This blog post comes to you from a recent Atrium hire. After only being at the firm for 2 weeks (and this being my first position at a staffing agency) I still have a newbie perspective.

Many misconceptions can be made about the staffing and recruiting industry and I must admit I never truly understood the value behind the walls of an agency. My short list of stereotypes went something like this:  Agencies are cold, unfriendly, sterile environments, where recruiters treat applicants like they are just another number.

The first day I was contacted by someone from Atrium, my opinion changed. Initially, I was approached as a potential Associate, having been referred by a friend. At the time I didn’t realize that at the core of Atrium’s success is their referral bonus program and over 70% of Atrium’s Associates come referred and highly recommended by other Associates. Immediately, this personal connection made the experience warmer and more inviting.

My counselor was very straightforward about the job placement and its requirements and she kept me up to date with the status of the job, no fluff involved. She continued to keep me top-of-mind for other potential placements and eventually she mentioned that there was an internal position at Atrium she wanted to refer me for, with my approval of course.

I was not actively looking for employment at the time. I had been with a successful start-up for over 2 years with no intention of leaving, until I cross-paths with Atrium. My initial phone conversation with Atrium’s Marketing Manager convinced me to take a deeper look at the opportunity.

When I walked into Atrium’s Union Square office I was welcomed by several friendly faces. While waiting for my interview I got to chatting with other Applicants and even exchanged cards with a gentleman in the same field. The whole atmosphere was inviting and unpretentious. I met with the Marketing Manager for almost an hour and after telling me about the ins and outs of the internal position, she gave me insight into the culture of Atrium and the key values that are important to the company. I met with another member of the upper management and was greeted with the same warmth. I left my interview with some serious thinking to do.

A few days after my initial meeting with Atrium I was offered the position and subsequently accepted. While job growth potential was certainly a factor in my decision, what really solidified my move was the Atrium culture and ambiance. In my first two weeks with the company I am confident that I made the right decision and I have, in fact, referred 4 friends already. The organic way in which I was brought into the company completely supports Atrium’s applicant-centric business model and I am so glad to be a part of this organization now as an Atrium Insider.

- Allie B.