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.soulspace-studio.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more information USE CODE: COUNTEROFFER for 10% discount

In this episode of The Counter Offer, Susanna welcomes Carlo Milo, a renowned fitness coach and owner of Pure Health and Fitness in Dubai. They discuss the vital, but often overlooked, connection between fitness and business success. Carlo explains his approach which emphasizes sustainable lifestyle changes over a 90-day period. He shares insights on the importance of nutrition, sleep, and discipline, and offers practical advice for maintaining a healthy routine even with a busy schedule. Carlo and Susanna also just how far healthy habits and fitness can lead to enhanced productivity, confidence, stronger relationships, and overall well-being. More about Carlo: LinkedIn Executive health, fitness and performance coaching, with our ‘SHRED IN 12' programme. He has transformed the lives of thousands of busy executives by educating them on the correct nutrition, training and lifestyle. Carlo believes that being fit and healthy is the key ingredient to living your most successful, productive and prolonged life. Connect with ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Susanna⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Check out our sponsor Soul Space Studio Step into a world where breath becomes your greatest ally, an ever-present guide that reminds you of your inherent ability to find calm amidst the day-to-day. Tap into your inner strength and create profound shifts in your physical, mental, and emotional well-being at work. Soul Space Studio workplace wellbeing workshops and programmes can help your teams: reduce stress levels, create thriving cultures, deepen connection, and expand creative flow. Check out - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.soulspace-studio.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more information USE CODE: COUNTEROFFER for 10% discount

In this episode Susanna welcomes someone with an incredible story. Somone who often blazed her own way to achieve success. Danielle Cobo, Author, Keynote Speaker, and Leadership and Sales Corporate Trainer joins the show to discusse her life as a mother, her new book 'Unstoppable Grit', and her definition of grit. Danielle shares her personal experiences with overcoming imposter syndrome, burnout, and the importance of setting courageous goals. She outlines her framework for goal setting, the Cobo Framework, and emphasizes the significance of identifying opportunities linked to achieving specific goals. She also provides insights into recognizing signs of stress and the importance of being intentional in daily routines. Connect with Danielle Cobo below: https://linktr.ee/DanielleCobo Unstoppable Grit Book Link:  https://amzn.to/4aMVbD0 Book Video:  https://vimeo.com/905826133?share=copy About Danielle:  https://www.daniellecobo.com/meetingprofessionals⁠  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellecobo/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedaniellecobo/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheDanielleCobo/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DanielleCobo Website: www.DanielleCobo.com  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@daniellecobo Unstoppable Grit YouTube: https://youtube.com/@UnstoppableGritPodcast?si=EeZHgq4cyZ3PbT9Q Unstoppable Grit Podcast with Danielle Cobo on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0ROM7ru95TF06XzKhTcO5V?si=M1eyb3ZvS8C_sjlz2EGbGg Unstoppable Grit Podcast with Danielle Cobo on Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unstoppable-grit-podcast-with-danielle-cobo/id15717976 Connect with ⁠⁠⁠⁠Susanna⁠⁠⁠⁠ Check out our sponsor Soul Space Studio Step into a world where breath becomes your greatest ally, an ever-present guide that reminds you of your inherent ability to find calm amidst the day-to-day. Tap into your inner strength and create profound shifts in your physical, mental, and emotional well-being at work. Soul Space Studio workplace wellbeing workshops and programmes can help your teams: reduce stress levels, create thriving cultures, deepen connection, and expand creative flow. Check out - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.soulspace-studio.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more information USE CODE: COUNTEROFFER for 10% discount

Today is another big show, with another big-name guest. Susanna welcomes Richard Smith, managing director of SALT in the Middle East and North Africa. He discusses his career trajectory from running a startup to leading the region's largest digital specialist recruitment firm. He and Susanna talk about the differences between corporate and startup environments, the significance of work-life balance, and his no-nonsense recruitment approach. Richard also shares insights on leadership versus management, the importance of coachability in recruiting, his future goals for SALT, and strategies for success. Connect with Richard Connect with ⁠⁠⁠Susanna⁠⁠⁠ Check out our sponsor Soul Space Studio Step into a world where breath becomes your greatest ally, an ever-present guide that reminds you of your inherent ability to find calm amidst the day-to-day. Tap into your inner strength and create profound shifts in your physical, mental, and emotional well-being at work. Soul Space Studio workplace wellbeing workshops and programmes can help your teams: reduce stress levels, create thriving cultures, deepen connection, and expand creative flow. Check out - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.soulspace-studio.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more information USE CODE: COUNTEROFFER for 10% discount

