My #CarterMurrayJourney – Jodie Clayton

I started my career in sales followed by advertising and media. In 2014, I decided I wanted a change and found an opportunity to become a recruitment consultant.

It took some getting used to as I transitioned from selling advertising to selling people but I honed my craft working at a well-known company managing their marketing and creative division for the Thames Valley and Midlands.

“One of my favourite things about working at Carter Murray is its culture and people who promote flexibility and a work-life balance.”

Nine years later in 2022, I joined Carter Murray to support marketing, digital, communications and design recruitment across retail, commerce and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) for the same regional areas.

The importance of a work-life balance

I live in Reading with my husband and little boy, balancing family time and home renovation with my full-time recruitment role. One of my favourite things about working at Carter Murray is its culture and people who promote flexibility and a work-life balance.

“When I interviewed for the role, I was nervous after time off work for my maternity leave but I immediately felt welcomed.”

I’m able to collect my little boy from nursery when I need to while supporting my clients and candidates. I didn’t have to earn the business’s trust – I felt valued from day one.

Working for a global brand

When I interviewed for the role, I was nervous after time off work for my maternity leave. But I immediately felt welcomed when I met my future team at Carter Murray. I see them as a group of professionals who are incredible at what they do with a collaborative nature that has earned them a globally powerful brand identity. We can always lean on each on each other.

Helping people and businesses grow

Above all, I love the personal aspect of my role and the long-term relationships I build with businesses and professionals. I almost feel like an extended member of their teams which I help create and grow. I love seeing people progress in their careers and finding the right business for them with the right culture. I’ve independently helped some businesses grow their marketing team by as many as 40 people.

“Sometimes recruitment is about using your gut instincts and experience.”

Though, I am selective with my clients. I work hard to understand exactly what candidates need and won’t place them somewhere that doesn’t feel right. Sometimes recruitment is about using your gut instincts and experience. I am always honest and that’s what gains trust from those I work with.

Facing challenges head on

I consider this particularly important when faced with challenges – such as a client who needs very specific talent or a candidate that might not be easy to place right away.

“If you’re considering becoming a recruiter, hold tight because it’s going to be a bumpy ride!”

I’m not fearful when it comes to going out and winning business if I know I can turn things around for the better and add value to that business when they’re looking to hire.

Thinking of becoming a recruiter?

If you’re considering becoming a recruiter, hold tight because it’s going to be a bumpy ride! When you first start out, there’s a lot to learn – including your market, candidates and clients. You can feel like a rabbit in the headlights but stick it out.

Once you’ve made your way through the first few months in bite-size chunks, keep moving forward and take the wins as they come. It’s worth the ride when you get there!

Get in touch with Jodie to discuss your career or hiring needs.