From Early Career to Consulting Success: How Workday Fast-Tracked My Growth
More Than Just a Job
In the summer of 2021, I found myself with a newly-minted degree from the University of Santa Clara, an eagerness to contribute, and a desire to work for a large company. Above all else, company culture was the leading driver in my job search.
I set out to find a company that valued its people, offered meaningful career development, and had a strong early-career support system. After hours of research and multiple networking conversations, Workday’s reputation as an employee-first organization, coupled with their emphasis on fun, continued to rise to the top of my list. Workday’s Generation Workday (GW) program checked all of the boxes for me. It’s designed to help new grads like me build a strong foundation and connect with other early-career professionals. The support and camaraderie within the program have been instrumental in developing core skills that will pave the way for the trajectory of my career.
Leveling Up My Skills
I started my Workday journey as a Field Readiness Architect on the Higher Education Solutions Enablement team and have since transitioned to a Functional Consultant role within the Higher Education Services Organization. I appreciate Workday’s commitment to employee growth and development, but what truly stands out is the emphasis on collaboration and community.
To foster a supportive and engaging employee experience, my organization’s director established a Culture Club built on four pillars: Communication, Connection, Knowledge, and Employee Experience. When our leaders sought volunteers to lead Culture Club initiatives, I became Co-Chair of the Knowledge Pillar. This role provided invaluable experience. I co-led a team of Workmates in more senior positions (like Engagement Managers and Project Directors) than I typically collaborate with. This accelerated my growth and allowed me to build relationships I might not have otherwise formed. This passion for community extends beyond my team; in August 2024, I co-founded the San Francisco Office Run Club, bringing together colleagues to build community and well-being. Learning how to communicate ideas, rally people, and create an inclusive space has been invaluable; especially in consulting, where the ability to engage diverse audiences is key.
Workday champions a culture of growth, where we’re constantly encouraged to push our boundaries and explore new horizons. In the summer of 2023, I took a leap of faith and volunteered to present at Workday’s Altitude conference. That meant speaking in front of 150+ people! It was a thrilling experience that pushed me outside my comfort zone, but it allowed me to showcase my expertise and connect with fellow Workday enthusiasts. This experience, along with many others at Workday, has been a testament to the company’s incredibly supportive environment. I’ve gained skills that go beyond consulting, like navigating challenging customer conversations and leading effective meetings with diverse stakeholders. The constant learning and access to growth opportunities are what I love about Workday.
The Power of Connection
Workday’s culture thrives on collaboration and connection. It’s more than just a buzzword; it’s a part of our DNA. We’re not just colleagues; we’re a community of supportive and open individuals who genuinely care about building relationships. I’ve experienced this firsthand, forming strong bonds with colleagues across time zones and functional teams. This sense of camaraderie creates a shared purpose and a supportive environment where everyone feels comfortable reaching out and collaborating. Workday also champions mentorship and guidance. Our managers, known as People Leaders, go above and beyond to support our growth and development. My People Leader has been an invaluable mentor, always there to offer encouragement, constructive feedback, and opportunities to grow. This leader-employee relationship has been a cornerstone of my positive experience at Workday. It’s something that sets Workday apart and makes it a special place to work.
My Advice? Jump In!
My experience at Workday has been nothing short of amazing. It’s a place where you can be yourself, build meaningful relationships, and contribute to something impactful. If you’re an early-career professional looking to launch your career, I encourage you to explore opportunities at Workday.
Embrace the collaborative culture and connect with colleagues across teams. You’ll find a community of supportive individuals who are passionate about their work and eager to share their knowledge. Build a strong relationship with your People Leader, who will be your champion and guide you on your career journey. And don’t hesitate to say “yes” to new challenges. Workday is a place where you can step outside your comfort zone, take risks, and grow in ways you never imagined.
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