The Jombone Interview Series gathers subject matter experts to discuss emerging concepts in staffing recruitment and management.   In this installment of the Jombone Interview Series, we speak with Eddie Diaz, Jombone’s Director of Sales and Business Development, and learn about active listening, the opportunities to be found in obstacles, and what fuels his drive to connect.

Q: If you could have any animal as a pet, regardless of practicality, what would it be?

I’d go for a majestic lion. I mean, who wouldn’t want a ferocious yet magnificent creature as their companion? It perfectly represents my passionate and goal-oriented nature. Plus, imagine the sense of empowerment and fearlessness that would come with having a lion by your side. Talk about making a statement!

Q: If you had to choose just one food to eat every day, what would it be?

That’s a tough one because I’m a total foodie. But if I had to choose, I’d go with pasta. It’s like a culinary adventure in every bite! The freshness of the spices, the delicate flavors, and the artistry that goes into their preparation captivate me. It’s a perfect blend of taste, aesthetics, and healthy eating. Pasta would definitely fuel my passion and keep me going strong.

Q: What’s your go-to karaoke song or guilty pleasure song?

Well, I’m not shy about showing off my singing skills… even though I’m a bad singer! My go-to karaoke song is Can’t Stop the Feeling by Justin Timberlake. There’s something about those powerful lyrics that gives me a good feeling. It’s my guilty pleasure anthem that never fails to get everyone around me feeling positive and happy.

 Q: Tell us about your background and how it has shaped your career path?

Coming from a humble background, my journey has been defined by hard work, resilience, and an unwavering belief in the power of trust and relationship building. Growing up, I learned the value of dedication and perseverance firsthand as I strived to create opportunities for myself. 

These early experiences instilled in me a deep appreciation for the importance of forging meaningful connections with others. As I embarked on my career, I carried this mindset, recognizing that success is not solely about individual achievements but also about building strong relationships and fostering trust. 

This perspective has guided my path, enabling me to create lasting partnerships, seize opportunities, and ultimately achieve the success I enjoy today. My background has shaped me into a results-oriented professional who understands the immeasurable impact of genuine connections in driving personal and professional growth.

 Q: How would you describe the role you play in Jombone, and what are the most challenging/rewarding aspects of that role?

The most challenging aspect of my role is navigating the dynamic and ever-evolving business landscape. It requires staying ahead of the curve, constantly adapting to new market trends, and making informed decisions aligning with our goals. 

Additionally, leading a new team presents its own set of challenges, such as building trust, fostering teamwork, and effectively managing diverse personalities and skill sets. However, it is precisely these challenges that make the role so rewarding. 

Witnessing the growth and success of the Jombone team and our clients, and knowing I played a pivotal role in shaping that progress, brings immense satisfaction. The opportunity to see individuals thrive, witness the positive impact we create, and contribute to the overall success of our clients is deeply fulfilling. Through these experiences, I find my passion and sense of purpose, driving me to excel in my role and make a lasting impact.

Q: How do you approach working with others, and what are some strategies that have helped you build strong relationships with colleagues and clients?

When it comes to working with others, I firmly believe in the power of listening, learning, and valuing the inputs of my colleagues. I approach collaboration with an open mind, recognizing that everyone brings unique perspectives and expertise to the table. 

One of the strategies that has helped me build strong relationships with colleagues and clients is active listening. I create an environment where individuals feel valued and respected by truly hearing and understanding their ideas, concerns, and feedback. 

I also make a conscious effort to learn from others – every interaction is an opportunity to learn. I recognize that I don’t have all the answers, and that a diversity of insights can lead to better outcomes. I actively seek out opportunities to leverage the strengths of my colleagues and encourage them to contribute their ideas and expertise. 

Additionally, I place a high value on open communication and transparency, fostering an environment where individuals feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and concerns. By creating a supportive and collaborative atmosphere, I have built trust and established strong working relationships based on mutual respect and shared goals.

 Q: What are some of the biggest challenges facing the staffing industry, and how do you navigate them?

The staffing industry is currently grappling with significant challenges amidst a backdrop of high inflation, rising costs, and low unemployment rates. 

Over the past two years, the global economy has witnessed a surge in inflationary pressures, leading to increased costs across various sectors. A tight labor market characterized by low unemployment rates has resulted in heightened competition for talent and increased wage demands. 

Staffing agencies are facing the dilemma of balancing meeting client demands for qualified workers while managing rising costs and navigating a challenging economic landscape. The need for creative solutions, such as upskilling existing talent pools, leveraging technology for efficient recruitment processes, and building strong employer branding to attract top talent, becomes crucial in overcoming these challenges. 

While the current environment poses obstacles, it also presents an opportunity for the staffing industry to adapt and innovate. By fostering strong partnerships with clients and candidates and providing value-added services to navigate the complexities of an inflationary economy, the staffing industry can drive meaningful workforce solutions in the face of evolving economic dynamics.