My Biggest Lesson: Melissa Klunder

Senior talent acquisition specialist Melissa has over 15 years’ experience connecting people with their dream jobs. Creating a rewarding journey for a new hire is all about balance, honesty, and determination – just like her other passion, Kung Fu.

My most valuable lesson was when I took up Kung Fu. My youngest daughter had just turned four years old and started primary school. I’d been so focused on my family that I knew I had to do something for myself for a change.

I never would have thought of practising martial arts, but I’d just watched The Karate Kid with my daughters, and I realised that it was something I might be good at. I googled Kung Fu Amsterdam and discovered that there was a school around the corner from my house. I immediately signed up and started training for six hours a week. Seven years later, I got my brown belt.

Of course, back then I’d never hit anyone or got into a fight. All of a sudden you have people punching you – and you have to hit them back! But as I kept at it, I could feel myself getting stronger, and I was more confident in everyday situations. I signed my two daughters up as soon as they were old enough. I think it’s really important for them to have this same focus and discipline in their lives. It’s my way of showing them that they can do anything.

I try to approach my work as a recruiter with the same mentality. Over the last 15 years, I’ve interviewed over 5,000 people, and every single one has been inspiring in its own way. In an interview, you’re always trying to find the candidate’s real ambitions, and steer them through their own obstacles and achievements. In my experience, it’s only when you are open to stepping into the unknown that you will find real success. It’s about trusting yourself, and looking out for what you really want in life.