Recruiting as a career possibility wasn’t even on Danielle Norris’s radar as a communication and media studies major at the University of Denver. But when she landed an interview at a small recruiting agency, she liked what she learned about the job—and this friendly California native has made recruiting her career ever since. Get to know our resident social butterfly and toast maker (who makes a mean margarita) and what led her to TGRP.
Where are you from originally?
I grew up in Marin County outside of San Francisco.
What led you to Colorado?
I moved to Denver to attend University of Denver (2013 graduate). I fell in love and decided to stay in Colorado. I’ve since convinced my parents and my sister to move here too, so my whole family is here now.
What’s your pre-TGRP professional background?
When I was nearing graduation from DU, I went to a recruiting firm in search of a job in advertising or marketing, but the firm actually asked if I’d be interested in working for them! Recruiting seemed very appealing and fun, and as a social person, I thought I’d try it out. That was nine years ago!
Safe to say you never thought of recruiting as a career?
I totally fell into recruiting, but it has turned out to a great fit! You get to be creative and think outside of the box. That creativity keeps me on my toes and makes every day exciting. I’ve been a manager since last year, so it’s been great to continue recruiting while also managing a recruiting team.
What brought you to TGRP Solutions in 2019?
After a year at that smaller recruiting agency, I joined a much larger organization—the accounting and finance division of one of the largest staffing agencies in the world. I spent four years there. I was lucky enough to make the jump to TGRP Solutions with two of my coworkers. I really liked the culture and the team at TGRP. It was refreshing to return to a smaller firm too.
What do you love about your job?
TGRP has such a great culture. The people are awesome and your voice is heard at this company. Mark [Reister, founder] is very open to ideas and willing to listen, which is not the norm at most companies. I love that the job is different every day and we’re always moving a mile a minute. There is never a dull day!
What’s your silly-but-real job title?
Chief Fun Officer
When you’re not at work, where would we find you?
I’m a new mom (February 2022), so definitely spending time with my husband, my baby girl, Palmer, and my golden retriever. I love spending time outside, so you’d probably find us going for a walk in the sunshine or enjoying some stand-up paddle boarding.
What’s a movie you could watch over and over?
I’ve got to go with Wedding Crashers. It never gets old!
Who do you admire most in your life?
That’s easy: my dad. He’s extremely hardworking, has an incredible work ethic, and on top of that, he is so much fun. He never meets a stranger and he maintains those relationships over a lifetime. I love being around both my dad and my mom. My parents are way more fun than me!
If you could have lunch with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?
My grandmother on my mom’s side and my grandfather on my dad’s side. They’re part of my life even though I’ve never met them, so that would be pretty special to talk with them and hear their stories.
What are you passionate about?
Everything to do with family, travel, and my career.
Any little-known facts about Danielle?
I was a swimmer until about fifth grade and I won state in California for the breast stroke, but I gave it up after that and went on to play lacrosse through high school.
How would your coworkers describe you?
I think they’d say fun, outgoing, hardworking and the life of the party! I am also vocal, and I’m not afraid to suggest ideas or push back if it allows us to strive forward.
Words to live by?
Laugh every day.
Where do you think TGRP will be 5-10 years from now?
Mark has plans to expand into other states, but as far as Colorado goes, I think we’ll be one of the top recruiting firms in the area. We want to be known as a company that develops strong relationships and cares about people. We have a personal touch that you can’t find at a lot of firms. I believe we’ll be known as the firm you want to work with if you’re a consultant, candidate or company.
