How I found my voice in a professional world

She was ready to learn the ins and outs of human resources in the hospitality world, but to her surprise found herself right in the middle of an incredible agenda change for the Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group. The Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group is working towards bringing gender balance to leadership in the hospitality world and Shreya has been given the opportunity to play a role in sharing this powerful message alongside the president and CEO of the company.

 

“This internship has truly been the best professional experience of my life!”

 

How has this internship helped shape your professional approach?
This is the first role where I have ever felt truly empowered as an employee. I feel that my opinion is valued and I am trusted to complete my job duties. At Rezidor, the empowerment comes from the top and as a team we support each other every step of the way. This has been amazing to be a part of and will continue to seek this in my future.

How have you been inspired for your future by this internship?
As an Indian, I come from a very masculine culture and I have always been interested in gender issues.

 

“My experience at the Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group has helped show me the importance of gender equality in the workplace on an international level and has sparked a strong passion in me to continue to support this work.”

 

What do you hope for your future?
My hope is to continue to gain international professional experiences and grow in seniority in my field. I hope to one day return to India, with the experiences and tools that will help make a real difference in my home country when it comes to gender equality.

What was the best advice you were given by your Manager?
I shared with my manager that I was nervous to give a presentation in front of hundreds of people. In particular the fear of puking or fainting in front of a large crowd was on my mind! My manager told me that the worst thing that could happen is that my embarrassment might go viral on YouTube for 2 weeks but no matter what the team had my back and was there to help me through it. This immediately made me feel better.

How did you get the internship with the Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group?
I approached the company at the International Recruitment Forum admitting to them that I did not know much about their brand. After learning that the group represented brands that I grew up with including Radisson Blu I shared my keen interest. I decided to leave my CV with them and they contacted me 2 weeks later for an interview. 7 interviews later they offered me the position of Corporate Trainee with the Human Resources department in Brussels, Belgium.

How has your education at SHMS changed you?
Studying at SHMS has completely opened me up.

 

“If I didn’t have this study experience in Switzerland, I would probably still be timid and too scared to speak up and voice my opinion. My education has given me the confidence to not hold my opinions back. This is thanks to my very encouraging teachers and the environment in Switzerland.”

 

How has your education supported professional opportunities for you?
The International Recruitment Forum is one of the most incredible opportunities that Swiss Education Group gives us. Imagine one building with all of the big hospitality brands together. It’s like casting a line into a fish tank and coming out with a great surprise.