Why Sam Stafford Search (SSS)?

Rewind to 2010, no one could have ever convinced me that in 10 years’ time I would be launching an ethical recruitment business. Back then I had high hopes of becoming a lawyer and when I took my first role in recruitment (for a rec to rec start up one might add) it was solely a short-term thing.

Well I like to think that “falling into recruitment” was the best mistake that I ever made. Having worked in an international FTSE 250 consultancy, to start ups and boutique specialist agencies, it’s been a great ride so far and I’ve met some wonderful and brilliant people along the way.

Why HR?

I guess this is like asking why do you enjoy working with people? It’s a hugely important and at times confusing profession. You’re there for the people but to protect the business. At moments it seems an impossible task and the number of times I have spoken to people who have had trouble influencing decision makers in line with the law and best practice… well there’s a lot.

Most professionals I speak to get into HR to work with people and help them, as well as helping businesses flourish. To try and help businesses run in the most effective way because it’s through the people they hire and how they help them to work productively that they are a success.

I am passionate about HR, human resources, people strategy, whatever you might want to call it. I think the most efficient businesses are those that recognize looking after employees and supporting them will inevitably lead to success, better relationships and further business.

What’s in a name?

The number of sleepless nights spent deliberating over the name… Everything seemed too much, too little, too cheesy and with the gazillion other businesses out there, there aren’t that many names that haven’t been taken. So, I went with my own! How many more sleepless nights spent deliberating if this was right… a risk… the fear? Just a few.

According to one of my favourite writers, Pema Chodron, we should lean into our fears and learn to challenge them. So I did. Given that my initials – SS – might have negative connotations (I’m sure you can think of a few) my friends, family and colleagues helped to affirm that Sam Stafford Search was a solid strong sounding name, (see what I did there).

How to be different?

Our fundamental USP is that I, and in tandem the business, will always try and operate in the most ethical way possible and hence our values, additional consulting services (#SomethingExtra) and the network that runs alongside this.