Welcome to season FOUR of The Counter Offer!  And Susanna isn't just kicking it off big, she's kicking it off huge! Today's guest is author, speaker, and renowned psychotherapist, Anna Mathur. She and Susanna discuss the importance of focus, mindset, and clear routines for achieving success. Anna shares her 'why' and the drive to help others with her psychotherapeutic knowledge and personal story. She explores the challenges of perfectionism, people-pleasing, social media, and burnout. They also give some peaks into Anna's new book on life's uncomfortable truths and offer advice on confidence, self-care, and managing stress in the modern world Follow Anna on IG @annamathur Pre-order Anna's upcoming book The Uncomfortable Truth publishing 8th August 2024 Check out our sponsor Soul Space Studio Step into a world where breath becomes your greatest ally, an ever-present guide that reminds you of your inherent ability to find calm amidst the day-to-day. Tap into your inner strength and create profound shifts in your physical, mental, and emotional well-being at work. Soul Space Studio workplace wellbeing workshops and programmes can help your teams: reduce stress levels, create thriving cultures, deepen connection, and expand creative flow. Check out - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.soulspace-studio.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more information USE CODE: COUNTEROFFER for 10% discount

She finally got her!! Susanna successfully welcomes Kati Lynch, a sales director with Tradwind, SANZA, with 20 years of experience, Kati shares her insights into the challenges and rewards of education recruitment, the importance of maintaining a positive, humble mindset, and the strategies for success and retention in this high speed industry. She and Susanna discuss  the value of relationship-building, active listening, and continuous learning for both personal growth and professional excellence. Find more about Kati Connect with ⁠⁠⁠⁠Susanna⁠⁠⁠⁠ Check out our sponsor Soul Space Studio Step into a world where breath becomes your greatest ally, an ever-present guide that reminds you of your inherent ability to find calm amidst the day-to-day. Tap into your inner strength and create profound shifts in your physical, mental, and emotional well-being at work. Soul Space Studio workplace wellbeing workshops and programmes can help your teams: reduce stress levels, create thriving cultures, deepen connection, and expand creative flow. Check out - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.soulspace-studio.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more information USE CODE: COUNTEROFFER for 10% discount

Who listening couldn't use some more inner peace, understanding and connection? Today Susanna has a special episode to take us away from the hamster wheel of professional life and into a more calm and inward looking space. She welcomes Transcendental Meditation (TM) experts Carlos Cervantes and Joana Feio to discuss the transformative impacts of TM on personal health, happiness, productivity, and relationships. Susanna shares her own experiences and talks Joana and Carlos about TM's benefits. They explore TM's effects on mental health, stress reduction, and overall life improvement, including how it enhances decision-making and energy levels. They also examine how TM differs from other meditation forms and provides guidance for beginners interested in learning TM. Find More about Carlos, Joana, and TM here Connect with ⁠⁠⁠Susanna⁠⁠⁠ Check out our sponsor Soul Space Studio Step into a world where breath becomes your greatest ally, an ever-present guide that reminds you of your inherent ability to find calm amidst the day-to-day. Tap into your inner strength and create profound shifts in your physical, mental, and emotional well-being at work. Soul Space Studio workplace wellbeing workshops and programmes can help your teams: reduce stress levels, create thriving cultures, deepen connection, and expand creative flow. Check out - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.soulspace-studio.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more information USE CODE: COUNTEROFFER for 10% discount

