Meet Di Longtin, Office Manager & HR Administrator
After 24 years, Office Manager and HR administrator Di Longtin continues to excel as she effortlessly navigates the constant whirlwind of staffing challenges. Since 2000, she and her ever-growing team have played a pivotal role in almost every aspect of our operations. Whether she’s overseeing onboarding procedures or managing client-specific paperwork, background checks, and drug tests, her workdays are anything but monotonous. Despite the challenges, Di remains steadfast in her dedication and stands out as one of the most cheerful people we know. Keep reading to discover her crucial role in ensuring FootBridge’s hiring process operates seamlessly and efficiently.
Question: You’ve just marked an impressive 24 years with FootBridge. What parts of your work as Office Manager & HR Administrator fill you with the most pride?
Countless experiences fill me with pride, but streamlining workflows for improved efficiency stands out above the rest. While my main focus is working with candidates and our internal team to systemize processes for maximum efficiency, I sometimes conduct screening protocols for new clients, which can include compliance reviews and assessments of workplace culture and environment – so these critical improvements have a ripple effect across the company be it measured in time, positive candidate/client feedback, or cost savings. Moreover, I am incredibly proud of our administrative team’s efforts as they readily respond to pressing issues like reformatting resumes so they jump to the top of a client’s pile, conducting background checks, and staying on top of drug testing requirements.
We carry a hefty weight yet flourish in the dynamic environment of a staffing firm, so being deeply involved in the company’s core activities, even after all these years, brings me immense satisfaction.
Question: In what ways do you think FootBridge stands out from other specialized staffing agencies?
Our principles set us apart from typical staffing agencies that focus solely on closing deals, securing clients in need of personnel, and making matches without concern for the outcome. We also prioritize establishing solid and lasting partnerships right from the start and go well beyond that initial connection. Then there are our recruiters who consistently engage with candidates, fostering a welcoming atmosphere by addressing their questions, particularly on their critical first day of contract work.
We also ensure that candidates feel at ease submitting the onboarding documents and managing the often daunting task of understanding insurance benefits, especially when switching jobs. For instance, I walk them through the entire process, clarifying the different plans available and highlighting the ones that would be most advantageous for their specific needs. Over the years, I’ve lost count of the number of grateful “thank you’s” I’ve received for this assistance.
Question: With each day bringing new staffing challenges, how do you maintain your steady focus?
Tackling a diverse array of topics each day might seem daunting, but the hands-on nature of my work brings me immense satisfaction. For example, I thrive on being pulled in various directions; it keeps my days vibrant and stimulating. Amid the hustle, I cherish personal communication and prefer crafting personalized emails over automated messages, as they reflect my true thoughts and words. Although this approach may be more challenging, it is undeniably the most heartfelt. Additionally, I make a concerted effort to stay abreast of new HR laws and regulations and continuously seek out innovative practices. This commitment ensures that I remain an indispensable part of FootBridge, a role I hold dear.
Question: Your 25th anniversary is just around the corner. What excites you most about your journey with FootBridge?
After all this time, I still look forward to working here every day. I love this career path not only because I know this work so well but also because I genuinely believe in the company’s ethics and the people who work here. We do good things, getting people jobs that work well in all aspects—it’s a feel-good feeling when people say thank you for everything we do.
Are you interested in a career at FootBridge? Contact Jsquires@footbridgecompany.com.