The performance of any organization is unquestionably linked to its ability to tap into the “human energy” encapsulated in the talents, approach, and potential of every team member. This is the belief of today’s guest, Julie Flowers, mentor, coach, sought-after speaker, and HR Director, HR Talent Development Initiatives at Chevron. In this episode, Julie shares some pearls of wisdom from her 26 years with Chevron and offers insight into how the technology, high standards, and ethics at Chevron appeal to Gen Z candidates, how talent development boosts morale and improves company culture, and why she believes that HR is the human energy in progress that leads to not only business success but individual success too.
Key Points From This Episode:
An overview of Julie’s career journey and how it led her to Chevron in 1998.
Branding non-renewable energy for the younger generations.
Lessons from Julie’s transition from talent acquisition to talent development.
What it looks like to reinvent HR every few years (and why it’s so important).
The value of continuous upskilling in consulting, project management, and more.
Reasons that we should view AI as an enabling tool rather than a skill.
Innovative ways that Chevron uses AI for external recruiting.
Personal development for talent professionals: how to grow in every role.
The importance of fostering a curiosity mindset.
Insight into Chevron’s strong HR culture and how Julie nurtures it.
The relationship between long-term development and short-term incentives.
Tips for leaders, employees, and organizations to encourage continuous growth.
Why storytelling is such a critical skill for talent professionals.
Humbling advice for those who want to up-level their recruitment career.
Quotes:
“We’re focused on creating an [HR environment at Chevron] where the business recognizes us as an agile force, capable of adapting – where we need to for this ever-changing business that we’re in – and delivering amazing customer experience.” — Julie Flowers [0:08:51]
“If people are paying attention, you grow in every role you have. Generally, the roles that you’ve had prepare you for the next role, you just don’t know it’s happened.” — Julie Flowers [0:17:01]
“As a leader, I need to [encourage, support, and reward]. As an employee, I’ve got to want to learn and grow. As a company, I’ve got to show that we’re building that type of culture. [Continuous development] takes all three of those things.” — Julie Flowers [0:27:10]
“Sometimes, when you come to the business with something HR, it might not be met with open arms. We have to be able to tell a story so they understand the value and impact it’s going to have.” — Julie Flowers [0:33:56]
“We don’t learn most from our successes. We learn from when we don’t do something right, when we fail.” — Julie Flowers [0:35:28]
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
