Name: Jonathan Wylie
Astrological Sign: Sagittarius
Year Joined Major, Lindsey & Africa: 2018
What attracted you to Major, Lindsey & Africa?
I was working for two competitors for about 8 years prior and I would always come up against MLA for pitches and more often that not I lost out to MLA. I also regularly saw posts on social media about the great placements they made in addition to the high-quality events they held and speakers they featured. I wanted in, to be a part of it, so when the opportunity arose, I jumped at it with everything I had. Haven’t looked back since.
What is the best part of your job?
Like most consultants, I enjoy finding people their ideal job. It’s even better when you hear from them years later about how much they are thriving and enjoying their role. Better still, is when you can help the same person for a second or third time. Rare, but it happens.
What is the most surprising part of being a recruiter?
People are unique. Companies and cultures are unique. So even though at times the ‘process’ can be the same. Every search and every person is entirely different. There are always twists and turns at every step. That’s what keeps it interesting and challenging.
How would you describe your career in 5 words or less?
I could write a book.
Describe one of your successes thus far at Major, Lindsey & Africa.
I really think it’s the team that we’ve created. It is well balanced, and we have a level of humility, generosity and transparency that I feel is quite unique in a sales-oriented environment.
What advice would you give to someone considering becoming a recruiter?
It’s an extremely fun and dynamic job. First and foremost, you need to be interested in people. There has to be a natural curiosity there and it has to be sincere. You can’t force it. You need a service mindset—a desire to help. If you don’t have that, then this role will not motivate you. Like most professional services roles, you need to be able to listen better than you speak. Hear what is being said and more often than not what isn’t being said. Ask the hard questions. It’s a demanding and often time sensitive job. You need a be able to absorb the pressure when it comes, stay cool, and remember to enjoy the good times as well. But above all, don’t take it too seriously. It’s not brain surgery we’re doing here.
If you weren’t a lawyer or a recruiter, what career would you have had?
I always dreamed of being a Lord of Leisure. A kept man. Like Lord Grantham of Downtown Abbey! Alas, it wasn’t meant to be.
What is on your bucket list?
My ultimate bucket list goal is to retire to Italy.
