National Workforce’s presence in Queensland continues to grow, with job opportunities and partnerships being created across the state. However, this doesn’t happen on its own! Driven by Alana, our State Manager for Queensland, she leads the team to connect job seekers and clients from the sunshine state and beyond. We wanted to find out more about Alana, and her recruitment journey.
Alana, what was you first job?
I started as a Sales Administration for a telecommunications company. It was a great introduction to customer service, dealing with enquires and troubleshooting problems.
Did you know you would always work in recruitment?
No, I didn’t even know that recruitment was a thing when I left school! I fell into it after arriving in Darwin and starting in the Telstra call centre. They were looking for an onsite consultant, which I applied for, didn’t get it but was offered a recruitment consultant role running a temp desk. I had absolutely no idea what I was getting myself into at the time, or that it would end up becoming my career. It goes to show, that even the opportunities that don’t always seem like the right fit can be stepping stones!
Did you do any study?
I am currently studying to get my MBA, which I’m really enjoying.
How did you end up at NWF?
I met the Head of Branding and Growth, Annette Niven, about two years before starting with NWF. At the time, there wasn’t the right opportunity for me however, when, CEO, Jacqui Russell, was changing the business structure in 2020, the perfect role came up.
What’s the best part about your job?
As State Manager for Queensland, I work closely with the sales and operational teams to ensure that client needs are being met. I am part of the Senior Leadership team, where we work to ensure everyone in the team is across goals, achievements, and opportunities. I love being so involved across multiple areas of the business. Mostly, I love the culture, the team, the support, the ability to continue to grow and develop as well as work with others.
What advice would you give to someone wanting to be in your role?
Keep learning, be open-minded and patient. Build your network and support team. I also think it’s important to be passionate about what you do. Use the resources available at your fingertips to continue growing your knowledge in your field of choice, it’s never too late to learn something new! On top of that, find balance. Some may have seen pics of gorgeous horses and me on social media, it’s where I get my downtime and chance to clear my mind. Finding a balance between work and other parts of life is a must.
Was your path to your current role as you expected, or were there twists and turns?
It’s been a crazy ride since I entered the industry in 2000. However, I have continued a career path within the industry with a few wrong turns but it’s all a learning process.
Thanks, Alana! You can connect with Alana here.
