When I moved from Venezuela to the U.S. in 2001 I never dreamed that 8 years later I would be conducting speaking engagements all over the country. My primary concern when I arrived was my ability to express myself in English and to do things like order food, ask for directions, or simply ask for a different size clothing when shopping.
I only spoke a few words so I knew the first thing I needed to do was to enroll in English classes. A requirement to start taking college classes was to pass the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFEL). This was one of the most challenging times in my life. The TOEFEL test measured my ability as a non-native speaker to communicate in English in college. After one year of intense English classes I passed it and 4 years later I graduated from college. Finally, I was no longer concerned about communicating simple everyday life situations. It just happened as the language became a part of me.
After college, the next step was to start my professional career. I was looking for a company where my experience and background would be valued and where I could have the opportunity for professional growth. When I was presented the opportunity to become an Employment Specialist with Sodexo, I didn't hesitate to apply. After moving through each stage of the hiring process, I got hired! As member of Sodexo's Talent Acquisition Team, I learned more about the company, baked cupcakes for a fundraiser event with the network group African American Leadership Forum (AALF), volunteered to plan employee activities with the HR department, and collaborated and won with my coworkers the Warrior Recruiter Contest in 2008! The Warrior Recruiter Contest is a contest where members of the Talent Acquisition Team submit their best practices for review and voting by our coworkers. I teamed with my fellow Employment Specialist to produce a video where we explained more about our hiring process from our point of view. We had a great time!
Who could forget, “Hello Recruiter Friend” or “David RU Surehewantsthejob?”
Seven months ago I had the great opportunity to join a new division of Sodexo called Motivation Solutions. As a Territory Development Representative, I work with Sodexo managers to build synergies and present our “Better Day” solutions to Sodexo clients. Since joining I have both traveled in the U.S and conducted webinars to educate about Motivation Solutions which includes: Incentive Solution Consulting and Program Development, Program Management Technology and Customized Communications, and Incentive Gift Cards and Corporate Gifts. The Esteem Pass and Vivabox are the perfect gifts for every day, every occasion, and everyone. These new services and products are available to help companies throughout the U.S build commitment, engagement and employee loyalty. You can read more about Sodexo Motivation Solutions products and services here.
I'm looking forward to new challenges and continuing my professional growth with Sodexo. This month I am not only proud of my heritage I am also proud to be celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month at Sodexo. Check out our poll of the week, "Do you know the ways Sodexo helps its employees recognize Hispanic Heritage Month?" on our "I am Sodexo" web site here.
Does your company celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month?
Belen DeLuca joined Sodexo in February, 2008. In her current position with Motivation Solutions she works to serve Sodexo’s internal recognition and reward needs. Additionally, she works with Sodexo’s leaders to identify and understand potential opportunities for Motivation Solutions to add value to Sodexo clients. Belen also leads the Esteem Pass Fundraiser Program with a focus on helping organizations raise funds and team spirit. Feel free to connect with Belen directly at Belen.Deluca@sodexo.com or calling by calling her at 301-987-4796.
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