Transitioning from Employee Training to Employee Engagement

Why did you decide to join isolved?

“It was the first time during my job search that I saw a company proactively investing in employee development as well as diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEI&B) initiatives,” said Stipanovich. “I was naturally drawn to the role, and really excited for the opportunity to join an organization that was investing in its people.”

Stipanovich began his new role working under the training and marketing departments, but moved to the human resources (HR) department when isolved’s Chief People Officer Amy Mosher joined the organization. Within a year he was promoted to isolved’s Director of Employee Engagement.

“Transitioning to HR made a lot of sense because it allowed me to continue my career progression while receiving mentorship from Amy Mosher. My goals have always been to help others through development and education, as well as to foster an inclusive work environment. Amy and I were aligned on those goals, and once we started collaborating I knew that I really wanted to create an engagement team.”

Did you always want a career in HR?

“I initially wanted to be a teacher when I started college. Not only do I love teaching, but I enjoy coaching football and baseball at the high school level,” said Stipanovich. “My passion for teaching helped to provide a smooth transition to the corporate world and working with adult learners. Then I ended up finding my real passion is developing people and making sure their voices are heard.”Stipanovich notes that he’s a firm believer that there is always something to learn with every new opportunity in life, and this was especially true when taking on an employee engagement role within the HR space.“One of the best things I’ve been able to do is take DEI&B courses,” said Stipanovich. “The support and career development I have received from isolved has been incredible. It has allowed me to grow and adapt, not only for myself but for the organization.”

How would you describe isolved’s culture?

“isolved feels like a small company even though it’s in a growth state, which is something that is very unique. Sometimes employees feel like their opinions don’t matter within a large organization, but isolved truly cares and values what people say.”Stipanovich notes that his team focuses on making culture improvements by leveraging feedback from engagement surveys. Once the surveys are completed, his team takes the top items from responses and creates action plans to address the feedback.“We send out surveys because we genuinely want to put people first,” said Stipanovich. “HR is focused on people. The goal for our department is for everyone to feel comfortable bringing their true, authentic self to work every day. I think we have done that and I’m very proud of it."

Stipanovich also says he has made a lot of connections during his time at isolved – many of these connections have become mentors who want to see him succeed.

Can you describe the mentorship you’ve received at isolved?“

Amy Mosher has been an amazing mentor. She is one of the most genuine people I’ve ever met,” said Stipanovich. “Not only has she given me educational support, but she’s also given me a safe space to talk and listen.”Stipanovich also recognized several other mentors, including isolved’s Vice President of Product Management and Training Kelli Rico and Vice President of Marketing Lina Tonk.“I can’t thank Kelli enough for her mentorship. She was my first manager when I started at isolved, and we still work together a lot,” said Stipanovich.

“Lina has also made a big impression because she goes out of her way to send recognition and provide genuine feedback.”Additionally, Stipanovich mentions isolved’s Chief Marketing and Strategy Officer James Norwood. Through isolved’s Executive Mentorship Program, Stipanovich and Norwood connect regularly to discuss professional and personal goals.“I’ve just kicked off my mentorship program with James and my experience has been incredible so far. The conversations have been so personable, and I’m really looking forward to continuing to learn from him through the program.”

What are you looking forward to as you continue your career with isolved?

“I’m focused on creating a space where people can continue to develop,” said Stipanovich. “Development is a huge opportunity for everyone. As we continue to learn and grow, more people will feel empowered to bring their true identity to work because they feel heard and valued.”

Stipanovich says that his team has many initiatives on their roadmap for the coming year. And while these initiatives will certainly take a lot of hard work, that doesn’t mean there is a lack of “fun” being had.

Can you share one of your favorite work stories?

“My favorite story actually happened just a few months ago at isolved Connect 2021,” said Stipanovich. “We launched the isolved People Heroes customer advocacy program, but the costume for our mascot didn’t show up until the last day. We no longer had an actor booked to wear the costume, so I stepped in and did it for the team.”Stipanovich notes that although he had no experience being a mascot, he wanted to help because he knows his colleagues would do the same for him. His dedication didn’t go unnoticed, as he was recognized with the CEO Impact award during isolved’s quarterly All-Hands Meeting.

What advice would you give someone following a similar career journey as you?

“Be authentic. You will learn and grow so much just by being your true self,” said Stipanovich. “Also make sure to ask a lot of questions. I ask questions all the time and isolved has created a space where that is okay. And lastly, be appreciative of people and what they are trying to do for you.”