This blog was written by Adilla Saloojee, Project Coordinator, Canadian Employment Connections with ACCES Employment.
There are many unknowns when you are trying to set yourself up for success during the pandemic.
One thing is for sure, onboarding during COVID-19 will likely be done remotely and interacting online is the new normal.
So, are the opportunities to grow during the pandemic limited or infinite?
The one thing the pandemic allows us to do is to nurture new aspects of our professional selves. Kazi Kabir joined the Canadian Employment Connection’s Program as an Employment Consultant during the COVID-19 pandemic. His reflections help us to consider what it takes to be successful while working remotely.
1. Be Adaptable
Canadian employers will be looking for someone adaptable.
While being flexible was once aligned with a willingness to travel to a new location for work, it is now about having an open mindset, adjusting to new work methods, and taking on additional responsibilities.
Kazi shared, “it was difficult to adjust to a new workplace culture without being able to meet my team members in person,” yet, he started his journey with acceptance. Acceptance that he will get through unconventional times and grow from it. Kazi embraced the various collaboration tools and platforms available to him, such as Teams and ZOOM, and invested in the opportunities to share and nurture a thriving collaborative culture.
2. Foster Your Own Professional Development
Connect with colleagues from every program at every opportunity. Kazi reflects on how colleagues can cross-train you by introducing you to new concepts using local industry language and examples. Networking is an essential skill for career development as it is for job searching and is a powerful way to foster connections.
3. Initiate a New Conversation
Be purposeful in scheduling your conversations.
Maximize your learning opportunities, and be prepared to initiate performance-related discussions. Inquiring about your performance and asking for feedback helps you grow in your role and shows leadership. It also demonstrates a willingness to evolve professionally.
Kazi’s first employment experience in Canada includes setting up bi-weekly one-on-one meetings with his manager to review his professional development and growth and discuss upcoming opportunities to broaden his professional experience.
Honouring Kazi’s courage during COVID-19, we remind you that you may find sources of unfamiliarity, yet you can still be in a position of choice. Become masterful at acting within your power.
