Discover how Shena Keller, one of our dedicated recruiters, has been changing lives at Friday Services for over a decade and why she loves what she does.
At Friday Services, our professional recruiters do more than just fill job positions—they change lives. Shena Keller, who has been with Friday for 12 years, exemplifies this mission every day. Starting at our Morganton location, she quickly rose through the ranks and has been making an impact in Asheville since 2019. We sat down with Shena to learn more about her journey, her insights into the evolving job market, and what keeps her passionate about her work.
Shena, you’ve been with Friday for 12 years. How did your journey with the company begin?
I started at Friday at the front desk in our Morganton office, and just two months later, I was promoted to a recruiter role. It was a fast transition, but I was excited to take on the challenge. Back then, recruiting was a bit different—we had a pool of candidates ready to go, and if a client called with a job they wanted to fill, we could fill them almost immediately. But around 2017, things started to change. Suddenly, we had more jobs than we had candidates to fill them. And since COVID, it’s become even more challenging. Now, we’re not just competing with other staffing agencies, but also with fast food places and gig economy jobs like DoorDash, Uber, and Amazon Flex, where people can set their own schedules.
That’s interesting. How do you think the rise of gig work has impacted the traditional job market?
Gig work has become one of our biggest competitors. A lot of people prefer the flexibility of making their own schedules with jobs like DoorDash or Amazon Flex. They can work when they want and get paid quickly, often the next day. It’s tough to compete with that. However, one thing those gigs don’t offer is benefits. At Friday, we offer full benefits—medical, dental, vision, 401k with matching—all of that. We’re seeing that some people are surprised to learn we offer such comprehensive benefits. But it’s one of the things that makes Friday Services different and a great place for long-term career growth.
What motivates you to stay in recruiting after all these years?
It’s the opportunity to change people’s lives. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing someone go from struggling to thriving because of a job you helped them get. And it’s not just about finding them a job—it’s about building relationships. I still keep in touch with people I placed years ago, even if they’ve moved on from Friday. They still text me to say “Hi, Ms. Shena!” or update me on how they’re doing. That’s what keeps me going.
What does a typical day look like for you as a recruiter?
My days vary a lot, which I love. I split my time between working in the office and working from home. When I’m in the office, I handle walk-ins, conduct interviews, and do orientations for new hires. At home, I focus more on recruiting, building resumes, and submitting candidates to business clients. It’s a busy job, but you have to be a multitasker to make it as a recruiter. You never know what your day is going to look like, but that’s part of the excitement.
Is there anything you wish candidates knew about working with a staffing agency like Friday?
One misconception is that staffing agencies take a cut of your pay, but that’s not how we operate. If we tell you you’re making $15 an hour, that’s exactly what you’ll get. Another thing is that some people are hesitant to apply for manufacturing jobs because they think they need special skills. But many of our business clients are willing to train people who are eager to learn and have a good work ethic. We have entry-level positions that offer great opportunities for growth!
How do you build relationships with clients (a.k.a. businesses who need to hire employees), and how does that influence your recruiting?
Building strong relationships with clients is crucial. I like to do client tours to really understand what they need. When I can see the workplace and meet the people, it gives me a much better idea of who will be a good fit. It’s not just about skills; it’s about culture fit, too. Some of my clients I talk to for 45 minutes, not just about work but about their lives. Those relationships help me place the right candidates with the right companies. It’s all about understanding both sides—the client and the candidate.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I have two boys, and my youngest is a senior in high school this year! My boyfriend and I love to travel—we go to places like Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and the beach whenever we can. I also enjoy fishing, even though I’m not very good at it! It’s just relaxing to be out on the water, whether I catch anything or not. It’s a great way to unwind after a busy week.
Shena’s passion for helping others and her dedication to her work are what make her an invaluable part of the Friday team. If you’re looking for a professional recruiter in Asheville or trying to find a job in Western North Carolina, reach out to Shena or any of our team members. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
