What's your job about?
I am currently working at DHL Supply Chain as a Human Resource Graduate. The Human Resource Graduate program is a two year rotational program with a focus on all Human Resource functions including Acquisition, Learning & Development, Employment Relations, Business Partners and Payroll. I am currently in the process of completing the Acquisition and Learning & Development rotation where my tasks have included completing the recruitment process from start to finish, coordinating Country Induction sessions, coordinate and facilitate Project Recruit (assessment and interview process) and participate in multiple cross divisional projects.
What's your background?
I grew up in Hunters Hill attending Villa Maria Primary school and then progressed to Monte Sant Angelo Mercy College, North Sydney for high school. I completed my HSC in 2011 and was accepted into the University of Western Sydney (now known as Western Sydney University) to complete a Bachelor of Business and Commerce Majoring in Hospitality at their Parramatta Campus. In this time I learned a life lesson that something you enjoy at school may not necessarily be the correct career path. I had completed my first year of my degree in Hospitality and realised it certainly was not the correct career path for me. In 2013 I applied to transfer universities to Macquarie University and was accepted to complete a Bachelor of Business and Commerce Majoring in Human Resources. I chose Human Resources because I believed I was a “people person”, which over time I learnt is the most important quality a person can have in Human Resources. I completed my degree at Macquarie University in December 2016 and the minute I received my results I was on SEEK.com applying for full time Human Resource Graduate or Administration roles. Through this time I attended a few interviews for different companies, which I was unsuccessful and was even told that my “personality was too bubbly and outgoing for their team”. I started to become apprehensive that I would not find a role in my field of studies but always remained optimistic, that was when I saw the DHL Supply Chain Human Resource Graduate Advertisement. I sent my resume and proceeded through the recruitment process and was successful in my application. I will always remember the day I received the call because I was so shocked that I asked the hiring manager if they have the right Sarah, whilst jumping up and down in excitement.
Could someone with a different background do your job?
An individual who has a background and/or education in Human Resources would be advantageous but would not determine their suitability for the role. Their personality, interests and work ethic would be a far better indicator; for example if someone is interested in a Human Resource Graduate role you must be a “people person”, have a “can do” attitude, effective time management, versatile and want to cross train in all functions of Human Resources.
What's the coolest thing about your job?
The coolest thing about my job is my Team! I get to work alongside an amazing team of Human Resource professionals who have taught and mentored me for the duration of the program. They are never too busy for my questions or to teach me something new. As a Human Resource Graduate at DHL Supply Chain, there is the opportunity to work in all areas of Human Resources including Acquisition, Learning & Development, Employment Relations, Business Partners and Payroll. Prior to working for DHL Supply chain I had never been interested in Recruitment and through this opportunity I have been pleasantly surprised. I never realised the effect you have on a person’s life as a recruiter, you are giving them a job which will provide them income. It is the most fulfilling feeling when you complete the recruitment process, offer the role to the successful candidate and hear their reaction.
What are the limitations of your job?
Individuals who wish to be a Human Resource Graduate or even work in Human Resources needs to be a “people person” and have the confidence to interact with a diverse range of employees in all levels of the organisation. The individual needs to be open to change, the workforce is constantly changing and in Human Resources you need to be a change agent who helps drive positive changes. Candidates must have a “Can do” attitude, they must be prepared to take on any task or challenge presented to them and finds a way to complete this by the deadline in addition to their daily tasks.
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