Rachel Saks is the CEO & Co-Founder at Hireforce, a specialized service provider to the Salesforce community, offering recruitment services to companies who need to hire Salesforce experts and helping Salesforce professionals find their next exciting opportunity. Since founding Hireforce in 2014, Rachel has grown Hireforce as a leading Salesforce-specific recruitment firm, focusing on both contract and full time placements. A former employee of Hireforce commends Rachel for her leadership skills, noting Rachel is “a rare breed of CEO and leader, able to simultaneously connect with and mentor each individual in her company while also allowing for management growth and a hands-off, flexible approach.” We are lucky enough to connect with Rachel daily over her time in the Salesforce Community, and as a female leader:
Can you tell me a bit about what you do in the Salesforce Community and what your role is?
After recognizing the need for a Salesforce-specific recruiting firm focused on finding the highest quality candidates for clients, I started Hireforce in 2014. Hireforce is focused on helping companies hire full-time Salesforce experts, as well as contractors, to work on Salesforce projects. Since joining the Salesforce Ecosystem, I’ve been privileged to grow Hireforce as a leading Salesforce recruitment firm, as well as speak at Dreamforce, Salesforce User Groups, and sponsor numerous events in the ecosystem.
As a female leader, what has been the most significant barrier in your career?
I don’t consider this to be a barrier but one challenge that I believe isn’t talked about enough is being a mom while pursuing a career. I am a new mom to my ten month old daughter, Juliana, and I’ve come to realize that juggling being a present mom while also running a company can be a challenge, albeit a lot of fun! Before I had Juliana, I assumed that I’d have full-time help to allow me to focus on my work. After she was born, I quickly realized that I want to be the one spending time with her. That being said, for me it’s important to lead by example and be a role model to Juliana just as my mom was a role model to me. I also love what I do! I’m so passionate about Hireforce, our team, our clients and candidates. I’m working on creating balance in my personal and work life to allow me to do the things I love. I feel fortunate to have such a supportive leadership team around me, and I plan to continue to empower them as they assist in our company’s growth. I recognize that not every working mom is given this support and some have to make hard choices. I empathize with them and hope that there is more of a conversation around this topic in the future.
Who inspires/inspired you and why?
My mom inspires me! My mom raised my sister and I with strong values and an optimistic outlook. She truly leads by example by always being engaged in her work and passionate about what she does. She’s one of the most positive people I know. She raised me with a “you can do anything” mentality and I’ve always had the confidence in myself to pursue whatever ambitions I’ve had.
What are some of the characteristics of a good leader?
Exuding confidence in your vision. Leading with compassion. Inspiring others by leading by example. Having a positive attitude and outlook.
What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders?
Be true to yourself, believe in yourself, find out what you’re passionate about and pursue that passion with all your might. Be resilient or you won’t get far!
What is your proudest accomplishment?
I have two. 1. Being a mom to Juliana and bringing her into this world! She’s perfect and all that I could ask for! 2. I’m proud of the strong work culture we have at Hireforce. I genuinely always feel like we’re at our best but things keep getting better and better. I’m grateful for the team and dynamic that we’ve created.
Where will we find you on a Saturday morning at 10 a.m.?
On a hike with my husband, Dan, our daughter, Juliana, and our dog, Storm!