In this insightful episode of Recruiting Trailblazers, Marcus dives into the journey of Tom Willis, a successful recruitment entrepreneur who made a significant leap from being a recruiter in the hustle and bustle of London to establishing his own thriving recruitment firm, Placed, in the United States. With over three years of experience in London and five in Los Angeles, Tom shares his unique journey, the challenges he faced, his vision for Placed, and invaluable advice for aspiring recruitment entrepreneurs.

How did Tom Willis get into the recruitment industry?
Tom mentions he fell into recruitment, much like many in the industry, through familial connections and an unexpected interview at Michael Page.

What inspired Tom to start his own recruitment agency?
The vast potential of the U.S. market compared to the U.K., highlighting the immense opportunities due to higher salaries and less competition in recruitment.

Why did Tom choose to work with an investor instead of starting independently?
He discusses the advantages of having support and resources, which allowed him to scale his business more rapidly than if he were on his own.

What strategies has Tom employed to grow his business?
Focusing on a niche market, building strong local connections, and emphasizing the personal touch in recruiting were key.

How does he differentiate his agency in a crowded market?
By returning to traditional, relationship-based recruitment and offering service unmatched by competitors.

What are Tom’s hiring strategies for his firm?
He looks for experienced recruiters or sales professionals who fit the company culture and are aligned with the company’s long-term vision.

What challenges has Tom faced, and how does he plan to overcome them?
Candidate generation is a significant hurdle. Tom is exploring technology and partnerships to improve reach and efficiency.

The 3 Biggest Takeaways:

1. The Importance of Niche Specialization: Tom’s focus on a specific market segment, like construction recruitment in the Midwest, has been crucial for establishing credibility and attracting clients.

2. Investor Support: Working with an experienced investor has not only provided financial backing but also mentorship, helping navigate early business challenges and scale effectively.

3. The Power of Relationships:  Despite the digital age’s convenience, Tom underscores the irreplaceable value of building genuine, face-to-face relationships with clients and candidates, proving this approach still holds significant weight in recruitment.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/thetomwillis/