Nearly 25% of our new colleagues choose a job at Essent based on the enthusiastic stories shared by friends and former colleagues who now work at Essent. In "Thanks New Job," we highlight successful referrals. This time, it’s Maryam Leenheer thanking Orchid Hermsen for her new position as Consultant Learning & Development.How do you know each other?
Orchid: “We have a mutual friend, and that’s how we know each other.”
What are your roles at Essent?
Orchid: “I work in HR in the Learning & Development (L&D) team, focusing on talent management, development, and engagement. Our L&D team works to create an environment where all Essent employees can develop into the best version of themselves.”
Maryam: “I work at Customer Operations as a Consultant Learning & Development. Together with my L&D team, we focus on the professional development of the customer advisors, who represent Essent and Energiedirect. They dedicate themselves every day to helping and advising our customers via phone, chat, and email.”
Orchid, why did you immediately think of Maryam for this vacancy?
Orchid: “Whenever I see a vacancy at Essent related to learning and development, I automatically think: who do I know for this role? The connection with Maryam was quickly made. Through our mutual friend, I heard that Maryam was interested, so we discussed Essent’s culture, the position, and whether it was a good fit. We quickly concluded that the job was perfect for her.”
Maryam, how did Orchid convince you to apply to Essent?
Maryam: “I had been interested in working at Essent for a while and even had a job alert set up. When this position came up, Orchid’s conversation confirmed my positive impression of Essent. I wasn’t actively looking for a new job at the time because I had only been at Alliander for 1.5 years and really enjoyed working in the energy sector. But Orchid’s insights persuaded me to apply, and as I progressed through the interview process, I became even more excited.”
Do you work together often?
Maryam: “We don’t work directly together, even though we’re both in Learning & Development. I work at Customer Operations, and Orchid is in HR. We did have lunch last week, though, and it was great to catch up on how things are going both personally and professionally. We also talked about our field, which we approach from different perspectives.”How are you enjoying your time at Essent, Maryam?Maryam: “One of the first things I noticed is how fun and social it is to work in Brabant! There are so many office get-togethers, and it’s a nice change. Everyone has been incredibly helpful, and I’ve felt warmly welcomed both in my department and beyond. The introduction days also helped me build a network outside my team. I’ve even gone for lunch and walks with two colleagues I met during those days. I’m excited about Essent’s mission, and while there are always areas for improvement, I’m happy about that because I love driving change.”
How did you know about the referral program, Orchid?
Orchid: “It’s impossible to miss when you’re in the same team as our recruiters and recruitment marketers! I hear about it a lot from them, and I see it promoted all over Essent. It’s exciting to see so many new colleagues join us through referrals from other Essent employees.”
Do you have any tips for Maryam about working at Essent?
Orchid: “My advice was to take time at the start to really learn about the organization. Understand what we do, what we stand for, and what we’re aiming for. Then, figure out where you can contribute and make an impact. At Essent, a lot is possible, but for me, the key is to take ownership of your role, your development, and the opportunities you see.”
What are you going to do with your referral bonus, Orchid?
Orchid: “The bonus is already gone, haha! I got married this past May, so it was well spent!”
Use your network!
Join in and refer someone from your network as a new colleague, just like Orchid did. By doing so, you’ll help Essent and earn a nice bonus for yourself!
Visit werkenbijessent.nl/en/campaigns/referral