Today's episode is really exciting. Susanna is joined by one of the foremost thought leaders, speakers, and influence and persuasion coaches, Leopold Ajami. And Also joined by a co-host  Amanda Fox-Pryke, communications expert and business leader. Together they discuss the essence and practice of ethical persuasion, the importance of embodying personal values, and strategies for effective public speaking. Leopold introduces the concept of earning one's 'I' through philosophy, creativity, and communication. They dive into the science behind ethical decisions, counters common communication pitfalls, and emphasizes the significance of conveying one's personal brand and values authentically in professional settings. Connect with Leopold Ajami Connect with Amanda Fox-Pryke Connect with ⁠⁠Susanna⁠⁠ Check out our sponsor Soul Space Studio Step into a world where breath becomes your greatest ally, an ever-present guide that reminds you of your inherent ability to find calm amidst the day-to-day. Tap into your inner strength and create profound shifts in your physical, mental, and emotional well-being at work. Soul Space Studio workplace wellbeing workshops and programmes can help your teams: reduce stress levels, create thriving cultures, deepen connection, and expand creative flow. Check out - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.soulspace-studio.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more information USE CODE: COUNTEROFFER for 10% discount In a world where everyone's shouting, how do you ensure your voice doesn't just echo but leaves a mark?    Leopold Ajami is the designer behind leaders' most powerful tool: their voice. He's a Certified Public Speaking and Thought Leadership Coach—a proud founding member of the Cialdini Institute and a Cialdini Ethical Influence Coach and Consultant.   In 2019, he founded Novel Philosophy Academy to help ethical yet undervalued leaders design a voice that matches their worth.   His “Ph.C System,” which integrates philosophy, creativity, and communication, has helped leaders worldwide sharpen their thinking, amplify their influence, and build their brand as distinguished thought leaders. His training programs, coaching, consultancy, and unique frameworks are trusted by top executives from global giants like Google, Russell Reynolds, Apple, and GE.   Today, he's co-authoring a new book about ethical persuasion with top persuasion coaches worldwide.     Connect with Leopold on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/leopoldajami/ Website: https://www.novelphilosophy.academy

This is an incredible episode with the one and only Lysha Holmes. Known for her up front style and her compassion for others, Lysha gets real and opens up about her struggles with alcohol, her view of this issue within a target driven industry like recruitment, and her journey to sobriety. She emphasizes the importance of integrity, discipline, and dedication in achieving success as a recruiter, providing practical advice for individuals facing similar challenges. Susanna and Lysha also talk about getting back to basics after you have had a rough quarter, or feel off your game, and discuss ways to get back on track. Connect with Lysha Connect with ⁠Susanna⁠ Check out our sponsor Soul Space Studio Step into a world where breath becomes your greatest ally, an ever-present guide that reminds you of your inherent ability to find calm amidst the day-to-day. Tap into your inner strength and create profound shifts in your physical, mental, and emotional well-being at work. Soul Space Studio workplace wellbeing workshops and programmes can help your teams: reduce stress levels, create thriving cultures, deepen connection, and expand creative flow. Check out - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.soulspace-studio.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more information USE CODE: COUNTEROFFER for 10% discount

Leave it to Susanna to welcome another legend of recruitment. Today she is joined by the one and only Mike Ames, a longtime recruiter turned entrepreneur who has made substantial contributions to the industry. Mike talks about how he transitioned from IT to recruitment in the late '80s and recounts his experiences, including the challenges of starting his own recruitment business, the eventual sale of two successful companies, and his shift towards consultancy and coaching focused on helping recruitment firms achieve their goals without necessarily selling their business. Mike and Susanna dig into topics such as the importance of building relationships, the effectiveness of cold calling, and the transformative power of adopting a factory model over the traditional 360 recruitment model. Throughout the discussion, Mike emphasizes the significance of focusing on relationships, the value of patience in business development, and the critical role of recruitment business owners in understanding and adapting to market needs for long-term success. Find more about Mike Ames Check out our sponsor Soul Space Studio Step into a world where breath becomes your greatest ally, an ever-present guide that reminds you of your inherent ability to find calm amidst the day-to-day. Tap into your inner strength and create profound shifts in your physical, mental, and emotional well-being at work. Soul Space Studio workplace wellbeing workshops and programmes can help your teams: reduce stress levels, create thriving cultures, deepen connection, and expand creative flow. Check out - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.soulspace-studio.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more information USE CODE: COUNTEROFFER for 10% discount

In this detailed conversation, Helen Maguire, the co-founder of Diversely.io, shares her experiences and insights in diversity and inclusion in the business world. Having formerly co-founded Hopscotch.work, a women's career platform, Helen talks about building Diversely, and the problems that diverse individuals, particularly women, face in the industry and how steps can be taken to correct these imbalances. She also shares tips on how businesses and individuals can ensure they are being inclusive and unbiased in their recruitment and the positive change it can make in the business industry. Find out more and connect with Helen Connect with Susanna Check out our sponsor Soul Space Studio Step into a world where breath becomes your greatest ally, an ever-present guide that reminds you of your inherent ability to find calm amidst the day-to-day. Tap into your inner strength and create profound shifts in your physical, mental, and emotional well-being at work. Soul Space Studio workplace wellbeing workshops and programmes can help your teams: reduce stress levels, create thriving cultures, deepen connection, and expand creative flow. Check out - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.soulspace-studio.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more information USE CODE: COUNTEROFFER for 10% discount

