Meet Our Recruiters

Yolanda Mitchell

Talent Acquisition Specialist

yolanda-mitchell
What do you do and why is it important?

I work with our Behavioral Health Services (BHS) and Developmental and Community Services (DCS) teams in West Michigan. I mostly recruit for our entry-level Direct Care positions, and also for our union positions. It’s important because our Direct Care staff are the meat of Hope Network.

How did you get into recruiting?

I had just graduated from Cornerstone University and was looking for work. One of my best friends was working at a small recruiting firm out of Grand Rapids and told me about a Human Resources (HR) internship they had available. I was already out of school and wasn’t sure about taking an internship, but she talked me into it and from there my career skyrocketed. I started as an intern, six months later I was a part-time employee, and within one year I was a full-blown recruiter.

What’s your favorite type of job to recruit for?

I’ve recruited for everything from entry-level to executive-level jobs, but I enjoy those entry-level roles the most. The gratitude and satisfaction from people getting their first job offer is so rewarding.

What does a good day of recruiting look like for you?

When I hear the words “I accept!” But also when we find talent in new places. Talent isn’t always readily available for us, so any time I can make connections with individuals who weren’t already considering careers at Hope Network is a good day.

What can jobseekers do to stand out right now?

I can’t stress enough how important it is to have your resume align with the type of job you’re looking for. Make sure the formatting and the grammar are strong. I should know who you are as a person from your resume before I even call you.

You’ve been in recruiting for more than 10 years. What’s the biggest change you’ve noticed in the field?

Social media. When I started it was just cold calling candidates. But now, potential hires are easily accessible on social media. It really helps.

Where do you hope your career in recruiting takes you?

Community engagement is something near and dear to me. I was previously a community liaison here at Hope Network. I enjoy what I do in recruiting, but ideally my career at Hope Network will allow for me to get out into the community and build relationships.

If there was an “Academy Awards of Recruiting,” what type of awards would you be nominated for?

I’m not good at bragging about myself! But I’d probably be nominated for “Achievement in Community Connection” and “Best Candidate Experience.”