I had the pleasure of sitting down with Emily Sinclair, a recruitment consultant at gforce employment + recruitment, whose career path has woven through years of leadership in retail to her current role in the for-purpose sector. With a clear passion for people, Emily shared thoughtful insights on growth, purpose, and what it really takes to find (or help someone find) meaningful work.
📍Q: Having worked in leadership roles for many years, what’s your personal philosophy when it comes to managing or mentoring people?
Emily: “I’ve always believed that leadership is about investing in people, not just guiding them, but actually equipping them with the skills and confidence they need to take on more. My approach is to train people to recognize what they’re capable of, and then support them as they step into that. When you take the time to upskill someone, you don’t just make them better at their job, you help them grow into new opportunities. It’s incredibly rewarding to watch someone you’ve mentored move into a bigger role, knowing you played a small part in their journey.”
đź“ŤQ: What has working in a for-purpose community organisation like gforce taught you about impact-driven work?
Emily: “It’s completely shifted my perspective. Working in this space has shown me how powerful employment really is—it gives people a sense of purpose and structure, and it becomes part of how they see themselves. But the impact doesn’t stop at the individual. When someone finds a job that fits, it affects their whole life: their confidence, their relationships, their community. That ripple effect is what makes this work so fulfilling. You realize pretty quickly that it’s not just about jobs—it’s about dignity, opportunity, and belonging.”
đź“ŤQ: What advice would you give to students or recent grads entering the workforce today?
Emily: “Be persistent, and don’t rely on the traditional path alone. Yes, your resume and cover letter matter, but what’s even more important is the initiative you show. Reach out to hiring managers directly. Even better, connect with their managers. Set up informal coffee chats. Use LinkedIn to your advantage. Go to events, introduce yourself, follow up. The more people you meet, the more doors you open. You have to think creatively and be bold. Most opportunities come from conversations, not applications. So show up, and keep showing up.”
đź“ŤQ: One message for the world?
Emily: “Be kind. The importance of community, of being there for one another, can’t be overstated. It’s what holds everything together.”
✨Key Takeaway:
Emily reminds us that empowering others, whether as a mentor, a recruiter, or a colleague, can be life changing. Her work in the employment space shows just how deeply purpose and community are intertwined. Whether you’re leading a team or launching your career, the most lasting impact often starts with empathy, a conversation, and the courage to reach out.
