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What were your responsibilities as a junior?
Initially, as a junior, I was responsible for small parts within a project. This included tasks such as conducting literature research or analysing quantitative data (e.g. portfolio or administrative data). I always had guidance from more experienced colleagues. Over time working at Dialogic, I was given more responsibilities. For example, conducting interviews, being in charge of writing a chapter in a report, and conducting statistical analyses on my own. Dialogic provides the opportunity to take on more responsibilities and encourages it.
How did the transition to mid-level go, what new responsibilities did you have?
The transition from junior to mid-level was challenging and exciting at the start. As a mid-level employee, I had to act as a project manager in smaller projects, making me responsible for the end result and the primary contact for the client. This was something I needed to get used to initially. It's helpful that at Dialogic, you receive guidance from your colleagues and can always ask them for help. After leading several projects as a project manager, I quickly got used to it, and managing projects became easier (though not always).
In addition to project management, as a mid-level employee, I also had more responsibility in acquiring new projects. Acquiring new projects can be done in various ways: from meeting potential clients to attending conferences and networking events, and writing proposals. Personally, I preferred (and still do) to be involved in proposal writing.
How did the transition to senior role go?
For me, personally, the transition from mid-level to senior was easier than from junior to mid-level. As a senior, I do largely the same work as a mid-level employee but on a larger scale. The projects I lead now are significantly bigger (but I still lead smaller projects) and there is an expectation for me to bring in more new projects.
During my time at Dialogic, I have also developed certain expertise, making colleagues and clients increasingly rely on my capabilities. In my case, this involves projects related to the education-labour market connection, evaluations of tax schemes, and using CBS microdata. I chose to specialise in various areas as I enjoy the diversity in my work.
What kind of education/training courses have you been able to undertake?
At Dialogic, I have been given every opportunity to develop myself. I can choose a method that suits me best. Personally, I opted to take an econometrics course to enhance my quantitative skills. Other colleagues chose to attend courses in project management. Regarding attending conferences, I have the freedom to choose where to go. For instance, in late 2023, I attended the Human Capital Festival in Dordrecht, where I provided an explanation with a client about one of our projects related to the education-labour market connection.
