Today we’d like to introduce you to Constance Jones.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I have always had a passion for talent and development. The agency’s origins can be traced back to my kitchen table, where I began my consulting firm. Despite limited resources, I displayed remarkable resourcefulness from my retail and security days and determination, leveraging my network and expertise to provide valuable consulting services.
At its inception, I worked with Fortune 500 companies in retail and private security. Recognizing the immense potential in partnering with these top-tier organizations, understanding the significance of their workforce and the impact it has on corporate success.
Working with diverse companies allowed me to gain valuable insights into the challenges surrounding employee retention and community engagement. One recurring issue I noticed was the limited retention plans and strategies implemented by these organizations. Often, companies focused solely on traditional methods of recruitment and failed to tap into the potential of the communities in which they operated.
The need for a fresh approach to identifying qualified candidates who may be overlooked by conventional recruitment practices. I understood that there were talented individuals within local communities who could bring unique perspectives and skills to these companies. With this in mind, my team and I developed a methodology to identify, connect, and place these overlooked candidates into positions that aligned with their qualifications.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Entrepreneurship is far from a smooth road – any entrepreneur will attest to that. My experience in building HJ Staffing from my kitchen table was no exception. We encountered numerous hurdles along the way, including the struggles of securing financial support and the complexities of managing government accounts as a qualified prime vendor.
On the financial front, traditional banks were skeptical about providing support in the risk industry of staffing. However, we pressed on and found alternative funding sources, devising innovative solutions to finance our business.
Obtaining the esteemed status of a “qualified prime vendor” brought its advantages, such as priority status when bidding on government contracts. However, in an industry where routinly used suppliers hold a stronghold, HJ Staffing faced significant barriers as a newcomer. Nevertheless, we persevered, immersing ourselves in the intricacies of government contracts, attending conferences, expanding our team, and obtaining the necessary credentials to establish ourselves as equals in the market.
But it’s not just the work side that presents challenges. Balancing the demands of running a household and raising a family alongside building a business has been a struggle itself.
As an entrepreneur, I find myself constantly wearing multiple hats and rarely getting the chance to set them aside. Fortunately, I am blessed with a supportive family who truly understands and embraces my vision and mission. However, there are moments when the guilt of not being able to spend more time with my children creeps in. On top of that, hearing negative comments from other family members about the few hours missed can be disheartening. Nevertheless, I’ve learned to let go of the negativity and find joy in other ways, such as coaching my daughter’s sports team, where I can create precious memories with my children.
Overall, what may have seemed like insurmountable obstacles became steppingstones on our entrepreneurial journey at HJ Staffing. By adapting quickly and finding innovative solutions, we have overcome the hurdles and continue to push forward.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next, you can tell us a bit more about your business.
At HJ Staffing, our mission is clear: to connect talented individuals with esteemed organizations, facilitating mutually beneficial partnerships that drive growth and success. We believe that the right fit between employer and employee is the key to long-term, sustainable success in the modern workplace.
HJ Staffing specializes in comprehensive talent acquisition and workforce management services. Our expertise spans various industries, ensuring that clients receive tailored solutions based on their unique needs. From executive-level hires to large-scale workforce transitions, HJ Staffing is known for its ability to deliver exceptional results and find the perfect match for every position.
What sets HJ Staffing apart is its unwavering dedication to human connection. We recognize that people are at the core of every organization’s success. By prioritizing open communication, fostering meaningful relationships, and understanding the individual aspirations of both employers and employees, HJ Staffing takes a holistic approach to talent acquisition. Their personalized touch, combined with their extensive industry network, allows them to go above and beyond in connecting the right talent with the right opportunities.
HJ Staffing takes immense pride in our reputation as a trusted partner to organizations, state and local entities, and the communities we serve. We have successfully placed overlooked candidates with unique skill sets into positions that align with our client’s talents, creating positive impacts on individuals, families, and communities. We are proud to have made a difference in the lives of those who may have been overlooked by other agencies, nurturing diversity and inclusivity in the workforce.
HJ Staffing’s brand is built on integrity, innovation, and a passion for transformation. Our offerings and services are designed to cater to the ever-evolving needs of organizations and job seekers alike. From talent acquisition, executive search, and workforce planning to customized solutions for state and local entities, HJ Staffing prides itself on being a one-stop solution for all recruitment and talent management needs. They are committed to facilitating the growth and prosperity of individuals and organizations by fostering strong connections and delivering exceptional results.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The most pivotal lesson we have learned on our journey at HJ Staffing is the undeniable importance of partnerships. In an industry like human resources or human capital, you would assume that agency owners would naturally rally together for partnerships and support. However, the reality can be quite lonely and isolating.
But instead of succumbing to this isolation, we took it upon ourselves to build a network of like-minded agency owners who shared our vision of growth and community. We sought out supportive individuals who understood the power of collaboration and the potential that lies within strong partnerships. Together, we have created a thriving network that not only helps us grow our business but also fosters a sense of community and support.
These partnerships have not only opened doors of opportunities but have also provided us with a safe space to exchange ideas, share challenges, and celebrate successes. Through these relationships, we have learned that the power of collective wisdom and mutual support can propel us further than we ever imagined.
So, the lesson we cherish deeply is this: no matter how challenging the industry can be, the power of partnerships can transform it into a thriving community where growth is not just attainable but also enjoyable. It is this belief that drives us at HJ Staffing, and we are grateful every day for the supportive agency owners who have joined us on this journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.hjstaffing.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/
hjstaffing - Facebook: facebook.com/
hjstaffing - Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/
company/hjstaffing - Twitter: twitter.com/
hjstaffing
Image Credits
MXO Photography LLC