Today Susanna is thrilled to welcome Glen Walsh, founder of three successful recruitment agencies, we explore his journey from a fledgling recruiter to a seasoned industry influencer known for his disruptive approach. Glen shares details about his recruitment practices, particularly how he operates a robust training model which focuses on 'success indicators' rather than monetary rewards. He also touches on the perception of long working hours in the recruitment industry and maintains that it's more about the intense hours than the length of the workday. Glen also reveals his companies' community outreach efforts, particularly their active role in educating children about life and career. Overall, Glen emphasizes building a recruitment business that promises joy, generates measurable benefits, and redefines success by making it a joyful, holistic experience rather than just a financial one. About Glen: Group CEO of Milk Education, Aspion Search, Advocate Group & MLK search.Glen is a dynamic Recruitment CEO with over two decades of expertise in recruitment and talent acquisition. Known for driving success across diverse industries, Glen excels in building high-performing teams and fostering strong employer & personal branding. Passionate about helping Recruitment Consultants to Directors realise growth potential & achieve personal financial goals. Connect with Glen Connect with ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Susanna⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Check out our sponsor Soul Space Studio Step into a world where breath becomes your greatest ally, an ever-present guide that reminds you of your inherent ability to find calm amidst the day-to-day. Tap into your inner strength and create profound shifts in your physical, mental, and emotional well-being at work. Soul Space Studio workplace wellbeing workshops and programmes can help your teams: reduce stress levels, create thriving cultures, deepen connection, and expand creative flow. Check out - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.soulspace-studio.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more information USE CODE: COUNTEROFFER for 10% discount

Welcome to the first episode of Season THREE of The Counter Offer!! And Susanna is kicking it off big by welcoming recruitment legend Greg Savage. Greg is an advisor for 16 recruitment companies and author of two incredibly influential books on recruitment. He and Susanna discuss the evolution of the recruitment industry as well as the influence of artificial intelligence and automation. They also explore methods to improve the hiring process, the importance of good training for new hires, and the growth in the number of recruiters able to bill high figures. Greg emphasizes the importance of self-belief, confidence professionalism, and continual growth as the key to making 2024 your best year of recruiting yet. Connect with ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Susanna⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Check out our sponsor Soul Space Studio Step into a world where breath becomes your greatest ally, an ever-present guide that reminds you of your inherent ability to find calm amidst the day-to-day. Tap into your inner strength and create profound shifts in your physical, mental, and emotional well-being at work. Soul Space Studio workplace wellbeing workshops and programmes can help your teams: reduce stress levels, create thriving cultures, deepen connection, and expand creative flow. Check out - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.soulspace-studio.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more information USE CODE: COUNTEROFFER for 10% discount

On this special bonus episode, Susanna welcomes Paul Prendergast. Paul is a British entrepreneur and Chief Executive of Nexus Partners now based in Dubai where he started his own business consultancy firm serving both local and international clients. With decades of experience in food technology, Paul talks about his career transition into business setup and consultancy, highlighting the variance in business cultures between the UK and the UAE. They discuss the business landscape in Dubai, providing advice for aspiring entrepreneurs planning to start businesses in UAE. Paul also breaks down the costs of setting up businesses in the region, advice on navigating the local bureaucratic processes such as obtaining trade licenses, medical insurance, and the economics of hiring support staff. This is a great episode not just for those thinking of moving abroad, but anyone who is contemplating making a big change. Connect with Paul Connect with ⁠⁠⁠⁠Susanna⁠⁠⁠⁠ Check out our sponsor Soul Space Studio Step into a world where breath becomes your greatest ally, an ever-present guide that reminds you of your inherent ability to find calm amidst the day-to-day. Tap into your inner strength and create profound shifts in your physical, mental, and emotional well-being at work. Soul Space Studio workplace wellbeing workshops and programmes can help your teams: reduce stress levels, create thriving cultures, deepen connection, and expand creative flow. Check out - ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.soulspace-studio.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ for more information USE CODE: COUNTEROFFER for 10% discount

