Every so often, we feature one of our consultants and highlight their story to give you a behind-the-scenes glimpse into life at Smart HR. As always, if you’re looking for a flexible HR career that’s adaptable to wherever you are in your professional life, contact us today. Without further ado, please meet this month’s spotlight consultant, Julia Reed.
Name: Julia Reed
Years with Smart HR: 8 months
Professional Background in One Sentence: I’m a SPHR and SHRM-SCP certified consultant with 20+ years in corporate HR for both large and small organizations.
Why did you make the move to Smart HR?
After over a decade at a large organization, I missed the connections and intimacy I experienced at smaller organizations earlier in my career. In addition, I appreciated how the team of experts at Smart HR work together to ensure our clients receive unrivaled cost-effective solutions.
Five years ago, did you think you’d be doing what you’re doing now?
I planned to remain in HR, but I did not expect to find an HR company with an entrepreneurial spirit that allows its consultants to develop unique and effective solutions for each client.
What’s a typical day like for you?
I am naturally an early riser and love having an hour to focus on the news, our dog, a little coffee, and outlining my day. Although Smart HR’s model allows us to work from home several times a week, I prefer to work on location as much as possible. I spend anywhere from 3 to 8+ hours at a client site depending on the needs of the day and priorities at hand. On shorter work days, I generally knock out errands and whenever possible, go to yoga and find time to read. I close out the day with dinner with my husband and as it gets warmer, a walk around our neighborhood in Old Town.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
Listening to employees and seeing communication improve as overall HR practices are refined is very rewarding.
What about the Smart HR model really appeals to you?
I love the opportunity to work for several different clients. Every company is remarkable and having the ability to support several at a time is both fascinating and invigorating.
If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to yourself in college?
Focus on your strengths, accept your weaknesses, and always choose to work at companies that allow you to continue to learn and grow.
