It is no secret our world continues to be in times of constant change, impacting the personal and professional lives of not only ourselves but also those around us. Career transitions and pivots have become the norm, whether it is for those who find themselves one year or 30 years into their career.
Tricia Dolkas, founder of KickStart Career, is more than familiar with the challenges that come with being a young professional navigating these kinds of changes during uncertain times. She not only graduated from Stanford University in the middle of a recession herself, but also has over 20 years experience as a corporate recruiter with various companies such as IBM, Google, Sears, Blue Jeans Network, and VMWare. Her extensive recruiting experience coupled with her passion for helping young professionals successfully transition into new career territory is what makes her an ideal coach. She also currently serves as President for the Women’s Networking Alliance, Chapter 122 in Los Altos.
It is my honor to highlight Tricia in this month’s “Bay Area Women In Business” profile!
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Can you share a little bit about you and your business?
I am a career coach assisting people in determining the best next steps in their career and how to approach a career transition strategically and efficiently. I work mostly with 2 different groups of people. First, I love helping people starting or early in their career. In this case, I work with families as parents support their children in launching their careers. I also love working with mid-career professionals with a significant career pivot, ex: changing their career to a direction that is more aligned to their values and passions.
What has your journey looked like professionally to get to where you are now?
I was a corporate recruiter for 20 years. I have recruited for positions at all levels of a corporation and within all functions. My industry experience includes the Tech Industry, Pharmaceuticals, Aerospace, Professional Services, Telecom, Agriculture, Financial Services, Retail and Oil & Gas. I also am the poster child of career pivots. During my career I have worked as Data Analyst, Product Manager, IT Manager, Telco Project Manager and a Recruiter.
What do you enjoy about what you do? What are some of the challenges?
Currently in “The Great Resignation” I believe there is a fundamental shift happening in the relationship between professionals and corporations. Professionals are learning to speak their truth and seeing how that brings more personal and professional satisfaction. What I REALLY enjoy about my work is being a catalyst for “The Great Resignation”. I LOVE teaching people techniques for increased confidence in their career direction, more effective job searches and to own their power as a capable candidate for a company. I am THRILLED when I see my clients more grounded in their self-worth and their ability to make meaningful changes in the world.
One challenge is that my work is a partnership that depends on a willing client. My method is effective, but sometimes people aren’t willing to follow the guidance or to try new techniques. Ultimately, I can’t apply for job openings or initiate a professional networking relationship, only my client can take these actions. Success depends on their commitment to action.
Knowing what you know now about your career, what would you tell your 18 year old self?
Don’t be afraid of career transitions that allow you to grow professionally and to contribute to society in ways that are meaningful to you. And don’t be afraid to ask anyone for support in reaching your goals.
Who inspires you and why?
My father. He was a business owner and restauranteur in Southern California. He believed that a business will succeed only if management takes care of the employees. So in the 1970s, he offered full benefits to all the staff, even the people bussing dishes. He also offered profit-sharing to the management team. Both of these actions were unprecedented in the restaurant business and resulted in a very successful business and a group of very loyal and hardworking employees.
A fun or surprising fact about yourself?
I started snow skiing when I was 4 years old and think I skied better then than I do now.
If you could meet anyone in history (living or not), who would it be and why?
Eleanor Roosevelt. She was a strong woman who took action on her principles and worked to change the role of women in business and society.