Welcome to AST On the Move where we spotlight our amazing staff and what makes them tick. Today, meet Corporate Recruiter Dalton Whitaker.
Why is culture so important when it comes to the organization (beyond the job description)?
Culture creates a sense of belonging, which improves morale and employee engagement. Companies with a positive work culture often experience higher retention rates and greater productivity in serving their customers. When I initially speak with candidates, I ask them what is most important for them when they are considering a new opportunity. Time and time again, the answer centers on the importance of finding the right culture.
What originally attracted you to AST?
I conducted some research prior to my initial interview and was really impressed with AST’s track record of retaining employees and the meaningful work they are involved with. Coming from a large organization with over 20,000 employees, I was interested in transitioning to a smaller company where I could engage in more cross-collaboration and have a greater impact on the company as a whole. AST fostered a sense of belonging during the interview process, making it feel like the right opportunity to pursue.
What’s the most rewarding part of what you do?
If you compare recruiting to a company’s success, it’s like the lungs that keep a firm breathing. Filling roles with the right candidates allows us to accomplish our customers’ mission needs. Beyond supporting the company, I also advocate for the candidates that I hire, ensuring their needs are met as well. One of the most rewarding moments with my job is when I call a candidate with an offer and their reaction is full of excitement and appreciation.
Outside of work, what are some activities or passions that help keep you energized and balanced?
My wife says I’m a man of many hobbies. I enjoy spending time with my family, hunting and fishing, and practicing jiu-jitsu. My wife and I are going through the process of purchasing the home we rent, and I’ve been taking on a lot of DIY projects around the house. I also have an old GMC Sierra 3500 Dually that I’m working on restoring. When the weather is nice on the weekend, you might be able to find me making a double-bogey on a par 5 at my local golf course.
What are you most looking forward to in the next year?
Professionally, I look forward to continuing to bring in top talent that align with our customers mission needs and our company’s cultural values, while also working to refine our recruiting process to become more efficient, effective, and candidate-friendly. I look forward to building stronger relationships with my coworkers at AST and increasing my contributions to the company’s success.
