I came to the Department of Justice through the Federal Government’s Human Resource Advisor Recruitment initiative. In the nearly two and a half years that I have been lucky enough to work for the Department, I have advanced two levels and have, I would like to think, earned the respect and admiration of both co-workers and clients.
I have enjoyed my time at the Department because of the people I work with and for. All of the other factors that motivate me in my job – stimulating work, development opportunities, and positive work environment – would not be possible without the people around me.
I have seldom seen employees in my profession at other departments given the responsibilities I was given early on. By the end of my first year, I was having direct contact with clients and being responsible for staffing files from start to finish. At this point, I can say that if you have a Senior Counsel position to be staffed, then I am your guy.
Though I deserve some credit for what I have achieved, none of it would have been possible without the resources (human and financial) that were invested in me. I was able to take the courses most critical to my development while being encouraged and provided guidance along the way. I am also quite fortunate to have had a mentor who helped to mould me into the Advisor I am today. My mentor has provided me with the advice and guidance to succeed not only in my career with the government, but also in life.
Our group comprises five people, and though some of the faces have changed, the work environment has remained extremely positive through an emphasis on work-life balance. Though the pace can be hectic, the stress levels are never too high.
At one point, my manager asked me:
“How do I keep you here?”My response was:“Keep it interesting, and when I deserve the opportunity for advancement, please provide it.”So, after two years I am still here, and I intend to be for the foreseeable future.