How can staffing leaders evolve their services while maintaining their mission?

Maria O'Connell shares her journey from corporate leadership to founding Express Employment Professionals Chester County, now helping both employers and job seekers through innovative staffing solutions. Maria traces her path through multiple industries, ultimately developing Express's comprehensive approach combining traditional staffing with candidate development. She discusses how their methods focus on uncovering candidates' aspirations beyond their resumes.

The conversation explores Maria's expansion into training and development through People Excel Solutions. She emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence and relationship building in modern workforce development. The discussion highlights how staffing must evolve beyond traditional "trading time for money" to creating meaningful career journeys.

Maria candidly discusses navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, including early doubts and COVID-19's impact. She shares how faith, gratitude practices, and work-life balance helped sustain her through difficult times. As an industry veteran, Maria offers insights on the future of work, predicting a shift toward more purpose-driven employment relationships.

Mentors who shaped Maria's approach:

Early elocution teacher building communication skills
Phil Johnson teaching emotional intelligence
Warren Buffett emphasizing relationship value
Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program
Express Employment franchise system providing support

References:

Email: maria.oconnell@expresspros.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marialoconnell

Website: https://www.expresspros.com/us-pennsylvania-chester-county

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ExpressEmploymentInternational

Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/user/expressep

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/expressemploymentinternational/

Anthony Codispoti, AddBack Benefits Agency

https://www.addbackbenefitsagency.com/

Transcript | Revolutionizing Staffing Through Purpose: Maria O'Connell's Vision

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Revolutionizing Staffing Through Purpose: Maria O'Connell's Vision

The Inspired Stories Podcast