From London to Dubai: Recruitment Success Story with Martina SikoraToday on The Counteroffer, Susanna welcomes a friend and fellow UK transplant, Martyna Sikora, Founder of unfiltered rec. Martyna is a dynamic recruitment entrepreneur who has been making waves in Dubai's recruitment scene. She shares her journey from starting her career in London to becoming a sought-after Rec2Rec in Dubai, sharing her struggles and successes along the way. She discusses the importance of resilience in recruitment, how she managed to establish her standout brand in a competitive market, and her ambitious plans for the future of her recruitment firm. Connect with Martyna Connect with ⁠⁠⁠Susanna⁠⁠⁠ Check out our sponsor Soul Space Studio Step into a world where breath becomes your greatest ally, an ever-present guide that reminds you of your inherent ability to find calm amidst the day-to-day. Tap into your inner strength and create profound shifts in your physical, mental, and emotional well-being at work. Soul Space Studio workplace wellbeing workshops and programmes can help your teams: reduce stress levels, create thriving cultures, deepen connection, and expand creative flow. Check out - ⁠⁠⁠www.soulspace-studio.com⁠⁠⁠ for more information USE CODE: COUNTEROFFER for 10% discount

Today is another big show featuring a high profile guest. Susanna welcomes Justin McGuire, Co-Founder of MCG Talent, a MENA and APAC focused Talent Consultancy.  He discusses his entrepreneurial journey in the recruitment space spanning different regions such as London, Dubai, Riyadh, Hong Kong, and Singapore. He talks about his professional experience with MCG Talent, the impact of strategic investments, and the nuances of setting up business in different locations. Justin provides invaluable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of market presence, personal branding, adopting a 'can-do' attitude, and finding the right balance between personal life and entrepreneurial goals. Connect with Justin McGuire Connect with ⁠⁠Susanna⁠⁠ Check out our sponsor Soul Space Studio Step into a world where breath becomes your greatest ally, an ever-present guide that reminds you of your inherent ability to find calm amidst the day-to-day. Tap into your inner strength and create profound shifts in your physical, mental, and emotional well-being at work. Soul Space Studio workplace wellbeing workshops and programmes can help your teams: reduce stress levels, create thriving cultures, deepen connection, and expand creative flow. Check out - ⁠⁠www.soulspace-studio.com⁠⁠ for more information USE CODE: COUNTEROFFER for 10% discount

In this episode of The Counter Offer, recruitment expert Susanna Gray Jones interviews Chris Redmond, CEO and co-founder of RedHolt. Chris talks about his journey from non-recruiting roles to becoming the head of a successful recruitment firm. He stresses the importance of authentic communication and openly discussing improvement areas with team members. He also details his health transformation after a severe medical check-up, and how it has helped him better comprehend the value of time and mental composure. Additionally, he and Susanna discuss how RedHolt uses AI-based psychometric evaluations for more effective recruiting. He highlights the importance of attitude in effective recruitment and also discusses parenting techniques that develop a strong attitude in children. Find more about Chris Redmond and RedHolt Connect with ⁠Susanna⁠ Check out our sponsor Soul Space Studio Step into a world where breath becomes your greatest ally, an ever-present guide that reminds you of your inherent ability to find calm amidst the day-to-day. Tap into your inner strength and create profound shifts in your physical, mental, and emotional well-being at work. Soul Space Studio workplace wellbeing workshops and programmes can help your teams: reduce stress levels, create thriving cultures, deepen connection, and expand creative flow. Check out - ⁠www.soulspace-studio.com⁠ for more information USE CODE: COUNTEROFFER for 10% discount

Today Susanna welcomes Stephanie Bateman, Owner and Managing Director at Educate Staffing.  She and Susanna talk about Stephanie's journey in educational recruitment from being an employee to establishing her own business. The conversation continues around balancing being a mother while running a business, the importance of resilience and drive in recruitment, and strategies for grooming new recruiters into successful team members. They also examine the unique challenges faced by women in a male-dominated industry. Stephanie provides genuine insight on how she overcame these challenges and shares her future plans for Educate Staffing. Find out more and connect with Stephanie Connect with Susanna Check out our sponsor Soul Space Studio Step into a world where breath becomes your greatest ally, an ever-present guide that reminds you of your inherent ability to find calm amidst the day-to-day. Tap into your inner strength and create profound shifts in your physical, mental, and emotional well-being at work. Soul Space Studio workplace wellbeing workshops and programmes can help your teams: reduce stress levels, create thriving cultures, deepen connection, and expand creative flow. Check out - www.soulspace-studio.com for more information USE CODE: COUNTEROFFER for 10% discount

This is an exciting episode! One of Susanna's good friends, a mentor, and who she co-hosted The Women Your Mother Warned You About podcast with, is here as a guest! Gina Trimarco, speaker, coach, best selling author, and a Master Sales Trainer at Sales Gravy is back behind the microphone to chat with Susanna. They have a wide ranging discussion about using improv as a modality in sales, overcoming social anxiety, and building confidence in social situations. Gina shares tips on preparation, using humor, and finding common ground with others and emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, self-talk, and being honest and authentic in conversations. Connect with Susanna via ⁠Chime Search Find more about Gina Trimarco and the Women Your Mother Warned You About podcast!

