Leanne Morley, Director of Construction at Capstone, joined us this year on July the 5th, just as the second lockdown in Sydney started. It’s safe to say that Leanne’s on-boarding was a little different to usual.

We wanted to find out what it was really like to start a new job during a pandemic and so we sat down with her to discuss just that. Leanne also talked us through her career in the recruitment industry so far, tips on-boarding remotely and the differences she has noticed in the on-boarding process.

1: Firstly, tell us about your career and how you got started in the recruitment industry?

I left school and was accepted into a fine art college in Derbyshire.  After a while I realised that art was more of a hobby for me and not a career, I started looking at alternative options with no real focus in mind. I ended up accepting a role working for a recruitment company in Nottinghamshire as a candidate resourcer. I worked my way up through the company eventually becoming the manager of the office before I accepted a role to work for a global recruitment company in Sydney. I spent eleven years working for this company in Sydney where I specialised in the construction space and eventually became the business director of this area of the business.

Recruitment has not only given me a career that I am genuinely very passionate about, but it has also provided me with life-changing opportunities such as the opportunity to move to Sydney.

2: Speaking as someone who has joined a business during a global pandemic, what differences have you have noticed in the on-boarding process?

I was fortunate enough to join a company that truly value their people, I was made to feel very welcome by the entire team from the outset. The whole team at Capstone has been a great support through a challenging time and I feel I can always rely on them.  It is quite unusual and somewhat daunting starting in a business having not worked a day in the office or worked with any of my team members, but it has proven to be quite a smooth transition.

Every part of the on-boarding process is different pre-covid. From face-to-face interviews to first day procedures to meeting the wider team. Everyone has to be adaptable to an ever changing workplace at the moment.

3: What can a business do to make a new staff member’s joining experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible?

Have a plan!

Have a plan in place for on-boarding any remote hires. Not just for the first day but also for the first week, first month, and ultimately for the first six months.

Companies tend to have a six-month probation period for candidates, but candidates will also have a six-month probation period for their employers.

It can be more than just an operational plan. How can you integrate someone into your business without them being in your business? Weekly calls. Fun activities. Open and honest communication. Clear targets. Taking the time to talk to new employees on either zoom or a phone call (resist a quick email).

Over the last few months at Capstone, I have spoken to so many people across all our offices, that have just called to say “Hello” and get to know me better. I feel part of the team which is important to me.

4: In this sort of new normal we’re all adjusting to, what are some of the best technologies and tools available for people starting a new job?

Teams and ZOOM etc has completely changed the way we work forever. No longer do you have to be there in person to join meetings. It is now acceptable to have a completely remote working environment.  In saying that, these calls/meeting tend to be all about business. Video calls for targets, business reviews, business plans, interviews.  It is important to not forget the personal aspect that your new employee is missing out on by not being in the office. They are not able to truly get to know their team members on a personal level via business calls. I would recommend just a phone call for a discussion not work-related. A WhatsApp group for non-work-related messages. Team activities once a week etc.

Personally, I think it’s important that the personal touch remains in place as much as possible and is not totally overtaken by technology.

Finally, do you have any advice for those seeking to further their careers during COVID-19?

If you have been unfortunate enough to lose your employment during COVID 19, I would recommend using this time to update your resume and to make it as clear, concise, and tailored as possible. Ensure every role you apply to is relevant to your experience. Consider undertaking some of the free TAFE courses online to up-skill during these very difficult times. Try and limit dealing with 1 or 2 recruiters to continue that tailored response.

Considering a career change in a global pandemic can be quite daunting and it is not a decision to be taken lightly. However, continuing to work in a job that you may no longer enjoy or feel fulfilled in, as well as being in the middle of a global pandemic can also be very tough. If you are passionate about your career, have the resilience to work through what may be still some tough times to come then moving roles could be an option.

Even though we are in a global pandemic there are some very good, interesting positions available. The positive aspect is that these positions are not taken lightly by the hiring managers. These are real positions that a lot of thought and consideration has gone into before a company starts the hiring process, resulting in there being some great opportunities out there right now.

Career Services

If you are a candidate looking for a new role in the Construction sector please Register with Capstone. By doing so we are able to be proactive in helping you identify and achieve your career goals. For further Career Services information please go to:  https://capstonerecruitment.com.au/career-services/

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