In our interview series, we are thrilled to introduce Antonio, our new Recruitment Consultant for Germany. With a strong background in psychology and a passion for understanding human behavior in the workplace, Antonio brings a unique perspective to our team.
Learn about his journey, insights into the recruitment process, and his approach to building meaningful relationships within the treasury community. Let’s kick off!
Can you tell us about yourself, your background, and your experiences?
My background is in psychology. I’ve always had a keen interest in human behavior and understanding why we do the things we do. That’s why I began studying psychology, focusing on the science of human behavior.
I quickly realized I didn’t want to pursue therapy or research, but rather apply psychology in a work setting. This led me to pursue a master’s in work organizational psychology.
What attracted you to a career in treasury recruitment, and what do you find most exciting about this field?
I wanted to work with humans in a professional context. As a psychologist, finding connections between seemingly unrelated elements is a key skill. This aligns perfectly with recruitment, where the goal is to find the ideal match between a candidate and a company.
What are the biggest differences between the Netherlands and Germany when it comes to candidates and clients?
The primary difference is formality. Germany is much more conservative in its approach and hierarchical structures. In the Netherlands, using first names is common and comfortable, but in Germany, I wouldn’t do that unless I was sure it was acceptable.
Can you explain your approach to networking and relationship-building within the treasury community?
My approach is to ensure people understand that we are here to benefit them, not to sell or enforce anything. When I reach out, I emphasize mutual benefit. My goal is to help candidates find jobs they genuinely appreciate and to ensure they see our interaction as a positive and helpful experience.
What motivates you about recruitment?
I’m passionate about recruitment because it offers a unique opportunity to create a positive, impactful experience for candidates. I genuinely want to get to know candidates personally and present them accurately to clients. This thorough, personal approach ensures that both parties feel understood and satisfied with the recruitment process.
What do you believe are your biggest strengths when it comes to building relationships with candidates and clients?
Being German, I understand the culture and approach to business here. I’m thorough and a good listener, ensuring I fully understand and remember the details of each candidate’s profile. This attention to detail helps candidates feel valued and clients see the benefit of our thorough recruitment process.
What advice would you give to candidates looking to advance their careers in treasury?
While I don’t work in treasury directly, I know the recruitment process well. My top advice is to keep your LinkedIn profile up-to-date and thorough. Describe your roles, experiences, and a bit about yourself. A complete LinkedIn profile allows recruiters and employers to understand you better and connect you with relevant opportunities.
If there is one quote you would give others as advice, what would it be?