EDITOR’S NOTE: Learn more about the people behind recruitAbility. We’re profiling each of our employees to shed light on their career paths, what they do in their free time, lessons they’ve learned, and much more. View all profiles here.
Last month we welcomed Kristen Cusick to recruitAbility’s recruiting team. Cusick is a veteran of the recruiting field and she specializes in connecting employers with those skilled in finance and accounting.
See below to learn more about her background, what she’s been doing at recruitAbility, and what she enjoys outside of the office.
Describe your role at recruitAbility.
I am a Sr. Recruiter for the Finance and Accounting department, but I also specialize in sales and marketing roles as well.
What made you want to work in recruiting?
I started my career in recruiting over 10 years ago when I moved to Austin and went through a staffing firm to find a job. I ended up taking an internal role at the staffing firm and moved into recruiting. I realized very quickly that recruiting was challenging, yet very rewarding and I fell in love. I haven’t looked back since and have continuously grown and improved my recruiting skills.
What’s your favorite part of recruiting?
As mentioned above, the challenge and reward are some great aspects to the role. However, I also love learning and being able to grow not only as a recruiter, but as an individual as well. I have had to learn to step out of many of my comfort zones while in recruiting, and it has helped me learn more about myself and what I am capable of doing through the years.
What made you want to join recruitAbility?
I wasn’t necessarily searching for a new position at the time; however, I have known Nad since day one of my recruiting career (so over 10 years). I worked with him at my first recruiting company for 5 years, and I knew how intelligent, passionate, and what a great leader he was. So, when he reached out to me, there was no way I could pass up the opportunity to be part of his team and company vision.
Do you have a favorite business book or podcast?
The Lean Startup – Eric Ries
What’s your favorite part about living in Austin?
I lived in Austin for 5 years before moving back to Houston, but now that I am back in the area, I don’t actually live in the Austin city limits. I live in a much smaller town called Wimberley that is very much a tiny tourist town. I love living there right on the water, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, but I’m close enough that I can get to downtown and the various Austin events within 30-45 minutes.
Favorite spot to get food in Austin?
There are way too many to choose from! I love eating at hole-in-the-wall places, food trucks, large restaurants—you name it. I just love food in general and there are just too many great options in the Austin area to pick my favorite.
What do you enjoy doing outside of the office?
I love being outdoors. I enjoy hunting, fishing, traveling, trying new restaurants, going to breweries/wineries/distilleries, hanging out with family and friends, cuddling with my cats while lounging around the house watching Netflix, and taking my beagle puppy out on new adventures.