Sonya is one of our longer-tenured employees here at The Connection. She started with us back in 1997! Since then, she’s grown from a Call Center Representative to a human resource position (and it didn’t take 20 years to get there, either!).

She has a unique perspective on how The Connection has grown and evolved over the years, so we wanted to learn a little bit more about her journey. Here’s the interview:

• Name: Sonya
• Tenure: 22 years
• Job Title: Human Resource Administrator

Q: What was your first experience with The Connection (the type of job you applied for, and when did you apply)?   
A: Customer Service Representative back in 1997.

Q: Please tell us a bit about the application process. Was it easy?
A: Very easy. I was referred by a friend. The Human Resources Manager (HRM) called me and asked me to come in and complete an application.  She called me a few days later and hired me. The Connection had a friendly, comfortable atmosphere right from the start.

Q: How much training did you receive for your first position at The Connection?
A: I don’t remember exactly, but I believe a week or so. And then I double jacked with someone for a couple of days. After that, I was off on my own.

Q: Can you tell us a bit about that training? Was it helpful?
A: The training explained the client’s background and specifically how to answer their calls correctly and how to answer the customer’s questions by looking up answers. I thought it was very helpful!

Q: Please describe your job. What do you do each day? What kinds of hours do you work?A: I now work as the Corporate HR Administrator. I work from 9-5 most days, sometimes 8-4. I work with benefits, employment verifications, managing the employee-termed personnel files and help fill in for the Receptionist when needed.

Q: Do you have flexible hours?
A: Yes!

Q: Have you learned job skills that will help you in the future?  
A: Yes, absolutely.

Q: What are your favorite things about your job?  
A: My co-workers, flexibility, vacation time and – having been here so long – being knowledgeable in my area and helping my HR team with questions to help them learn.  It’s all a team effort!

Q: What was the last job you had? How does this job compare?  
A: I have been with The Connection for 22 years. Prior to being in HR, I was an Account Coordinator.  Before The Connection, I worked as an Assistant Manager for a Pizza Hut. I would say it’s definitely nice being in an office environment.

Q: Is there anything else we should know about working for The Connection?  
A: There is room to grow and explore new opportunities.  The people who work for The Connection are awesome!

Q: Tell us about your career path with The Connection. When were you promoted, and what position were you in?  
A: I started out as a Customer Service Representative in 1997. In 1998, I was accepted for a job as an Account Coordinator and in 2000, I was accepted for a job as the HR Administrator.

Q: How much training have you received for your current position?
A: Working side by side with other HR team members, initial training was a few days to a week, I would say, with asking questions as needed.

Q: How much coaching do you get from your supervisor?
A: I can ask questions as needed. I’m definitely not micromanaged, which is great.  I feel just the right amount of guidance to be on track with my job so that I can be in the best position to succeed.