What’s your “elevator pitch” and very briefly share what your company or organization does?
If you’re looking for talent, you can utilize our services on top of your in-house recruitment for free*** (just kidding—but we do only charge a fee if you love our candidate so much that you select them for the job)!
What’s something people would be surprised to learn about you?
I’ve been splitting time between Hawai‘i and NYC trying to get my first app (Spilt) off the ground! Spilt is a social media app that helps you see what your friends are watching and what they’re saying about it. It keeps track of what episode you’re on and only shows you posts up to that point—say goodbye to annoying spoilers!
It’s also great for live sporting events (i.e., teasing your Chiefs friends during the Super Bowl all at once instead of in multiple group chats…six sacks on Mahomes anyone?). It allows you to connect with friends despite watching things from different geographies and time continuums. In other words, watch together even when you’re apart. Download it on the App Store by searching “spilt-tv.” It’s still in the early stages so I would love your input (and/or investment—haha)!
You have one day off and no responsibilities—what’s your dream way to spend it in Hawai‘i?
I would hit the golf course early in the morning (you can’t keep a washed up softball player down) and then I’d go on a food tour. I’d hit Chun Wah Kam for breakfast (the pork hash there is unmatched), then Paradise Poke for their spicy ahi (big fan of spicy ahi with tobiko in it), then Millions for their BBQ chicken and kimchi jjigae (need I say more?), followed by Kim Chee II in Kaimuki (best fish jun in the world), and finally Genki Kapahulu (I usually mop 10 plates—light work). After that…does anyone have any recommendations for lunch or dinner?
What advice would you give to someone just starting out in your industry?
I am obsessed with connecting with people (not sure what gave it away between building a social media company or being a recruiter). I am a strong believer that your network really is the greatest asset you can have in any role. Channel your inner extrovert (or fake it ‘til you make it), and get out there and leave an impression!
Don’t be afraid to take high-level executives out for coffee (or a pau hana if you need a bit of courage), and build relationships where you can ask for advice and feedback on projects. Be brave and go to networking events by yourself. You won’t be the only person there alone, and the colleagues and friends you meet along the way will play a big role in your professional and even personal life.
The people of Hawai‘i are the most warm and welcoming in the world, and the business professionals here are no different. They are always willing to go above and beyond to help the next generation of young professionals, and their advice and mentorship is invaluable. Never be embarrassed to admit you’re not an expert (yet) and make an effort to learn constantly.
Pro tip: Learn how to golf, it’s way more fun networking and making deals out on the course with a few Heineken Lights than it is over the phone or in the office (don’t tell my boss I said that)!
How do you define success for yourself right now?
Luckily for me, I grew up watching a parent start her own business and have seen the ins and outs of what that takes (shoutout Marie!). As I embark on my own venture with Spilt, I feel well equipped to deal with the ups and downs that lie ahead. Yes, I’ll feel successful when Spilt takes off and I am relaxing on my beachfront mansion in Kahala as I close deals with Netflix, Hulu, and the like…but I think my biggest measure of success will be when people go up to my mom and say, “You’re Jenna Kumabe’s mom” instead of coming up to me and saying, “You’re Marie Kumabe’s daughter!”
