Getting to Know Cindy Harp, Staffing Manager of The Lee Group’s Chesapeake, Virginia Office

After more than two decades working in the staffing agency, Cindy Harp has learned a lot of lessons and has great advice to give, both to companies looking to hire and people looking for jobs and upward mobility in their careers.

We sat down with Cindy, Staffing Manager at The Lee Group’s office in Chesapeake, Virginia, to get to know her more. Enjoy!

What was your first job?

Working for Hardees on Atlantic Avenue in Virginia Beach. I had started in the summer and I remember the lines out the door all summer long. At that time, they did not have any places where you could just come off the beach and eat.

What is the best job advice you ever received?

Always enjoy what you do and try and learn something new every day.

What is the best job advice you ever gave?

Have fun at your job, stay positive and learn all you can. It will make you a valuable team member and the client will recognize your value to their company.

What motivated you to go into the staffing field?

I had moved back to the area and was looking for a job. I had never registered with a staffing agency or even thought of using one, so I scheduled an appointment with The Lee Group. I was hired the next day as their switchboard operator. As the years went by I was taking on more responsibilities and had been asked several times if I would like a role as a Staffing Manager. I had always said no. Then one day I gave it a try and 21 years later I still love what I do.

What are the biggest challenges out there for people searching for jobs today?

Finding a position that is right for them, not settling on anything because you need a job and are out of work.

What are the biggest challenges out there for companies looking to hire great team members today?

If the candidate is the right fit consider hiring them or they will get picked up quickly by another company. Experienced candidates don't stay unemployed for very long. Companies need to have a positive working environment, recognize and reward employees, keep them happy so they don't search elsewhere for employment.

Can you recall a time where you saw the real impact a job, or having the right person working for a company, made in someone's life?

There have been so many in my years with The Lee Group. I really enjoy talking to employees after they have been hired by our clients especially in the manufacturing industry. They work so hard to get to that point that when a client hires them they are so excited to be able to give more to their family with salary increases and benefits, and at that point you know we did our job.

What trends do you see in today's job search and hiring world?

People leaving a job position before having another one. Then they start applying for any job whether they have the experience or not.

When you aren't helping companies find qualified people or helping people find good jobs, what do you do for fun?

I love going to the Outer Banks with my family and friends, cooking and the gatherings I have with my amazing neighbors. There is always something fun going on.

What is one of your favorite quotes?

Live life to the fullest. Stay focused on the positive.