​Q&A with Daire Connolly

How did you get into recruitment?

After finishing my Masters in Business Management I moved to London. I was looking to get into sales and that’s where I found my first job in recruitment.

What’s the worst job you’ve ever had?

Furniture removal in Chicago on a J1. Lots of heat and lifting air conditioners out of student accommodation at North Western University – that was a low point!

What do you do at MA?

I run the Frontend Software Development business with a focus on permanent hires for MA Tech.

What is your market like at the moment?

The market is very candidate-driven but over the past few years, clients have really embraced the UI of their application and the importance for it. Developers are highly valued and in-demand across Ireland.

Why did you choose to work at MA?

I love the culture and how Mason Alexander value each customer and candidate by both spending time with them and offering advice. The business is making genuine steps away from traditional recruitment methods to help solve customer issues in the market.

What does a typical day at work week look like for you?

Each day and week is different but I get out of the office quite a lot which is encouraged as relationship building is key for us.

Any tips for people looking for a new job?

Spend time on your CV to get the basics right. A good clear CV with no grammatical errors will leave a good first impression. Spend time thinking about why you want a change and use that as the motivator to find the right move for yourself.

Any tips for clients trying to attract key talent?

Tell your story and emphasize what makes you stand out from the competition. A retention strategy is key to ensure the talent you attract are happy in their role.

Would you recommend MA to friends/colleagues? Why?

100%! The culture is excellent, highly collaborative and professional. Everyone is always trying to better themselves and learning from the people around them. They push the norms and get you thinking outside the box.

Can you recommend any habits that have helped your professional life?

An early start is key to having a productive day. Exercise is also key for stress and mental health and I find it a good chance to switch off.

What’s one thing that’s coming up in 2020 that you’re excited about?

I’m getting married this year so personally, that is a big milestone! I am also really looking forward to the head roads MA Tech are going to make this year and being a part of that development.

If you didn’t have to sleep, what would you do with the extra time?

Read, I generally have a packed week so getting through books comes in waves of when I find free time. Nothing better than a cup of tea in hand and a chunk of time to get immersed in a book.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Nothing is given to you in life, work hard and reap the rewards. Stay in touch with people you meet, good friends will be there for you when needed along the way.

What could you give a 40-minute presentation on with no preparation?

It would probably be something music-related and as I’m a big fan of Mick Flannery I can probably discuss his music for a solid hour.

What is something you think everyone should do at least once in their lives?

Visit Cuba! Their culture for music and dance is amazing and the laid-back culture makes the country really enjoyable, especially when you get talking to locals.

Do you have a favourite failure, that set you up for later success?

Understanding things can happen for a reason. I graduated from Quantity Surveying in 2010 in the height of the recession and there was no prospect of jobs at home. This motivated me to change industry and start again. This attitude even applies to day to day tasks, if something isn’t going to work for you, change it up!

Daire Connolly

Principal Consultant
d.connolly@masonalexander.ie