Another episode, another amazing guest. Roheel Ahmad, Co-Founder of Forsyth Barnes. He and Susanna delve into the journey of a successful business owner who started as a consultant and quickly co-founded their own business. He discusses his ambitious mindset, which was instilled at a young age, and the drive to succeed in his career. They also highlight the importance of understanding the value of retained recruitment and share advice for recruiters transitioning from contingent to retained models. The discussion also touches on the impact of bad hires and the cost involved, emphasizing the need for quality in hiring processes. Roheel also talks about the importance of building a supportive and diverse team and how they value team players over cutthroat top billers in their company's culture. Connect with Roheel Ahmad Connect with Susanna via Chime Search

Welcome back! Susanna brings you her first interview from Dubai, and it's a big one! She welcomes Jonathan Pryke, Director and Head of Private Practice at Taylor Root. Susanna tells the story of their chance meeting and shared careers which eventually led to this podcast episode. Jonathan provides insights into his recruitment journey, transitioning from a legal career to becoming a successful recruiter in the private practice legal market in Dubai. He emphasizes the importance of understanding candidates' needs, building relationships, and having a deep knowledge of the market. He also shares his discipline and consistent approach to recruitment, explaining the key factors behind his impressive billing year. The discussion delves into the unique aspects of the Dubai market, the role of relationships in recruitment, and the significance of being a true advisor to candidates. Jonathan's passion for changing lives through recruitment shines through as he discusses the personal and professional rewards of his career. Connect with Susanna via Chime Search

Today is Susanna's first episode from Dubai!! She is joined by part-time cohost Luke Smith to bring you a packed episode about her transition to the new country, acclimating to both culture (and temperature) and getting into some in-depth conversations about recruiting and crushing headhunting calls. She and Luke start by discussing the importance of work-life balance and maintaining personal goals while valuing personal and family time. Susanna speaks about her approach to recruitment, emphasizing the value of direct and honest communication with potential candidates. They give valuable insight and tips on reaching out to cold candidates, the significance of time discipline in their work, and how one of their biggest frustrations is with clients who don't act quickly in the hiring process. Connect with Susanna via Chime Search

Welcome back to Season 02 of The Counter Offer! Susanna is here with an incredible interview featuring the one and only Sarah Greer, an extraordinary sales trainer with over two decades of experience. They discuss the reality of leadership, Sarah's journey from college sales rep to coaching and mentoring sales managers worldwide, the difference between being a boss and a leader, and tackle the age-old question: are leaders born or made? Sarah's candid stories of her own struggles and triumphs in management are relatable and insightful. From handling superstar candidates to battling the burnout blues, her advice is gold. Connect with Sarah here  Connect with Susanna via Chime Search

Unlimited time off? Sounds great! But how does that work? Today's guest Craig Springett, Director of WhoFoundWho is here to tell us about that and so much more. Craig and his partner, Luke, embarked on a venture of their own after leaving their previous roles, and their strategic self-funding approach set the stage for remarkable achievements. With their unique culture, built on trust and autonomy, they've attracted top-notch talent who are achieving unparalleled results. Employing the innovative "Results Only Working Environment" strategy, they've abandoned rigid KPIs in favor of empowering their self-motivated workforce. Additionally, their refreshing "unlimited holiday" concept has garnered well-deserved attention. Join us to learn the secrets behind their happy workplace and continued success. Find more about Craig here

Today's show is a personal conversation between Susanna and her listeners. In her first solo episode Susanna talks about the the importance of considering a career change. She highlights the need to evaluate whether your skills are being recognized and if there's room for growth. Susanna goes step by step about why people stay in unfulfilling roles, and emphasizing the value of time and finding environments where you can thrive. She addresses reasons why people stay, like fear of not belonging and guilt imposed by companies. She encourages being open with your current employer and empowers listeners to prioritize their happiness and fulfillment in their careers. This is 13 minutes of some the best advice and tips you will get to decide whether you are willing to stay, or if you are ready to make the jump.

