2018 is a BIG year for me. Not only am I planning my big fat Greek/Lebanese wedding, but I have also started my new role at people2people as the Sydney Manager. BIG title hey? I think so. But what does it actually mean?

On paper, I am now responsible for leading the Sydney head office consisting of 26 recruitment consultants. I have four of our Senior Managers ‘reporting’ through to me and an intimate team of four recruitment consultants with whom I mentor and work closely.

Feeling overwhelmed is an understatement.

The first few weeks of 2018 were different and completely new to me. The unnecessary pressure I placed on myself to learn this new role and all that comes with it overnight, was absolutely ridiculous! It lead me to believe I might not be the right person for the job.

After more than a few moments of panic combined with some soul searching, I found referring back to my core values a very helpful technique in overcoming my new and exciting challenge.

With the above in mind, my clear day to day focus is to lead and support my wider team in their success. We are a high performing office, with low staff turnover and high levels of staff engagement. I am responsible for not only maintaining these levels but also elevating them.

I am now certain and confident that my new role IS for me as my strengths have always included knowing how to get the best out of people. Communication, empowerment, dependability and credibility are values I keep in mind in my operational activities, which have helped me to maintain a clear purpose in my role.

To my fellow recently appointed leaders (or any new starters out there), if you are not aware of your core values I urge you to explore these further. I cannot stress enough the strength you can achieve in your approach by identifying your core values and what is important to you.

All the best in the new roles!