#WeAreGreenKey: Spotlight on Mariam Abdallah
Welcome back to #WeAreGreenKey, where we shine a spotlight on our powerhouse recruiting team.
Mariam Abdallah, Recruiter on our Accounting and Finance team, brings over three years of experience in recruiting, with a specialization in the accounting and finance sectors. Throughout her career, she has developed a keen understanding of the industry’s unique demands and challenges. Mariam’s journey in recruitment has been marked by a dedication to helping professionals find their ideal roles and supporting businesses in building strong, effective teams.
What inspired you to pursue a career in accounting support/financial services recruitment?
Originally, I was a health major, but a friend pointed out that I had a great personality for recruiting. At the time, I had no idea what recruiting even was, but I decided to give it a try. I eventually found myself in the field of accounting and finance recruiting, discovering a passion for helping people navigate these complex areas. Working with accounting and finance professionals, I realized how crucial their roles are in running a business. This experience allowed me to learn about their work and appreciate the intricacies of their field. I fell in love with the process and decided to stick with accounting and finance. It’s incredibly rewarding to support these professionals and contribute to the success of businesses.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
What I enjoy most about my job is definitely the relationship aspect. Helping people and creating meaningful connections is incredibly rewarding because, at the end of the day, you’re assisting them in providing for their families or themselves. It’s a feel-good moment for both parties. These relationships often lead to referrals and continued support, whether from friends or family. Being there for them, listening, and supporting them from day one is the best feeling ever. It’s all about being able to say thank you and knowing you’ve made a positive impact.
How do you stay updated with the latest trends and changes in the industry?
I find online resources incredibly helpful, especially ChatGPT. Despite some mixed feelings about it, ChatGPT provides valuable assistance. Additionally, talking to people in the industry is crucial. They offer the latest information on salaries and market trends. Engaging with people in the market is the best way to get accurate and reliable information.
What strategies do you use to find and attract top talent in the accounting and financial services sectors?
To find and attract top talent within the accounting and finance sectors, it’s crucial to understand what candidates are looking for. Even during the initial call, gathering insights from candidates, even if they aren’t a fit for the current role, is valuable for future placements. Many accounting and finance professionals experience burnout, so understanding their needs and providing what they seek is key. Flexibility, work-life balance, and career growth opportunities are often top priorities. While many are returning to on-site work, focusing on the benefits that matter to them can make a significant difference. By addressing these needs, we can better attract and retain top talent who are looking to advance their careers.
How do you balance the needs of your clients with the career aspirations of the candidates you work with?
Balancing the needs of clients with the aspirations of candidates often involves educating the client about the current market. Clients sometimes seek very niche skills, so it’s important to provide them with realistic expectations. We present multiple candidates for the same role and gather feedback to understand why a candidate may not be a fit, even if they seem ideal. This feedback helps us advise the client on potential flexibility, such as considering hybrid roles. Educating clients about market realities and available talent helps in finding the right fit, even if it takes longer.
What trends are you currently seeing in the accounting support/financial services job market?
Besides the return to the office trend, another significant trend in the accounting and finance industry is the preference for remote work. Many professionals feel they can effectively perform their roles from home since their work primarily involves numbers. Additionally, candidates are seeking higher salary ranges, aiming to maximize their earnings in a competitive market.