Today is another one of those big days. One of Susanna's most sought-after guests is on the show. Anthony Ianarino, international speaker, bestselling author, entrepreneur, and sales leader specializing in complex business-to-business (B2B) sales. He is also a founder and managing partner of two closely held, family-owned businesses in the staffing industry, leading both entities in strategic planning while growing sales. Anthony is best known for his work at The Sales Blog, which has helped him gain recognition as a top thought leader in sales strategy.  Luke and Susanna dive right in and ask about Anthony's ‘one up, one down' philosophy when engaging with prospects. Anthony gives incredible insight on how to succeed whether you are in either of those scenarios and how to use data to draw clients in and view you as a consultant and not just a seller. Susanna, Luke and Anthony also discuss the lost art of focus, books far outside of sales and recruitment that can help you to reach new levels of success, going on a negativity fast, reframing negative events, the ability to change other people's mindset, why most sales books are boring, and some sneak peaks at Anthony's new book. Connect with Anthony here Connect with Susanna via Chime Search

Today Susanna is joined by Co-Host Luke Smith, and guest Amy Morris, UK Managing Director at Oakleaf Partnership Limited. Amy is known for her dedication of fair representation in the workplace and she discusses how she fell into recruitment, how it became a career that held a purpose beyond making money, and her path up the ladder from that moment on. Susanna and Luke continue discussing loads of topics with Amy including the lack of representation of women in the C-Suite, company culture, how Covid changed men's perspectives, the HR dilemma, the pro's and con's of working in-house, advice on how to progress in your career, and so much more. ' Connect with Amy here Connect with Susanna via Chime Search

If you know anything about Lysha Holmes, you know that she tells it like it is and wears her heart on her sleeve. She also has 21 years of Rec2Rec under her belt and brings amazing stories and knowledge to share in this episode. She and Susanna talk about being both honest and kind, how much is too much to share on LinkedIn, having courage to meld your personality and brand, how real talk attracts people to you, how connecting personally creates deeper more trusting business relationships, addictive personalities vs. consistent performance, why you should treat your desk as your own business, and SO much more.   Listen to Lysha's Podcast Connect with Susanna via Chime Search

This is a BIG day!! Allison Walsh, JD, is an expert business consultant, founder, bestselling author, international speaker, and influential leader helping high stakes women build their confidence, grow their businesses, and elevate their personal brands. Goals provide accountability. Stick to micro-commitments in order to build momentum. Allison then spills her ‘secret sauce,' the biggest and most impactful frameworks that she uses with her clients which internalizes the process of reaching the goals you set for yourself. They discuss using past models of success, the compounding returns of persistence and consistency, setting reachable, shorter interval goals, and avoiding quitting after small failures. Allison also talks about recognising opportunity in an unstable economy, diversifying your income stream so the downturns are less impactful. They finish with a rapid-fire masterclass on how to approach personal branding. This episode is rich with wisdom, tips, tricks, and actionable advice.    Connect with Susanna via Chime Search Connect with Allison Walsh here Order Allison Walsh's best-selling new book here

Just when you thought the deal was done…Bam, enter the counter offer. A phenomenon so frustrating, Susanna named the podcast after it! But what if you could greatly reduce that situation from happening? Today Susanna and Luke give loads of advice and useful tips on how to avoid the counter offer from blindsiding you, resulting in more placements and more money in your pocket. On top of that, these techniques also result in happier clients and candidates. Connect with Luke and Envisage Search or via mobile - +447940920533 Connect with Susanna via Chime Search

In a time when many supply teachers are leaving the profession at a record rate, there is a strong belief that something needs to change. Zen Educate offer a refreshing way to ensure that education professionals get a better deal by reinventing the productivity and rewards offered in education supply. Slava begins with a little background and how one of his first business ventures scaled up and now his company Zen Educate that is in over a thousand schools in the UK, and growing rapidly in the USA. In a time when teachers are leaving the profession at a record rate, Zen Educate are helping to bring easy, convenient, quality matching, flexible roles to teachers at their fingertips, which can help to keep teachers doing what they love in a whole new way. Zen has a different approach to their company culture as well, and Slava has a passion for getting this right for teachers. Susanna also knows that some education recruiters who were ready to move onto something new have been reenergised after working with Slava and Zen Educate.   Find out more about Slava and Zen Educate Connect with Susanna via Chime Search

