Long before Workday’s clever Super Bowl commercial declared, “You’re not a rock star,” one of my first mentors, Pam Siegal, was already using the phrase to describe our Most Placeable Candidates—standout professionals identified back when my journey in staffing began in 1984.

“Rock star” isn’t about pyrotechnics or platinum albums—it’s about work ethic, performance, initiative, and showing up when it matters. With a sprinkle of humor and decades of street-smart recruiting experience, here are several interconnected themes that define a unique approach to helping people land roles they love.

Every day is a rollercoaster of career-making moments—and the ride is still worth it.

In the whirlwind world of recruitment, for thousands of years, people have been interviewing and landing their dream jobs. A mentor once coined the phrase, “We represent rock stars!” So, christening these exceptional job seekers as Most Placeable Candidates (MPCs) became common practice. So, for 40 years, MPC’ing rock stars has been the norm, and then this “Work Day” TV ad comes along, and it’s like they’re reading our minds! Gene Simmons

In the realm of recruitment, stumbling upon candidates who are absolute rock stars in their fields is a daily occurrence. Our first theme draws inspiration from the “Work Day” commercial, where the message is as clear as a guitar riff: You’re not just another employee; you’re a rock star in your own unique way.

By celebrating the rock stars among us, we attract clients seeking top-notch talent and candidates considering exciting new opportunities through our services. And believe me, in the prehistoric days before fax machines, email attachments, LinkedIn, and all the fancy new portals, we had cab drivers delivering rock star resumes with handwritten notes for that instant impact!

“You Got Two Minutes”

Once a “Rock Star MPC resume” hits someone’s desk, it’s all about “Carpe Diem,” seizing the moment. Just like Melanie Griffith’s character in “Working Girl,” job seekers often find themselves with only two minutes to make a lasting impression. We all understand the importance of those elevator pitches. Recruiters work like a bunch of caffeinated squirrels to help job seekers craft stories that captivate and effectively showcase their skills within the precious two minutes they have to shine. Here is the link Working Girl –Elevator pitch

Outcome: Empowering candidates with the tools and confidence they need to make a strong case for themselves, flinging open the doors to exciting career opportunities. And remember, in those elevator moments, you can be the star of your own show!

Now, here’s the 180-degree twist.

Dealing with Job Loss Trauma

On occasion, more Kleenex is used in the office than at a movie theater showing a tearjerker. You know, statistics say losing a job can be as traumatic as losing a loved one! But here’s the curveball: who doesn’t love offering a helping hand to those in need? Providing support and guidance to individuals facing the dreaded reality of job loss.

Outcome: By extending assistance to those dealing with job loss trauma, we can throw them a safety net, letting them know they’re not alone on their journey to recovery. And yes, even those shedding tears today can become someone else’s rock star tomorrow!

Ultimately, recruitment isn’t just about matching skills to job descriptions; it’s about understanding the human side of the equation. So, while I’ve spent decades calling candidates “rock stars,” let’s be real: sometimes they just need a roadie, someone who can carry the gear, give them a pep talk, and make sure their mic is working for that all-important two-minute audition. Because, let’s face it, even the best rock stars need a little help with the soundcheck. 🎸🌟