My main role right now is leading the new hire orientations... a task I really enjoy. It's very much like being in the classroom again.. only I'm not a substitute... it's my class. :) I have a lengthy guide (lesson plan) to follow, and I am slowly making it my own as I get more comfortable and familiar with the material contained within. Though I am still learning how to process all the paperwork that goes along with these orientations, I very much enjoy working and interacting with our new hires.. each group brings something new to the table.
I've also been helping schedule interviews as well as inputting data into our antiquated computer systems. Sadly, my numerous other job functions and training have taken a back seat to our mass hiring project.. but this is teaching me at least one aspect of my job in great detail.
Unfortunately, with mass hiring comes mass chaos. Paperwork is every where.. people just plopping things on my desk... asking random questions as if personnel knows everything about everything all the time... and of course, we always end up with too many cooks in the kitchen as they say. Everyone wants to be the boss, but not many want to roll up their sleeves and get the job done. I have been impressed and inspired by a core group of co-workers who have been diligently working to make this process work and are ALWAYS there to lend me a hand and help answer my questions.
It's now beginning to sink in that this is my new job (rather than just a temporary thing) - especially as I begin to forge a new routine to follow. For me routine is very important as I'm a creature of habit.
Despite still working in a retail setting, I no longer feel like a store employee.. I feel more like an office worker, and it's a very positive transition. Though it certainly has it's share of stresses.. especially now.. I find the work more rewarding and have a greater sense of accomplishment at the end of the day. Not dealing with the customers is also a great blessing and a welcomed change.. though I am quickly learning that working closely with management is not always an "easier" alternative. hahaha!Though this is not my dream job, I am thankful for a positive step forward (especially now being full time permanently) and for the chance to use my skills as a teacher on a regular basis. The skills I am now learning from this experience will also transfer very well into the classroom should I ever be fortunate enough to land that ever illusive full time teaching position.
Even baby steps forward are steps in the right direction. Now if you'll excuse me, I need to crash from utter paperwork exhaustion.
