Why I Joined The Headhunters: Joe’s Story
When I first connected with The Headhunters team…
I’ll be honest — I was in a different space in my career.
During my job search, I knew I wanted something different. Not just another role, but the right role — one that reflected with my experience, my values, and the way I want to serve clients. I had spent years building deep relationships, developing talent strategies that deliver real results, and leading with both empathy and business acumen. But I also wanted to be part of a team that truly gets it — where collaboration, creativity, and client-first thinking are more than just buzzwords.
When I first spoke with Bill, that sense of alignment was immediate. Our conversation wasn’t centered on title or company perks. It was about how we approach the work, how we support clients, and how we challenge ourselves to elevate the recruiting experience for everyone involved.
I had known Dan for several years. We’ve recruited in many of the same disciplines and share similar foundational recruitment philosophies. What stood out to me was hearing about his experience joining The Headhunters — the team dynamic, the environment, and the expectation to stretch beyond your comfort zone. Growth comes in many forms, and I was looking for a team that would value my experience, learn from it, and push me to continue evolving.
What Drew Me to This Next Chapter
When I first spoke with Bill, that sense of alignment was immediate. Our conversation wasn’t centered on title or company perks. It was about how we approach the work, how we support clients, and how we challenge ourselves to elevate the recruiting experience for everyone involved.
I had known Dan for several years. We’ve recruited in many of the same disciplines and share similar foundational recruitment philosophies. What stood out to me was hearing about his experience joining The Headhunters — the team dynamic, the environment, and the expectation to stretch beyond your comfort zone. Growth comes in many forms, and I was looking for a team that would value my experience, learn from it, and push me to continue evolving.
What Drew Me to This Next Chapter
In my next role, I wanted to lean into two strengths that have defined my career:
- Continuing to build authentic relationships and networks that open doors and create meaningful opportunities for both clients and candidates
- Bringing technical expertise and thoughtful talent strategies that help organizations navigate uncertainty and growth with clarity and confidence
I wasn’t looking for just a seat at a desk. I wanted to keep building solutions that matter — alongside people who value long-term impact.
The Moment It Clicked
There was a point in the interview process that truly crystallized everything for me. Bill and I began talking about several mutual connections — professionals we’ve each worked with from different angles and stages of their careers. In that moment, it became clear that our networks and experiences didn’t just overlap — they complemented each other.
I could see how our strengths would play off one another to better support clients, solve complex challenges, and grow the business together.
That’s when everything came together.
I wasn’t just excited about joining a strong team — I was excited about what we could build together.
I’m genuinely energized about this next chapter: the partnerships ahead, the relationships we’ll deepen, and the meaningful value we’ll continue creating for both clients and candidates.
Joe Shanbaum is an executive recruiter with The Headhunters. Learn more here.