Dream job
If someone would have asked me five years ago whether I would like to fulfil a job in the IT branch, I think a would have laughed and said: “no way!” But sometimes life happens. All my working life I found out that networking is so important in many ways.
When my previous job surprisingly came to an end due to Covid-19, it was a huge disappointment and a shock at the same time. Especially because I had just become a mother and needed assurance. Not even a week went past and I got into ‘fight mode.’ I was determined to find a new and awesome job so I could take care of myself, my family and have some fun along the way.
After informing my network and reaching out to some interesting company’s, I got myself into the whole application procedure. This gave me new insights about myself. It’s also interesting to see that, when you are forced, new opportunities come up and you decide for yourself: ‘what is important to me?’ and ‘what aspects should my ideal job have?’ I am a generalist, I find many things interesting and I am open to new things. Because of this I used to find it difficult when people said: “what does your career path look like? What is your specialty?” Well, I don't have that. But I do have requirements and conditions of which I know that they make me thrive.
What makes my dream job?
For me personally it means;
You get challenged, but also receive the confidence to take on new things
You get energy from at least 80% of your work, because you are playing to the strengths of your talents and competencies
Have daily great laughs with your ‘crazy’ colleagues
Good work-private balance
Celebrating company, team and individual successes
There are career opportunities within the company
Doing great stuff and really help out the customer
Being part of a company culture where you can truly be yourself
A manager who focusses on your talent
A company that facilitates working from home but has such a nice office that you prefer to be there
Great benefits such as an office gym with trainer, nice brand gifts, fun events for staff (sometimes with partner/family)
The possibility to follow training courses or coaching to further develop yourself to be able to perform your job at ITQ in the best possible way
How did we find each other?
Then, an old study friend called me. (tadaaa networking!) He knew I was searching and was very excited: “I’ve got the perfect organization for you!” He told me about ITQ and that they were looking for Sales people. I called if I could have a cup of coffee to get an introduction to the company. Because I believe that a job application works both ways. A company must also sell itself by explaining why I should choose them. What does it mean to work at ITQ? What are they selling? Which core values are used and how important do they think company culture and employer branding are? These were some of the issues we discussed in the first meeting.
It was a very open and honest conversation. Now that I work here, I also experience that everything that was said and promised in that conversation is true. From my work experience as a sales consultant at Randstad (global leader in the HR services industry) I know this is so important. If the match between what they told you and how it is, does not correspond, people will be disappointed and feel out of place. And worst-case scenario they will leave you on short notice. That’s frustrating for both parties and does not benefit the working atmosphere within an organization.
