Meet Bethany Franklin | Recruiter & Career Services Consultant

We had the good fortune of connecting with Bethany Franklin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Bethany, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
As a recruiter, I’ve sat on both sides of the table when it comes to the job search. I have come across great talent from all industries and backgrounds, but for a variety of reasons, they do not make the final cut in the hiring process.
Having the knowledge of and insight into what employers are looking for in a potential candidate, I can serve as a trusted advisor for job seekers. I enjoy helping others, encouraging and equipping them as we navigate the at times defeating process of finding the perfect marriage of skill set and opportunity. It is such a rewarding feeling to build a relationship with a candidate and know that you have helped them and made an impact on their life. I have built partnerships with clients that span years, career levels, and changes in priorities. It’s like planting a seed and watching it grow and blossom. My success is tied to that of my clients and nothing makes me happier than helping them level up to their desires and expectations.

So, let me “BeFrank” when I say, it’s time to create more specific and positive results in your career journey. Allow me, Bethany Franklin, to be your job search business partner!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I have 15+ years of business experience spanning areas such as business development, client relationships, recruiting, and leadership development. These experiences cover a wide range of industries including tech, healthcare, hospitality, and consumer goods. My previous employers include Meta, Kaiser Permanente, YETI, and Marriott International.

Taking my talents to the next level, I founded BeFrank Solutions in which I consult with executives, hiring managers, and individuals in the areas of talent acquisition, talent retention, client relationships, and career management.

We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others
Crafting the experience – recruiting is more like being a matchmaker. And it’s generally an uncomfortable process, depending on the circumstances that have one on a search. It has to make sense for both sides. Finding that missing piece of the puzzle.

Being a Polynesian dance instructor helped me understand that people learn at different paces and digest information in different ways. You have to be able to adjust your approach, meeting them in the middle, and finding their level of comfort. I’ve applied this approach in all areas of my life. You’ll have better outcomes if you communicate with people the way they process it best. Be adaptable.

Having served on boards – being the youngest in the room and surrounded by experienced leaders in their own areas. Taking the knowledge and applying it.

Being resourceful – find ways to work smarter, not harder. Making it work with what’s in front of me, get creative.

I enjoy getting to know people. I have the ability to make people feel comfortable, which is a vital step in earning their trust. Determine their strengths and areas of focus.

What you are most proud of or excited about?
I’m proud of the path I have made for myself. 13 years ago, I took a leap of faith. Packed whatever I could fit in my car and made the trek from Grand Rapids, MI to Houston, TX. No job lined up… started from scratch and made it work. Received promotions and relocated to new cities not knowing anyone. I had 3 jobs at one time…. If I can do that I can do anything.

How did you get to where you are today professionally? Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges?
Hard work, resilience, and tenacity.
Surrounding myself with like-minded people
Taking risks, trying something new, taking on more responsibilities, and stretching myself.
Constantly educate myself, stay curious, be coachable, and be open to receiving constructive criticism.
Not being afraid to ask for help/ask questions – seek first to understand.

What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way?
It’s okay to make mistakes. Mistakes mean you’re trying. And there’s always a lesson in them. I have grown the most when I’m uncomfortable and just about ready to give up, but that’s when the breakthrough happens.
Sometimes you just have to let go and get out of your own way.
You have to be your own advocate, and speak up for yourself. You can’t expect others to help your career excel.
Apply for the job! You don’t have to check off ALL the requirements.
Stay positive, and practice gratitude. Be that positive light for someone.
Pay it forward, it will come back to you!

What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
Long-term success comes from synergy. And synergies don’t just exist. They’re developed. Nurtured.

I am very proud of my ethnic background Black and Filipino. It has allowed me to see and experience the world from different lenses and apply that in all aspects of my life. It is one of the reasons I have always been passionate about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. There is so much to be taken from having ideas coming from different points of view/walks of life.

Advocate for DEI

When I was a senior in college, my thesis was about the importance of having a Chief Diversity Officer, even before that actual title existed. I have served as a Diversity Chair for Business Councils, expanding outreach through market events and recruitment opportunities. Served on boards and community involvement (Meeting Planners International, NBMBAA, Houston Society of Association Executives, Houston Area Urban League Young Professionals, Diversity Connections Consortium, Change Happens, Houston Black Leadership Institute, DFW Alliance of Technology and Women, Her Tech Unicorn)

I enjoy educating others about the Philippines as well as cooking different dishes. I enjoy learning about other cultures and how we are more alike than different. I just started taking Tagalog lessons, so that I can learn the Filipino language. Never stop learning… Go get your greatness!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I feel like there’s so much I have yet to discover in Dallas! I’m always ready to check out a brunch or happy hour spot.

For the view, I would go to the Statler Hotel downtown and then up the 19th floor to the rooftop lounge called Waterproof. I also enjoy Happiest Hour and checking out concerts at House of Blues.

For dining and hanging out, I enjoy Shops at Legacy, Legacy West, and The Star.

Since I’m from the Midwest, the foodie in me is very happy that we now have a Portillo’s (a Chicago favorite) here in The Colony along with all the new spots popping up in the Grandscape. On Sunday’s, Lava Cantina is a good look, and if you enjoy a good cigar, check out Cigars International.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Shoutout to Gregory Gibson Jr.

Greg is the founder of the Black Sports Business Symposium | HBCU Battle of the Brains | HSI Battle of the Brains.

I met Greg in 2014 at a networking event. He recognized my drive and my passion to give back to the community. Next thing I knew, I was a volunteer for the NBMBAA Austin Chapter and later became a board member.

Greg has been one of my biggest supporters and has mentored me in this whirlwind of becoming an entrepreneur. He’s one of those people you need in your corner that is not afraid to tell it like it, especially when you need to hear it the most. He challenges my thoughts and pushes me to be my best self creatively and authentically.

Website: www.befranksolutions.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/befranksolutions/

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/bethanyfranklin

Twitter: https://twitter.com/BeFrankSolution

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeFrankSolutions