We recently sat down with Jon – EVP in Healthcare, specializing in the Registered Nurse market within Californian Hospital Networks. Jon is a newer member of the Los Angeles team, bringing seven years of recruitment experience to the GQR family. Read on to learn more about his experiences!
“Let’s start by discussing why you chose to join GQR.”
- What was the deciding factor for choosing to join GQR?
Ultimately, the decision came down to three things for me: - The People: everyone I met had great energy, but most of all, a vision for the future. This is something that inspires me and drives me towards success.
- The Opportunity: I recognized early on that I wanted the opportunity to work with GQR. I didn’t want a specific job or role. It became clear that the focus on growth was immense and I knew it was something I wanted to be part of.
- The Future: GQR is continuously pushing the envelope for progress. With new technologies rolling out, a dynamic culture, an open and fun environment, there is no better organization to be a part of!
- What made GQR stand out for you during your interview process?
The process was extremely thorough. That may be a turn off to some people but, I actually appreciated the fact that GQR took the time to ensure I was a good fit for them. But also, and just as importantly, that they were a good fit for me. Aside from the process itself, I connected immediately with Hugo and Sam and recognized quickly that working together would pave the way for massive growth. - What does GQR offer that was previously unavailable to you?
The technology is tremendous, that really stands out. However, beyond just this aspect, the resources and team around me are truly incredible. There is a clear vision and structure to how other departments work together to achieve what I call Mission: Growth. To have so many different people, with diverse backgrounds and functions, working together to move the business forward in a positive way, is inspiring. - How did GQR’s strategic pillars factor into your decision to join the business?
From a market strategy perspective, these ideals lead GQR into open, blue oceans where rather than compete in oversaturated, competitive markets driven by price, GQR leads new market creation driven by value. Becoming a subject matter expert is critical to adding significant value in the human capital space and by specializing, the team can become consultative partners to those we serve. Think of that, but on a global scale, and you have GQR. As we look at ways to expand our reach, we collaborate across the world with other offices, clients, and candidates alike. Specialization, Globalization and Collaboration sit at the foundation of these keys to success and were critical in my decision to join the team.
“Let’s talk about what your experience has been like so far.“
- How does GQR’s L&D platform compare to your last company?
There is no comparison. GQR is heads and tails above any other company I have worked for. It is refreshing to see a company invest time and resources in training its employees the right way. - How does GQR’s platform offer you greater exposure into your market?
GQR is thinking beyond traditional recruitment models. Ultimately, the company’s branding builds familiarity throughout global markets. For healthcare specifically, we have the opportunity to impact the lives of the patients that our candidates and clients work with on a massive scale. - How does the idea of “success” differ at GQR from your previous employer(s)?
Success at GQR is a mindset, not just a performance measure. My previous employers mostly focused on numbers, but at GQR, the team focuses on the people, too. - What do you like most about working out of the Los Angeles office?
The people are great! Everyone is friendly, helpful, and supportive. The office space is brilliant, too. Overall, I am just excited to be part of building something big here. Los Angeles is going to continue to scale up and that’s a special thing to be part of!“How about we dive a bit more into your background?”
- Highlight one thing you’ve mastered in terms of industry expertise and/or recruitment.
I think for me, it’s inspiring my teams to think bigger than what’s right in front of them. I am a big believer in understanding the “Why” for each person and then helping them understand how success in recruiting ultimately leads to success in other areas of their lives. I’ve also become a skilled negotiator between the professional and the client to bring both parties together. Personally, I think this is often overlooked in terms of maintaining control of the flow of information. - What is the biggest misconception about the market you work in?
Specifically, thinking about nursing in healthcare, people assume there are a lot of nurses in the market. Though the volume of nurses for recruitment purposes is good, the reality is the demand far outweighs the true supply of licensed nurses who graduate their programs and can support the patient volumes of local hospitals and systems support. The demand will grow by 10% over the next 10 years. As a populous, we need more nurses!
“Let’s get a little personal…”
- What’s the best mistake you’ve ever made?
To be honest, I think every mistake I’ve ever made is GOOD. A mantra I live by, in fact, is just the word GOOD. No matter what happens to me, I find the best in the situation because I am able to glean something positive from any experience. You either win or you learn; there are no mistakes or losing if you change your mindset! - What was your very first job?
I was a bag boy at Von’s when I was 15. - What books are currently on your nightstand?
Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink, Principles by Ray Dalio, Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek and Blue Ocean Shift by W. Chan Kim
