Written by: Bethany B., Group Talent Acquisition Manager
The world looks a lot different than it did a year ago, and we are all still learning to adapt. One thing that has remained true at Enterprise? Our employees are incredibly resilient when faced with challenges. As a Talent Acquisition Manager at Enterprise, I’m often asked by candidates what’s different about the candidate and/or employee experience because of the pandemic. So I asked Ashley S., an Assistant Branch Manager in Nampa, Idaho, what those changes have looked and felt like for her over the past year, and what advice she would give to someone starting at Enterprise today.
What does your day-to-day look like now? How has it changed?
My day-to-day tasks have pretty much remained the same. We are providing the same excellent service to our customers and helping them get where they need to go. While keeping our vehicles clean and well-maintained has always been a priority, one thing that has changed is the addition of enhanced cleaning and safety standards, which we implement both for ourselves and our teammates, and for our customers. We require masks in our branches, along with constant cleaning of highly touched surfaces, and we follow the Complete Clean Pledge.
How have you supported your teammates and vice versa? Does teamwork look different now than it did before?
My team has been my constant support system through the entire pandemic, both on and off the clock. The extra downtime we experienced led to deeper conversations and stronger friendships. Supporting each other through the constant changes in the workplace, our community and our personal lives has really strengthened our bond as a team – both at the branch level and across our region here in Idaho. It’s less about individual branches being successful and more about how we can be of service to every customer in the area.
What has been the biggest challenge during this time? How did you overcome it? Who helped?
The toughest challenge was the first six months of the pandemic. I had passed the written exam required to become an Assistant Manager only weeks before the full shutdown, and I was eager to move up. All that excitement came to a halt when branches started temporarily consolidating and frequent renters were no longer coming in.
My team was there though it all. I relied on my managers, teammates and friends to support me and help me prepare for the Assistant Manager interviews so I would be ready the second they opened. It took some time, but eventually I had my shot at the promotion. Now, I am the Assistant Manager of the largest neighborhood location in our area.
What hasn’t changed about working at Enterprise in the past year?
We may have implemented new practices, but we are still striving to serve every customer with the utmost respect and service, while upholding our core values – like making sure we are a fun and friendly place where teamwork rules.
What’s different now for candidates and new employees at Enterprise?
One of the things that is new to Enterprise is a virtual interview process, depending on location. When I first interviewed, I got to meet the team on site and spent time watching and learning how the branch operated. Now, depending on the location where you’re interviewing, today’s candidates are learning most of that information without having to set foot in the branch.
What advice would you give to someone wanting to start their career at Enterprise during this time?
Get ready to hit the ground running! We run a fast-paced business and you’re going to learn a lot in your first few weeks and months. Be ready to learn, and be eager for what lies ahead. You may make some mistakes along the way, but you’ll learn valuable lessons from them – and you will always have support and mentorship from upper leadership.
What tips would you share with someone looking to grow their career or get to the next level during this time?
My biggest piece of advice is to be patient. Waiting is hard – trust me, I know. I was waiting for an Assistant Manager spot to become available, and it did. Eventually the right opportunities will present themselves and they will be yours to take. Make sure you have a strong team around you to support and encourage you, even if doubt sets in and you can’t always see the next step. Patience and teamwork will help you make it through.