Get to know Håkon Dager, “Our Recruitment Specialist and Cheif Birken Officer”

Meet our Recruitment Specialist and Chief Birken Officer at AvantGarde Search. Håkon is all about getting things done with efficiency and structure, while making sure not to overcomplicate tasks. He takes great pride in his work and expects the same from his colleagues.

At AvantGarde Search, Håkon values a collaborative environment where everyone contributes to joint success, fostering healthy and fun competition, and is open to sharing knowledge and asking for help. His favourite aspects of the job include the excitement of the starting phase, finding the balance between efficiency and fun, and encouraging his team to play to each other’s strengths.

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How would you say you tailor your recruitment process to meet the unique needs of different companies?
I always start by understanding why the particular company need new people, and also understanding the company in itself as well as its values and goals. Doing this always helps me craft a recruitment process that aligns with their unique culture and needs, ensuring long-term success for them.

After you have a good understanding of the client and what they are looking for, how do you ensure that candidates are a good fit for the company’s values?
I discuss both the candidate's qualifications and the company’s culture and values, then look for alignment in their personal beliefs and professional aspirations. This way, the fit is not just technical, but cultural as well. I think it’s just as important as being technical specially with smaller companies to make sure the candidates personal values align with the company to thrive in a smaller closed space environment.

With many successful hires under your belt, what’s one of your proudest moments since becoming a recruiter here?

I feel the most  proud when both the client and candidate are happy during and after the hire. That’s when I allow myself to take pride in my work.

What’s a fun or unique activity you do outside of work that helps recharge you for your role?

I enjoy playing golf, skiing, hunting, spending time with family and friends, and working out.

What personal values align most with AvantGarde Search?

My personal values align closely with Avant-Garde's emphasis on innovation and forward-thinking. I place a high value on the trust we receive from the leadership at Avant-Garde to identify the best solutions for connecting top talent with the right opportunities. This trust not only empowers me but also reflects our shared commitment to challenging the status quo and achieving exceptional results.

How would your colleagues describe your personality in three words?

Helpful, honest, and professional!

Which office pet would you want to adopt?

None. I prefer to have my own dog someday that I can take hunting!!

If the team had a theme song or motto, what would it be?

A motto I believe that fits us is "Professional but fun."

What’s one “superpower” you’d say is necessary to thrive in this company?

Adaptability. At AvantGarde search we are placed in a fast-paced environment, having a "can-do" attitude and the ability to embrace change is essential to thrive in our company!

Thank you Håkon for taking the time to answer our interview questions. Your insights and perspectives are invaluable, and we truly appreciate the thoughtful responses. Your dedication to quality, growth, and collaboration shines through in everything you do. We're grateful to have you share your experiences!