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QUICK FIRE 10 with Abigail Lee

“Be curious and keep learning, every day presents something new."

“Be curious and keep learning, every day presents something new. Never be afraid to ask questions and make mistakes.”

I had a few questions to ask Abigail Lee, senior consultant, and she shared the challenges she has faced, how she has overcome them and what has kept her in the recruitment industry.

1. How did you get into recruitment?

I was previously in Banking but was curious about opportunities within the recruitment industry. Surprisingly, the recruitment agency that placed me with my previous employer offered an opportunity to join them as a recruitment consultant.

It’s been almost 6 years and I’ve never looked back!

2. What is your advice for someone just getting into recruitment?

Be curious and keep learning, every day presents something new. Never be afraid to ask questions and make mistakes.


3. What is it about recruitment that has kept you in the industry?

My job satisfaction comes from knowing that I made a difference in someone’s career regardless if it’s large or small. From seeing candidates clinch their dream jobs or being able to advise people on their careers, it might sound cliché but it’s beyond just a job.


4. What is your proudest moment in your career to date?

Being one of the first few consultants to spearhead the growth of our private banking business. This industry works very differently and comes with its own unique set of challenges but we’ve committed to its expansion and have grown so much since then.


5. What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced in your career so far and how have you overcome that?

It’s probably this year. There were minimal activities in the Private Banking Front Office space in Q2 and all of us had to adjust to a new way of working.

With the uncertainty in the markets, it was a true test of resilience. I found myself relying on the basics and thinking even deeper, leaving no stones unturned to search for new business opportunities.

Thankfully, the markets are picking up as we have all adjusted quickly to the new normal.

6. What is your number 1 secret to success?

Never ever give up.


7. What’s the best career advice you’ve ever been given?

There have been a few. To listen more than I speak, being consistent and rigorous in my approach and to be adaptable.


8. What are you driven by and how do you stay motivated?

On a personal level, it means a lot to be able to provide for my parents because they have invested all they had in my siblings and me while growing up.

Professionally, I always feel motivated seeing how I have made a difference (small or huge) in someone’s career.


9. How do you keep a work / life balance?

I make it a point to spend quality time with my family and friends regularly with minimal distractions and encourage (or nag at) everyone to keep phones away during mealtimes etc.

I also enjoy exercising and often organized running sessions in the Singapore office before the pandemic. I definitely look forward to running with everyone again soon!


10. People would be surprised if they knew?

I’m very passionate about animal welfare and will always try to help wherever I can from cats’ rescue to making small donations to independent rescuers or feeders. Many of the independent rescuers or feeders usually face very high expenses so every bit counts!

#TeamEames #WhatDrivesYou #QuickFire10