Several years ago, Nicole was faced with the harsh reality of limited career choices based on her occupation as a Military Police Officer. At that time, she felt her options were limited. 
One day, she decided to take a leap of faith and reached out to someone who could speak on her behalf for a door that was closed based on her limited experience. Not only was that person able to open that door for her, it led to Nicole’s having a successful 12-year career in the financial industry prior to starting Griffin Staffing Network, LLC.
Griffin Staffing Network, LLC prides itself in placing the top talent in temporary, contract and permanent placement with their clients. With a team that has a combined 26+ years experience in Staffing & Recruitment, they have a unique pool of candidates not posted on the typical boards and referrals not seen in the regular market place. They also pride themselves on being able to staff anything from call center to “C” level management positions. They are a locally owned MBE/WBE staffing company.
Nicole supports her community by serving on the Board of Sabis International Charter School and the Board of Directors for the Intercity Youth Incorporated. She is a committee member on the Women’s Leadership Council of the United Way of Pioneer Valley and The Pioneer Valley Commission Council. Nicole is a participant of the 2014/2015 Leadership Institute for Political and Public Impact Program. She is also the founder and president of Springfield Mustard Seed, an entrepreneurial club that brings together accomplished visionaries. She is also a 2014 BusinessWest “40 Under 40” winner.
When did you start your business and what was your motivation in doing so?
My personal experience sparked a deep desire in me to open doors for others as well. I’ve since had numerous encounters with individuals who really helped me to see the need in our community for career training and I recognized the impact that I could make in the staffing industry. What challenges have you encountered as a woman-owned minority business?
To be honest, the biggest challenge has been the scarcity of mentorship or presence of local senior level diversity to look to as a guide.
Do you have a role model? If so, who and why that particular person?
I have two mentors who reside in NV and CA who have been a tremendous help in starting my business. However, someone that I have really looked up to as a role model (and would love to connect with someday) is Janice Howroyd, CEO of Act∙1 Personal Services. She is a woman of color who started her business by herself with $1500, and was truly considered the “underdog”. The company is now a multi-million dollar enterprise.
How do you define success?
For me, success is not based on the revenue produced, but by the number of people I have helped to procure gainful and career-focused employment, and being a resource to entrepreneurs who I have been able to assist in pursuing their dreams. ■
