Beginning a new job with a new company stirs many emotions. New employees are generally excited about the opportunity, hopeful for career progression and anxious to become engaged in the company’s culture. Sodexo realizes the importance of a good foundation early on in one’s career. Its Come Alive with Sodexo Program strives to ensure new employees are equipped for success from day one. The program lasts a full year with eLearning and classroom-based courses to help new Sodexo managers with everything from company history to health & safety and beyond. Innovative and energizing, Come Alive with Sodexo offers just-in-time training so that all new managers and other professionals can flourish and grow throughout their first year of employment.

In May, Sodexo University will be awarded the Excellence in Practice Citation by the American Society for Training and Development (ASTD) for the support provided to new managers. ASTD is the world’s largest association dedicated to workplace learning and performance professionals. The Come Alive with Sodexo program will receive a citation for meeting a demonstrated need, its strong evaluation plans, and its design. "What sets this program apart from other orientation programs is our focus on developing these new employees into leaders," says Mary Beth Andres, Director, Training and Development. "They learn management strategies and where we are headed as a company beyond the technical training. Additionally, they are exposed early on to our executive leaders and other managers who may serve as mentors throughout their career with Sodexo."

Come Alive with Sodexo was launched in January of 2009 and has consistently stayed within 5% (mostly above) of the benchmarks that measure all corporate universities. "We are committed to taking care of every life cycle of their [employee] career and taking care of them as future leaders," says Megan Ellis, Senior Director, Sodexo University. "It’s not just about putting a check in a box."

Sodexo supports and encourages its employees to shape their own future and grow with the company. The company cares about its employees in the same manner it cares about its clients and strives to provide each and every employee with a wide range of professional and personal opportunities to improve the quality of their daily life.

To find out how you can "Come Alive" with Sodexo, visit www.sodexousa.com or Network with us here.