Essence Royal

Tell me about yourself and your journey into big tech.

My journey into big tech wasn’t linear. It was a series of bold moves, strategic pivots, and the willingness to bet on myself.

I started out in full-cycle corporate recruiting across various industries. One day, an agency recruiter reached out and asked if I’d consider a role at Alteryx, a data and analytics company. The catch? I’d have to take a step back in title and come in as a sourcer first.

But I saw the bigger picture - I believed the short-term title loss would lead to long-term growth. So I took the role and focused on building strong networks and sharpening my sourcing skills.

I made a quick impact once I got there, and that’s also when I started becoming really visible on LinkedIn.

A hiring manager at Salesforce sent me an InMail with the subject line: “Game recognizes game.” I made my first hire in 14 days, and he said, “Why don’t you just come to Salesforce and do the same?”

And I was like, “Yes! I’m there” - and I got an offer the next week.

I was at Salesforce for about two and a half years, and they put me on the Equality Talent Advocacy team. I was responsible for bringing in underrepresented talent - Black, Brown, Indigenous, Latinx, LGBTQ, differently abled, veterans, and women.

Basically, anyone who self-identified under those groups - I was responsible for their candidacy. And it felt amazing. It felt really good to pull Black and Brown communities into the world of big tech. I was doing really well…and then the layoffs started.

My old company kept calling me, asking me to come back as Director of Employee Experience and DEI. After the third round of layoffs, I took the call. The offer was too good to pass up.

So I went back to Innova Solutions. I created all their employee resource groups. I did onboarding, exit interviews, created their employee value proposition, ran engagement surveys - I did so much. It was an amazing time with great leadership, and I learned a lot.

But I was affected by a reduction in force and unfortunately laid off. 

So I made one phone call to my old boss, and they were like, “Sure!” I had an offer in three days and went back to Salesforce.

So I guess the lesson is: your relationships, your performance, your reputation - those matter more than your title. I just focus on building strong networks and delivering great results.

I love that InMail you got: Game recognizes game. Was that because of your LinkedIn presence?

Yes. Everyone’s always watching. Recruiters, hiring managers - they’re watching.

So if you’re sharing insights, commenting on posts, and showing up authentically…you make it easy for opportunities to find you. That’s how I use LinkedIn.

I highlight candidates I’m hiring. I talk about my work. I speak highly about Salesforce, which elevates the company brand, too. It’s all intentional.

You build relationships, not just connections. Reach out and say, “Hey, want to chat?” Hop on a call. That’s how you build your network. You never know when you’ll need someone later.

Also - connect with recruiters. All of them. Especially the ones at companies you want to work for. They’re watching how you show up.

These sales reps are out here crushing quota - 173%! - and not saying anything. I want to create a space where people feel comfortable bragging on themselves and showcasing their success. It helps their brand. It helps leaders notice them.

In your current role, what does a typical day look like and what are your main job responsibilities?

In my previous role as an Equality Talent Partner, I was focused on reducing bias in hiring - making sure interviewers were certified, using competency-based questions, and ensuring candidates weren’t being judged unfairly.

Now, I’m in Talent Attraction. My job is to attract top talent.

I do that through LinkedIn - posting content that sparks conversation, highlights Salesforce culture, and gives insight into our hiring practices.

I also use LinkedIn Recruiter and Beamery, review job applicants, and process referrals. My job is to bring in great people and get them into the pipeline.

What advice do you have for others who want to break into big tech or do what you do?

It takes strategy, visibility, and a strong network.

Here’s what I did:

1. Get a mentor and an executive sponsor. Your mentor helps you grow and gives you feedback. Your sponsor says your name in rooms you’re not in. That’s how you unlock opportunities.
   

2. Exceed expectations. If the goal is five, I deliver eight. And if I get to ten, even better. Always over-deliver.
   

3. Optimize LinkedIn. Make sure people think of you first when an opportunity arises. Share insights. Comment on posts. Be accessible.
   

4. Build real relationships. Don’t just collect connections - build them.
   

5. Stay ready so you don’t have to get ready. Be top of mind. Make your name one people know.

For those wondering - how do you suggest finding a mentor or sponsor?

Find the smartest person in the room. Shadow them. Listen to their calls. Watch how they work. Learn everything.

Then find someone you’re inspired by for your sponsor. 

Thank you so much for taking the time to read today’s newsletter! If you have any feedback, please let me know down below. Have a great rest of the week and see you in the next one! Cheers, Brenna

Other ways I can help you

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