For as long as I can remember, I've believed in hard work. I didn't grow up with much, but I always had the mindset that if I worked hard, stayed consistent, and treated people with respect — good things would follow. My name is Ertan Ikic, and this is my view of the American Dream.

Starting from Humble Beginnings

Before I became the founder of Top Pick Recruiting LLC, I spent years working as a butcher. It was an honest trade — long hours, early mornings, and hard physical work. That job taught me more about life than any business degree could.

As a butcher, you learn precision, discipline, and patience. You learn how to earn people's trust through quality and consistency. Looking back now, I realize that every cut of meat I prepared was teaching me how to approach business — with care, attention, and pride in what I do.

Taking a Leap of Faith

When I decided to move into the recruitment industry, I had no safety net. No investors, no corporate connections — just determination. Many people doubted me. They said the market was too competitive, that I didn't have the experience or background.

But I had something more powerful — belief in myself and a strong work ethic. I knew that if I treated people with honesty and respect, success would come.

That belief led to the creation of Top Pick Recruiting LLC, a company built not just to fill positions, but to help people find purpose in their work.

The Real Meaning of the American Dream

For me, the American Dream isn't about getting rich or having luxury cars. It's about freedom — the freedom to build your own path, to take risks, and to create something meaningful from nothing.

I came to this country with the hope of a better life, but I quickly realized that the American Dream isn't something that's handed to you. It's something you build with your own two hands.

When I started my business, I worked long hours, made countless mistakes, and learned everything through experience. There were moments when I questioned if it was all worth it — but every time, I reminded myself that this was part of the dream. The struggle is what makes the journey valuable.

Building Relationships, Not Just a Company

One of the biggest lessons I've learned in America is that success comes from relationships. You can't do it alone. Whether in life or business, people are the foundation of everything.

That's why Top Pick Recruiting LLC was built around genuine human connection. My approach is simple — understand people, listen to them, and help them reach their goals.

I've seen countless candidates transform their lives through the right job, and I've helped companies find talent that truly fits their culture. Those moments remind me why I do what I do.

Giving Back and Moving Forward

Living the American Dream means never forgetting where you came from. I still carry the lessons from my days as a butcher — humility, precision, and hard work. And I try to pass those values to everyone I work with.

To me, success isn't measured by numbers — it's measured by impact. It's about helping others, creating opportunities, and building something that lasts.

So when people ask me what the American Dream means, I tell them this:

"It's not about where you start, it's about how much heart you put into the journey."

That's the spirit that built Top Pick Recruiting LLC, and it's the mindset that continues to guide me every single day.