You can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future. You have to trust in something - your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever. This approach has never let me down, and it has made all the difference in my life. - Steve Jobs
Today, someone asked me what DHD stands for, which got me reflecting on my journey before I became an entrepreneur.
Who was I, and what was I doing before September 2019?
I thought about sharing my wild ride of starting a recruiting agency, opening a Korean restaurant in NYC, and building recruiting software. While these ventures might seem different, they’re all connected in some interesting ways.
Looking back, I aspired to become a professor, social researcher, or an academic. I moved from one school to another like a ghost from University of Oregon Brown University and Korea University.
Then about 10 years ago, I transitioned into a recruiting role while maintaining a strong interest in studying social and cultural cognition. As a Korean immigrant woman in the recruiting industry, my journey has been shaped by the desire to create a positive impact and contribute to the diverse fabric of our communities. I believe that representation matters, and as someone who has navigated the challenges of starting anew in a different country, I’m now committed to advocating for inclusivity and civility in the workplace. By fostering connections between employers and underrepresented candidates, I hope to empower others to reach their full potential whenever I can.
So I joined The Adecco Group, and to this day I believe Adecco is one of the greatest places to work. I sometimes wonder how my life could have panned out differently if I had not moved to New Jersey and stayed at Adecco. If you are looking for a job as a recruiter, happy to make an intro.
This recruiter sat in the "Intro to Human Rights and Social Justice" classroom at Fordham Graduate School of Social Service, then visited United Nations and pitched her social impact startup at Fordham Foundry.
And representation does matter. Somehow, as I look back, it feels like the stars have aligned. Each experience, challenge, and opportunity has played a crucial role in shaping my journey.
DHD from DHD Consulting stands for Dr. Holly Diamond and her ambitious aspiration to create a positive workplace around the world.
As a startup founder, my career trajectory has amplified on creating a space where everyone can thrive. United Nations Global Compact's SDG Goal 8 highlights the importance of decent work and economic growth (for all).
WorkOnward (Techstars '23) Your Job, on the Map.
Happy 5th anniversary, DHD!
Grow & Believe 🌱🌱🌱
- Holly