I’m Celebrating Success

Before joining Robert Walters, managing consultant Coco Kao spent three years building her career in marketing — from social media, e-commerce to product management. Marketing had always been her passion, and for a long time, she thought that was the path she’d continue on.

But when a friend introduced her to Robert Walters, she discovered an unexpected new direction — one where her marketing experience could be transformed into something even more impactful. What she found wasn’t just a new job, but a journey that would challenge, empower, and inspire her in ways she had never imagined.

The Beginning of Something Different

My journey at Robert Walters began as a researcher and stepped into a consultant role after completing three months of training. Within three years, I was promoted to managing consultant — a journey that has been both fast-paced and deeply fulfilling.

From my very first interview, I sensed something different. Each stage of the process was thoughtful and people-focused. What stood out most was the genuine care placed on the candidate experience — something I’ve come to value even more now that I’m on the other side as a recruiter.

What truly convinced me to make the leap into recruitment were the people I met along the way. Hearing my direct manager’s own career transition helped me see how my marketing background could become an asset. The department head’s thoughtful questions encouraged me to reflect on what truly matters to me. And the country manager’s encouragement made me feel genuinely seen, supported, and understood.

That’s when I knew — this wasn’t just a company I wanted to work for. It was a culture I wanted to grow with.

A Culture of Learning and Support

From the very beginning, I was impressed by how thoughtfully structured the onboarding experience at Robert Walters was. Beyond the formal training, I was given meaningful, hands-on opportunities to learn by doing. What truly stood out was how many of my colleagues came from the industries they now recruit for — bringing firsthand experience and credibility to every conversation. It made me feel certain I was in the right place, surrounded by people who truly understood both clients and candidates.

As someone new to recruitment, I was unsure how I’d adapt. But from the beginning, I was trusted — trusted to take ownership, make decisions, and learn through doing. Everyone here is open, supportive, and invested in helping each other succeed. That autonomy, paired with constant encouragement from my manager and peers, became the foundation for my growth — and it’s what continues to define this team and this journey.

My Most Meaningful Moment

One of the most meaningful moments in my early career was helping a candidate transition from a research agency to a brand-side marketing role. What made this placement unforgettable wasn’t just the successful outcome — it was the depth of our conversations along the way.

We discussed far more than job titles and responsibilities. We talked about long-term career goals, family priorities, and even the day-to-day realities of the role’s location. That was the moment I realised how meaningful our work could be.  At Robert Walters, we’re not just filling positions — we’re walking alongside people as they navigate life-changing career decisions. And it’s that mindset that has shaped me into the kind of consultant I strive to be every day.

What Fuels My Journey - Helping Others Shine

Help people find their spark, and they’ll light up everything around them.

I’ve always believed that recruitment is more than just connecting talent to roles — it’s about helping people discover the environments where they truly shine. Just like in the movie Soul, where every character is on a journey to find their spark, I see our work as consultants in a similar way. When someone finds the right opportunity, it doesn’t just change their career — it elevates teams, businesses, and lives.

Alongside that, it’s the people I work with every day who continue to fuel my growth. Our team culture is built on trust, encouragement, and genuine care. We celebrate each other’s wins, lift one another through challenges, and create a space where growth feels both safe and exciting — it’s rare and it’s powerful. It’s a big part of why I’ve been able to keep learning and challenging myself.

Stepping Out, Reaching Further: Growing with Integrity and Purpose

When I first joined Robert Walters, my focus was solely on digital marketing roles. But as time went on, I cover a wide range of marketing positions — even branching into training-related functions. With the guidance of leaders and the unwavering support of our Taiwan commerce team, I’ve found a space where it’s safe to push boundaries, ask questions, and continue evolving — both as a consultant and as a person.

One of the company values that speaks to me most is, “We act with integrity.”

It’s about doing what’s right, even when it’s not the easiest choice — a principle I always carry with me in every decision, professionally and personally.

Looking back on my journey, I’m proud of the growth, the challenges I’ve taken on, and the moments that reminded me why this work matters. I’m grateful I stepped out of my comfort zone and chose this path — one that continues to give me meaning, growth, and the chance to help others find their own spark.