We took some time to sit down and chat with eligible recruiter Mike Di Zio of PMC Recruitment, a wholly owned Canadian firm that caters to the needs of the Design & Construction Industry related to Buildings & Infrastructure.
The Rostie Group (RG): Hi Mike, so tell me about PMC Recruitment, how do you solve your clients' problems?
Mike Di Zio (MD): Hey John, well I would say the best way to solve client’s problems is listening. Simple as that. Too many times conversations seem to be a battle for talking time and when people aren’t talking they are waiting for their turn to jump in and make their next point. I try my best to actively listen and get behind what a client is actually wanting and needing. I feel naked if I am on the phone with a client and do not have a pen and paper in front if me. It’s important to jot down the key points so you can address everything once the person has stopped talking.
RG: Great and how does the Rostie Group help you do this?
MD: Rostie provides me with a very professional atmosphere which makes clients feel they are being taken care of by the best. From the time client walks onto our floor and deals with reception, they quickly realize that your company is a first class outfit. I do not remember a time where I asked for a boardroom and was turned down. The times where I‘ve wanted to book a room last minute (which happens a lot, sorry Avalon), I am always taken care of, even if I have to go to one of the day offices on level 12 that have amazing views. People are always impressed by our boardrooms. Rostie Group bends over backwards to make things happen. Everyone in the group is extremely helpful and will always take the time to assist me when I need it. Knowing I have this kind of support allows me to concentrate on helping clients.
RG: What's your favorite meeting room to use at the Rostie Group and why?
MD: I would say the Baltic room is my favourite. It is smaller and cosier and my clients always comment on the wonderful view. I feel like it commands a certain amount of respect having a meeting in there. I’ve been to many other people’s meeting rooms and they usually aren’t anything to write home about.
RG: What do you love most about being Business Manager at PMC Recruitment?
MD: My favourite part is helping people. The opportunities we get coming into our offices are with some of the leading consulting Engineering and Construction companies in the GTA and across Canada. It makes me the happiest when I approach someone who isn’t happy in their current position and want to make a move, but they have just become complacent and stuck in their routine. They often tell me “I was thinking of making a career move for a while now, I am so glad you called me”. Sometimes you just need to make someone aware of their options in order for them to take action. The part I love the most is when someone I have placed in a job calls me 6 months later saying they have never been happier. They are grateful I saw talent in them and contacted them for the opportunity. That’s definitely my favourite part.
RG: What makes you good at your job?
MD: I think I am good at my job because I am an honest person. I don’t like to give people false optimism and sell them on big ideas, then under deliver. I always strive to do my best for everyone I represent, but realistically I can’t find everyone their dream position and salary in an instant. I think transparency and telling people the truth goes a long way. I don’t want to waste anyone’s time so it’s important to tell people where they stand so they aren’t left to guess what’s actually happening.
RG: Are you single?
MD: I am
RG: Just checking.
MD: Yeah my grandparents like to bug me about that. But being single isn’t all bad. It’s a good time to focus on bettering yourself so when the right person comes along you have a lot to offer.
RG: Do recruiting techniques give you an advantage in the dating world?
MD: I would say one of the advantages is that I am always meeting and talking to new people. I am constantly interviewing people whom I haven’t met before so you could say they are kind of like blind dates. Although when I do go on a date I try to not make it seem like an interview. No one likes 100 questions fired at them, it’s overwhelming. It’s good to ask questions, but you also have to talk about yourself. Half of a date is the other person getting to know you and your personality.
RG: lol... ahem what is your fondest (G-Rated) Valentine's Day memory?
MD: This is going to sound terrible but nothing spectacular other than dinner and flowers comes to mind. I usually don’t make a big deal out of Valentine’s day because it seems so unoriginal. I like to surprise someone I care about with nice things when they least expect it. I think it’s much more special to get someone flowers or write them a note telling them how great they are when they aren’t expecting it. Appreciation for your partner should happen all year round.
RG: On a Valentines'Day date what can your date expect from you? (tips, do's and don'ts for a v-day date)
MD: Hmmm, I dunno, I would want to avoid the crowds but still do something fun. Maybe some outdoor skating down by Queen’s Quay then dinner at a restaurant. After maybe cuddle on the couch and watch a DVD. My best tip for a date is to keep a girl laughing by any means possible. People take dates too seriously sometimes. Have fun with it and don’t put so much pressure on the outcome. Not everyone is going to be a match so you might as well have fun on your dates whether you see a future with the person or not.
RG: What's the most romantic spot in Toronto in your opinon?
MD: That restaurant on the top of the CN tower is pretty awesome. On a clear night the views are spectacular. Aside from that there are a few lounge type bars on King West that are kind of nice. Anywhere quiet and not full of Jersey Shore types. I like to be able to have a nice conversation without having to yell.
RG: What's the best v-day gift u ever gave/received?
MD: V-day is all about the ladies! I can’t remember getting anything myself that sticks out in my head. If you want a great V-day present from a girl, make her feel like the only one in the world and the appreciation you’ll get back will top any gift on the planet.
RG: Thanks Mike. Great answers!
MD: You're welcome.
