Making a Difference – starting a new career

So, it’s been 3 whole weeks and I feel like I am already part of the furniture.  I’ve been reflecting on my journey that led me to Pro-Development.  That serendipitous moment when I messaged Will after seeing her Brimham Rocks post, to speaking to Michelle the next day, applying for the role the same day and attending the assessment centre, along with other candidates, the following Thursday! It all happened in a flash. It's been a rollercoaster ride, but it has all led to this moment, and I couldn't be more grateful. 

I thought it would be helpful to share some of my insights which would be worth reading if you are recruiting as it gives you a good flavour of what makes a difference to prospective and successful candidates.

Make the first moment count

I’ll never forget my first visit to Forest Farm. My first task at the assessment event was to get through the locked door, with Lee on the other side!  So funny. What a great warm welcome I received that day, and it has continued ever since.  I am so happy to be with such a fun loving and innovative team and I am excited to be with you all as we continue to grow and support companies to grow too.

The interview process

Having been successful in the assessment session, which I loved, I then had to plan for the big interview!  This turned out to be a pleasant surprise.  I really enjoyed delivering the leadership session and the interview afterwards.  It was important for me to not only showcase my skills but also ensure that I would be a good fit for the company.  Tracy, Lee and Rob were so friendly and made me feel comfortable right away. After the delivery and feedback session we discussed my past experiences and how they align with the job requirements. I knew at the interview it was the place I wanted to be.  I loved the vision and values of the company but more importantly, the people.  The interview was great, the feedback was positive, I just had to wait for the call and hope I had done enough.

Getting the call

I honestly couldn’t be more thrilled about the call I got on the following Monday from Lee.  His manner and enthusiasm for supporting me and Pro-Development was infectious.  How could I say no?

Starting a new job is always a mix of nervousness and excitement, but this time around, it felt different, in a positive way.  It felt like the beginning of an exciting and challenging new chapter in my life, full of endless possibilities and growth opportunities with an amazing company who really do want to make a difference.  I love their honesty, integrity and fun.  The standard of work and dedication to their clients is high and that meets my expectations too, so it’s a great fit!

The challenge

The biggest challenge for me is the change in the approach to a much more flexible, fun, varied and bespoke methods of delivery.   However, this is a challenge that grabbed my attention and passion, and I knew I would love that every day is different, the clients get the right delivery of the right courses, events and sessions to meet their needs to grow as a company and I can get creative with them and my team.

It’s a dream job and I believe in my abilities to adapt and thrive in this new environment.  I know my passion for supporting and coaching people to progress will help me embrace this new role.

I am also filled with a sense of curiosity and eagerness to learn.   Starting my new job means stepping into a whole new world, with its own unique culture and way of doing things. I am excited to learn from my colleagues, be mentored by experienced professionals, and soak up as much knowledge as I can. I am ready to ask questions, take on new projects, and push myself to reach new heights.

Embracing Change

One thing that I have learned throughout this process is the importance of embracing change. Change can be scary and uncomfortable, but it is also an essential part of personal and professional growth. It pushes us out of our comfort zones and forces us to adapt and learn new things. So, as I stepped into this new role, I was ready to embrace all the challenges and changes that come my way.

Get induction right

The first few weeks have been a whirlwind of introductions, new faces, and information overload. Trying to remember all the names of the numerous modules and find resources on the drive and understand the intricacies of my new role is taking a bit of time, but I am taking it one day at a time and I already know so much more than I did 3 weeks ago.  Joining in on L&D meetings and feeling like I belong and am valued right from the start means so much to me.

I have shadowed my colleagues and had been involved in delivery in sessions already, which is a fab feeling.  I am very grateful for the warm welcome I have received from my colleagues.  It’s the first time in my whole career I have had a full induction, can you believe that?  I am so grateful to the team who have supported me through my first weeks and being patient with me as I navigate my way through my new responsibilities and ways of working.

Purpose and alignment

Pro-Development support everything in a business that I believe is important as an employee and a previous leader.  What they do aligns with my own values, and I want to be part of the journey and help as much as possible.  Thank you, Michelle, Tracy and the team, for seeing me as the right fit for you too.

As I settle into my new role, I am also setting personal goals for myself too.  I want to challenge myself to continuously learn and grow, to push the boundaries of what I can achieve both personally and professionally. Watch this space!