Susanna is so excited to introduce today's guest, Liza Al Sady, a former top biller in one of the UK's largest education recruitment agencies. Lisa is now a business manager at the company Investigo, working in change and transformation. A top performing recruiter, Lisa has been on a five year self-discovery journey in alternative therapies and wellness programs, and has discovered breath work therapy, which has changed her life. In 2022, she founded Soul Space Studio, who work with businesses all over the UK to manage stress in such high pressurized environments like recruiting. Liza knows the pressure of the business, and shares personal stories of how she self-medicated to get through and not have to deal with the everything around her. She then shares how to move away from that, how it changed her life and how it can change your life too. Find out more about Liza on LinkedIn and Soul Space Studio and Instagram and Linktree Connect with Susanna via Chime Search

Susanna and Luke are thrilled to have the group CEO of Tradewind Recruitment, Sanza Teaching Agency, and Accelerate Teaching making up one of the most influential Education Recruitment networks in the UK. Nick shares his background and journey to where he is today. They discuss Tradewind's reputation and how they stand out by they way they compensate their employees as a full, thoughtful package that rises out above the rest, and how they genuinely put their people first. Nick talks about how important rec to rec's are in getting the candidates they need, the actual and perceived threat of the tech market, the importance of mindset and attitude when hiring, and what the future holds. Find out more about Nick Murphy Find out more about Luke Smith Connect with Susanna via Chime Search

Today is a special show, Susanna has brought one of the top executive search recruiters around, Luke Smith of Envisage Search, to co-host today's episode with the amazing Louise Archer, Founder of Retrained Search. Louise talks about her background in recruitment and how she made the shift from contingent recruitment to winning the work on a retained basis, then moving to training others to do the same. She talks about the incredible diversification of sectors in her portfolio and the variety of methods in which she delivers her information. Susanna asks how contingent recruiters can make the switch when they feel there is too much pressure to deliver. Louise talks about her mindset trick to relieve this feeling. She talks about how to identify the existing clients you have that are best to transition to retained, why complete transparency is vital, the extra value you can deliver to clients, how to leverage information that the client has already gathered, when and who to trust, winning vs. delivering, the thing that will bite you in ass every time, and what's coming next for Louise. Learn more about Louise Archer Find out more about Luke Smith Connect with Susanna via Chime Search

Steve Guest is a busy man. Author, podcast host, keynote speaker, founder of the 12-Week Recruitment Mastery Programme, and one of the most experienced and knowledgeable recruiters around. Steve starts out by telling us how he fits it all in, and the time structure that is key to his productivity. He also has been branching out in marketing and webinars which was totally new to him, and he was unsure about how it would go, but Steve believes it's necessary to learn and stretch your abilities, even if it may fail, because he doesn't want to live a life of “what if's.” He gives excellent and simple tips on how to grow your personal brand, cold calling strategies, breaking the pattern when trying to get through to tough clients, how to differentiate yourself, and making KPI's work for you. Find Steve Guest on LinkedIn Get a copy of his book Top Biller Connect with Susanna via Chime Search

Welcome to episode one of The Counter Offer, and what a way to start! With over 40 years of experience and expertise in recruiting, today's guest is one of the most trusted and sought after voices in the industry. Greg Savage, advisor, author, keynote speaker, and founder of the Savage Recruitment Academy joins Susanna to kick off the premier of The Counter Offer Podcast. They get right into the valuable content with Greg giving his best tips on how managers can keep their recruiters performing at a high level and stay highly satisfied in their roles, and some of his advice may surprise you. Time, commitment, investment, and follow up are just a few of the points he delves into. He talks about the different paths in a recruiters career and how having an eye on management isn't always the best road. Greg also reveals his number one recruitment tactic for 2023, and goes in depth on all the different actions and strategies that go along with it. Susanna and Greg then discuss what recruiters should look for and what questions they should ask when joining a recruitment company. Greg also reveals some of the best secrets from his book ‘The Savage Truth,' a look at his new book that will be available soon, and a preview of what he will be talking about at the Recruitment Agency Expo. You can't miss a minute of this episode that is chock full of the best advice you'll hear from an industry giant. Find out more about Greg Savage Get Greg's Book, ‘The Savage Truth' Learn about The Savage Recruitment Academy Connect with Susanna via Chime Search