After just 18 months in the industry, Matthew Sampson knew that recruitment was for him. So much so, in fact, that he decided to launch his own business at the age of 22.
His start-up, which targets the engineering and architectural sectors, wasn’t exactly ground-breaking but, as Sampson explains: “While there were other recruitment consultancies in Melbourne targeting the same clientele, my research uncovered a frustration amongst target clients about the transactional ‘in and out’ approach taken by a number of recruitment agencies.”
“I saw an opportunity to provide a customised approach to each individual employer and job seeker. I wanted to create a company that aligned itself closely with both ‘clients’ and ‘candidates’, in order to develop longer term relationships and provide what would be considered a professional and comprehensive service.”
While his age, a rather inflated belief in his own abilities and the complexities of running a business proved to be challenges, Sampson has built a thriving business, while learning some important lessons along the way.
He says: “I have learnt that it is important to keep things in perspective. While I consider the success of my business very important, I realise I do so because it provides a means for myself, my staff and our families – the truly important things in life which are well and truly back in the front seat where they belong.”
“What I learnt from this is that age is not an important attribute to someone’s success in business.
“Bravery, determination, ambition, persistence – they are key characteristics that are important to success, not age.”
