First impression key component of surge hiring event

Overton Brooks VA welcomed 16 applicants during VA’s National Onboarding Surge Event in November. One of the reasons for the success of the event was the extra effort of a VA shuttle bus driver.

Surge created to fill need

The surge event was created to fill VA’s need to hire 52,000 employees per year over the next five years to keep pace with the increased need for care and to maintain a healthy, vibrant workforce.

VA conducted the Onboarding Surge Event nationally to foster a strong, collaborative relationship between HR, hiring managers and employees, as well as reducing the number of selectees waiting to finish pre-employment onboarding requirements.

“Was up to me to set the right tone.”

“This was an awesome event and I’m proud to have been a part of it,” said Paul Jones, engineering service shuttle driver. “I was the first representative from VA the applicants saw. It was up to me to set the right tone for the event.”

Jones’ shift started early and didn’t end until late. His position required not just driving prowess but a knack for customer service and his efforts didn’t go unnoticed.

“Our overall customer service rating was 9.8 out of 10,” said Kimberly Lane, associate medical center director. “We gave firm job offers to seven attendees and nine pending job offers to others. There were many team members such as our Employee Experience Team and Voluntary Services that were critical to enhancing the experience.

“I want to give a special shout out to Paul Jones, who started the experience out with a shuttle ride from the river side parking to the front door. He also provided a little medical center history to boot.”

VA has more events scheduled to make the 52,000-employee quota. If you are interested in a career with the VHA, visit USAJobs.gov.