By Cindy Adams
Ever wonder if your past, present, and future are actually aligned with your career and personal goals? Sometimes we need to step outside our own heads to find those answers. Usually, that means shelling out cash for professionals to guide you through that exploration. You wouldn't expect that kind of help to be free, and you definitely wouldn't expect it to be provided by your employer. Yet at enCircle, it is.
"We really want the best for our people, whether that's furthering a career at enCircle or starting one somewhere else. We genuinely value and support personal and professional growth," says Kate Lewis, enCircle's Director of Learning and Development.
Kate recently wrapped up the first cohort of a Career Planning Program offered to all enCircle employees. The six-month program helps participants explore their strengths, growth opportunities, personality traits, goals, interview skills, resume building and future possibilities.
"I took the course because I wanted to learn more about myself, both personally and professionally," explains Heather Watkins, enCircle's HR Manager of Recruitment and Retention. "I also felt like it would strengthen my management skills."
Heather joined six other enCircle employees in this first cohort, including Sheila Wyatt, Senior Administrative Specialist in the Richmond office.
"I meet so many people in my role that I thought it might be nice to have firsthand experience to share," Sheila says. “Along the way, the course helped me identify strengths and weaknesses I hadn't recognized before. Sometimes we're harder on ourselves, and others can see our skills more clearly. It was refreshing to talk with someone about where my career might be heading."
The class includes four group trainings and six one-on-one sessions with Kate. Between meetings, participants have time for reflection and homework assignments.
"Kate is incredibly flexible with scheduling and adapts to changing priorities," Heather notes. "She lets us forge our own paths and she plays whatever role we need; sometimes that's a coach, sometimes just a listener. She allows the conversation to naturally find its way."
Heather estimates the time commitment to be around three hours per month.
"If you can commit the time, it's absolutely worth the investment," she says.
Sheila couldn't agree more.
"I feel so much more confident moving forward," she says with enthusiasm. "If you're uncomfortable putting yourself out there, this is a perfect course to take. Kate is amazing at recognizing strengths, helping overcome weaknesses, and guiding you toward possible career paths."
She grins and adds, "Plus, it's completely free! I mean, come on—take advantage of it!"
Learn more about working at enCircle here.
