YEDaily: Adam Gellert

Adam Gellert is the man behind Linkus Group, a company he launched three and a half years ago to provide affordable corporate recruitment and HR (human resources) for small to medium-sized businesses in Toronto, as well as across Canada. What was the inspiration behind the company? Find out in today’s YEDaily…

Elevator Pitch: Describe your business in a nutshell.
We provide affordable corporate Recruitment and HR (Human Resources) for small to medium-sized businesses in Toronto, as well as across Canada. Unlike traditional recruitment agencies, we have a new model whereby we do not charge commissions for our hiring services. At Linkus Group, we customize HR solutions based on our clients unique and individual needs, all within the parameters of their budgetary constraints – whatever they may be. We cater to a variety of different industries so that they don’t have to source out one firm to hire a Web Developer and another for the Administrative Assistant. Beyond recruitment and selection services, we assist with all personnel needs including HR management, health and safety, payroll and more. Linkus operates as your internal HR team, but rather than our office being down the hall, we’re just in another building. 

Why did you start your business, what was the inspiration?
A series of factors lead to the beginning of Linkus. I started my career working for a staffing firm where I learned about the typical outsourced recruitment model that’s standard in the industry today; finding companies’ staff in exchange for an inflated commission. By listening to employers, I found a gap in the structure of the industry and over the years I identified three main factors that would help companies of all sizes with their human capital: cost, time and exposure. I realized that recruiters were not making this a priority – especially for start-up businesses. As a result, we created an atmosphere where these companies could create corporate HR solutions, utilizing our expertise as HR professionals to build their business faster… and provide a great return on their bottom line. 

What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
The most rewarding part of what we do is realizing the impact our work has on our clients’ businesses, and that it enables them to continue to propel their growth and success. We’ve helped some of our clients double in size just in the past year, a direct result of our “out of the box” ideas and affordable solutions. The most challenging part is that HR can be very regimented and therefore challenging to reinvent and stay ahead of the curve. We like to think progressively and continually provide something quite unique. I talk to people that are so convinced outsourced recruitment isn’t worthwhile; they aren’t even willing to have a conversation about how our different approach can actually save them money. Results surely are the best way to win them over – our great results really drives our referral base. You can always visit our Facebook page and let us know what you think.

Where do you see your business going in 5 years?
We understand that each company is unique and therefore requires unique solutions. Therefore, we are constantly generating new ideas and creating additional services. We will continue to be a full-service, innovative and creative company that businesses will confidently turn to for their HR needs. There are a lot of improvements to be made with respect to how employers attract and retain their employees. Let’s just say I have a few tricks up my sleeve… 

What does success look like to you?
We believe that our success is measured by the success of our clients. Providing the knowledge, experience and resources for our clients to attract and retain key personnel directly impacts their growth potential and reputation. On a personal level, success is about being part of something bigger a progression to help make a change for the better.

What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
Taking Linkus to the next level; this past year we have hired key staff internally, moved into a great office, and put out our new website. 

Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Getting HR support is vital to your business. Can I say that? I would say that “engagement” is essential to the success of any young professional. Be engaged in what you believe in. Inform people you know, family and friends, about what you do. You never know what opportunities or experiences might stem from it.

Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
We believe in giving back to the community. We know that even a little can go a long way. At the moment we mainly donate to cancer-related charities like Gilda’s Club. It’s important to me because cancer has continued to impact those around me. A goal of mine is to let our clients have more input into where we donate as a direct result of working with us. 

What is Notable to you?
Notable is recognition for hopefully something truly admirable. I like to think that innovation is about breaking down barriers, while still showcasing true character, which to me is very notable.  

BlackBerry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
I had a BlackBerry Bold for 24 hours. The limitations of what I could do frustrated me and so I exchanged it for an iPhone years ago and have never looked back. 

How do you keep active, energetic, and vibrant?
I play organized hockey twice a week. I also have a dog. I think it’s important when you’re a busy professional or entrepreneur to have something that forces you to get out. Being a part of a team that counts on me to win and a dog that depends on me for its exercise is more motivation than a gym membership!