Rodrick Barnes: Member Spotlight (November 2018)
November 1, 2018Name: Nyla Whalum
Membership Level: Professional Member
Title and Company: Talent Acquisition Partner, CIOX Health
Education/Certifications: PHR certified, Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) English Language and Literature, Spelman College
Why did you choose HR and how long have you been in the HR field?
As superficial as it may sound, Human Resources truly chose me! Like many college students, when I graduated from Spelman College in 2016, I had no idea what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. All I knew is that I wanted to work with and help people. Late in 2017, I saw an opening for a HR Coordinator/Recruiter role for a smaller company that was close to my home; I decided to take a risk and test out some new waters. With no surprise, I loved working in the HR space; I finally had the opportunity to help and have a positive impact. I have gladly been working in the HR field for 3 years!
Three words that describe me?
- Communicative
- Adaptable
- Inquisitive
What advice would you give a new HR professional?
Make sure to take advantage of opportunities presented to you; any HR related projects are always a boost for your resume. Also make sure to join HR related groups (NAAAHR, SHRM, ATD etc). NAAAHR has been a great asset for me in navigating where I want to take my career. I’ve also had the opportunity to establish great relationships with knowledgeable HR professionals; keep in mind that your next opportunity may not be determined by what you know, but by who you know.
Why is it important to network with your NAAAHR peers?
Networking and developing relationships with others can have a vast impact on your professional career; it’s truly an opportunity to give and receive information from like-minded individuals. Networking with NAAAHR had a great impact on my job search; I was able to connect with members that were able to introduce me to various opportunities. *
“Do not go where the path may lead; go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson.
Meet Nyla and other like-minded professionals in Human Resources and other fields by joining NAAAHR-ATL and attending our events. Be sure to also check out our calendar of upcoming events here.
WE LOOK FORWARD TO GREETING YOU!!!