HR Maverick
Nicole Bergen
Nicole started her journey in Human Resources at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign by completing both a bachelor's degree in Organizational Communication and a master's degree in Human Resources and Industrial Relations. During her progression toward her master's degree, Nicole interned for Honeywell/ADI in New York. Upon her graduation she started a career has a Human Resources Generalist for Nestlé USA in Bakersfield, California. She worked there for over 2 years then went on to work for Unilever in Chicago as an Assistant HR Business Partner. She has between 4-5 years of HR experience in accompaniment to her degrees and PHR certification. Nicole has a wide range of knowledge and experience in all major facets of HR.
What words of advice and encouragement would you give to someone just starting out in HR?
I would encourage all new HR professionals to always listen to your employees at every level of the organization. Every person in your business has a voice and something to say. It is important to create a work environment that makes your employees not only feel comfortable and safe but also heard. I would also advise to not let yourself get too stressed about or wrapped up in the negative that comes your way. Never forget the positive impact you are trying to make and most individuals in your organization will see and appreciate that!
HR Maverick
Nicole Bergen
Nicole started her journey in Human Resources at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign by completing both a bachelor's degree in Organizational Communication and a master's degree in Human Resources and Industrial Relations. During her progression toward her master's degree, Nicole interned for Honeywell/ADI in New York. Upon her graduation she started a career has a Human Resources Generalist for Nestlé USA in Bakersfield, California. She worked there for over 2 years then went on to work for Unilever in Chicago as an Assistant HR Business Partner. She has between 4-5 years of HR experience in accompaniment to her degrees and PHR certification. Nicole has a wide range of knowledge and experience in all major facets of HR.
What words of advice and encouragement would you give to someone just starting out in HR?
I would encourage all new HR professionals to always listen to your employees at every level of the organization. Every person in your business has a voice and something to say. It is important to create a work environment that makes your employees not only feel comfortable and safe but also heard. I would also advise to not let yourself get too stressed about or wrapped up in the negative that comes your way. Never forget the positive impact you are trying to make and most individuals in your organization will see and appreciate that!
