My #TaylorRootJourney – Melvin Ling
As part of our ‘My #TaylorRootJourney’ series, we spoke with Melvin Ling, In-house Legal Senior Consultant in Singapore and he spoke about his recruitment career and journey with us so far. Melvin shares how he started his career in recruitment, what he enjoys most about working with the wider team and key advice he would share with those looking to pursue a career in legal recruitment.
Can you tell us a little about yourself?
I have been working with Taylor Root since February 2022, following four years of prior experience in legal recruitment. I am an avid football fan, with Liverpool being my favourite team and you will also commonly find me close to the F1 action. Besides my love for the aforementioned sports, I pride myself in being a movie enthusiast, with a preference for films directed by Christopher Nolan and Quentin Tarantino. Notable TV series such as Breaking Bad, Rick and Morty and Black Mirror are equally fascinating to me. I always welcome film recommendations!
How did you get into recruitment?
I had no idea what recruitment was about – it was something I stumbled into, and I have to say I’m grateful for it. During my job search, the job description of an ‘Associate Recruiter’ spoke to me and I decided to give it a go. The interview process was rigorous and intimidating for a fresh graduate like me, but I’m happy for the opportunity and since then, I have never looked back!
Tell us about how your journey started at Taylor Root
Taylor Root approached me to join the team, in anticipation of a colleague relocating to one of our European offices. At that time, I was already familiar with Taylor Root as a strong competitor in the legal recruitment space. Coincidentally, my ex-colleague was working at Taylor Root at the time and provided valuable insights about the company and the role I was offered, which gave me assurance that this would be a good personal and professional move for me. Happy to report that this remains true!
I’ve always been aware of Taylor Root as a strong competitor in the legal recruitment space.
Why do you believe in Taylor Root?
The brand is well-established – whether I am making a cold or warm phone call, people recognise us, and clients entrust us to support their searches because of our track record and long-standing reputation in the market. Clients and candidates alike put their trust and faith in us, which motivates me to deliver, perform and take the brand name to even greater heights. Moreover, the recognition you receive at the company is commendable. It’s a place that promotes empowerment through individual performance.
It’s a place that encourages empowerment.
What do you enjoy about the company culture?
The company culture is defined by the people. The team is highly collaborative, across all the brands, and the individuals are authentic. There is an excellent balance of work and play that contributes to the overall culture. The collaborative nature of the team is what makes the Taylor Root family unique and compelling.
What specifically gets you excited about your role as a Senior Consultant?
I find meeting lawyers of varying levels of seniority particularly enjoyable. Although some people may find it intimidating, I benefit greatly from these interactions. It’s a great opportunity to learn how they communicate and respond to different questions. Additionally, the earning potential is unlimited, which is a significant motivator. The effort you put in directly translates to what you take home.
What’s your favourite part of working with the team here?
The collaborative team effort is what defines our work culture. I have the privilege of working with, and learning from experienced colleagues who are very good at their jobs. What I appreciate most is the hard work ethic we all share, coupled with the ability to bond and socialise outside of work. There is a healthy dose of humour that runs through the office, which adds to the overall positive atmosphere.
The collaborative team effort is what defines our work culture.
What advice can you share to those starting out in recruitment?
My advice would be to put yourself out there and meet as many people as possible, engage in meaningful conversations and gain useful knowledge with each meeting to bring to the next. People like to hear things that they don’t already know, and this is the best way to be perceived as an industry expert. Not to forget, adding a tinge of personal touch goes a long way to maintaining lasting relationships.
Adding a tinge of personal touch goes a long way to maintaining lasting relationships.
If you’re interested in exploring a recruitment career within the legal space then get in touch today. Alternatively, reach out to Melvin or the team to discuss the current market or find out about our available legal roles.
We’re looking forward to hearing from you.
