A Journey in Human Resources and Employer Branding: From Building Programs to Shaping Culture

Looking back on my career in #HumanResources (HR) and #EmployerBranding, I find myself amazed at the journey that has brought me to where I am today. With a degree in Sociology from Boğaziçi University , I set out on a path that has been both fulfilling and challenging.

One of the unforgettable moments in my career was the chance to create and run the "FLY Talent Program" and "Summer Internship Program" at SunExpress. These programs weren't just about filling job positions but finding talent and providing valuable experiences for interns and new graduates. Thanks to these great programs, I met great people, İrem Mete , Şeyma Gül C. , Çağda Barış Benlier , Saadet Nur Skrypnyk , Başak Hiçyılmaz , Celil Sözer , Yahya Kemal Sert , and so on. From designing the programs to conducting interviews, which were my first interview experience, each step taught me something new. Seeing the interns grow and develop affirmed my belief in investing in talent.

But attracting talent is only half of my work; keeping it is just as crucial. That's why we've spent much time and effort promoting SunExpress as an employer of choice with Emir Aksoy . Managing our #LinkedIn account and crafting recruitment materials have played a big part in shaping our employer brand. By showcasing our company culture, values, and opportunities for growth, we've managed to attract a diverse pool of candidates who share our vision. Thanks to Nejla Uzman and Cansu Başer , we are creating great content together!

Yet, attracting and retaining talent isn't just about the recruitment process. It's also about creating a work environment where employees feel engaged, supported, and valued. That's why we've made employee engagement a priority. Whether organizing team-building events, arranging networking opportunities, or running employee recognition programs, fostering a positive work culture has been at the forefront of my efforts. Thanks to Selman Dirlik , it was impossible to create great events without him!

Staying up-to-date with industry trends and best practices has also been crucial. Researching emerging trends and trying out new strategies has helped us stay competitive. Working closely with other departments, such as marketing, communications, and external stakeholders, has been key in developing a unified employer branding strategy that resonates with our target audience. Every meeting we conducted outside of the company was mindblowing and educative.

One of the projects I'm particularly proud of is my involvement in shaping the SunExpress Employee Value Proposition (EVP). Creating a compelling EVP has been vital in attracting and retaining top talent, as well as shaping our company culture. It's not just about perks and benefits; it's about articulating what makes SunExpress a special workplace. Stay tuned for the upcoming EVP launch!

In addition to my HR duties, I've had the opportunity to work in a part-time PMO Department. This experience has not only improved my project management skills, but has also given me valuable insights into working across different departments and managing stakeholders. Thanks again, Can Selçuk , for believing and trusting me with this project.

I'm currently trying to develop myself to learn German (starting A2 this month) and dive into SQL. These pursuits not only enhance my skill set but also open up new opportunities for professional growth. Furthermore, I'm eagerly looking forward to attending career events in both Ankara and Istanbul, where I hope to expand my network and gain insights into industry trends.

Looking ahead, I'm excited about the HR and Employer Branding opportunities. Whether furthering my education or exploring new areas within the field, I'm eager to continue making a positive impact and helping organizations succeed.

In conclusion, my HR and employer branding journey has been marked by growth, learning, and meaningful connections. I'm grateful for the experiences that have shaped me professionally and look forward to the adventures ahead.

#lifeatsunexpress