1.12 Soo L, Talent Acquisition Partner

I don’t want any one of my candidates to feel bad about themselves…I really root for everyone and if they’re open to feedback, I’m willing to share feedback…

– Soo’s empathetic approach to working with potential candidates, especially in this difficult and competitive job market

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Listen to the Work From Home Forever Podcast

Meet Soo, Talent Acquisition Partner

In this episode, we sit down with Soo, a remote worker and Talent Acquisition Partner who shares her experiences and insights on embracing remote work, maintaining a positive mindset, and fostering productivity in a virtual environment. Soo’s journey begins with a heartwarming tale of her international COVID puppy and the unique challenges she faced in bringing her furry friend from South Korea to Los Angeles.

Episode Highlights:

• International COVID Puppy: Soo’s decision to work from home was largely influenced by her beloved dog. When her sister in Korea found a mixed-breed puppy in need of a home, Soo eagerly opened her doors. While Soo traveled from Salt Lake City, her furry companion embarked on a solo journey from South Korea to Los Angeles, creating an unbreakable bond.
• Missing In-Person Interactions: Soo shares her perspective on the value of in-person interactions in an office setting. She discusses the benefits of having a designated workspace and the challenges of having work constantly in your face when working remotely.
• The Changing Dynamics of Work: Soo reflects on the significant shifts in the world of work over the past 12-18 months, from the emergence of The Great Resignation to the present day. She highlights the shift in power from candidates to organizations and discusses its implications.
• Empathy for Layoffs: Soo empathizes with employees affected by layoffs, acknowledging the profound impact these events have on individuals and their families. She draws parallels between layoffs and traumatic experiences, emphasizing the need for compassion and support during such challenging times.
• Traits of Successful Remote Workers: Soo explores the essential qualities that contribute to remote workers’ success. She emphasizes the importance of giving people the benefit of the doubt in digital communication, promoting grace and assuming positive intentions. Soo also encourages holding team members accountable through open and frank discussions, ensuring commitments are met. Finally, she highlights the entrepreneurial mindset of individuals who take pride in their work, showcasing their dedication and positive interactions with others.
• The Aspiring Comedian: Soo reveals her aspiration to pursue comedy and how she keeps that passion alive. Although it may not be the primary focus of her current job, she maintains her comedic aspirations and uses her LinkedIn headline as a constant reminder to explore this path further.
• Focusing on Positivity: Soo shares her experience of finding humor and positivity in her work, contrary to the stereotype of comedians highlighting the negative aspects of people and situations. She expresses empathy and respect for the individuals she connects with, emphasizing the potential and positive qualities she encounters.
• Remote Work for Inclusion: Soo discusses the significance of remote work for individuals with diverse needs, such as single parents, persons with disabilities, and those facing extenuating circumstances. Remote work provides an opportunity for greater inclusion and accessibility, allowing individuals to thrive despite challenges.
• The Dog’s Signal: Soo’s dog plays a unique role in her remote work routine. Around the late afternoon, her furry companion gets antsy and signals that it’s time for a break. Soo takes this as a cue to call it a work day, tending to her pet’s needs. This ritual of closing her laptop and physically leaving her workspace has become her new version of a traditional commute home.
• Empowering the Remote Worker: Soo delves into the responsibilities that fall on remote workers. She emphasizes the power individuals have to drive their careers, projects, and teams.

Connect with Soo:

• 🌐 LinkedIn: please check out Soo’s LinkedIn page here

Thanks for listening to our show!

Thank you again for listening to the ⁠Work From Home Forever⁠ podcast. We are taking a break during the summer and will be back with new episodes in Season Two by the end of August.

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Q & A with Soo

Why did you want to Work From Home Forever?

• Because of my dog!

How long have you been Working From Home, Forever?

• About 2.5 years

What trade offs, if any, did you make in order to Work From Home Forever?

• Can’t think of anything.

How do you manage work/life balance Working From Home, Forever?

• Trying to leave the desk once my work is done.

What’s your best advice to others who want to Work From Home Forever?

• Now you’re your own manager. Be a good supervisor.

What are your three must-haves to Work From Home, Forever?

• Comfortable clothes

S3 E6 Founding Virtual Not Distant: Pilar Orti’s Journey to Support Remote Teams – Work From Home Forever

On this episode of Work From Home Forever, Pilar Orti, a writer, podcaster, and the founder of Virtual Not Distant joins us on the show. Pilar shared her journey into remote work, which began in 2011, driven by her need to travel frequently to visit family. Initially trained as an actress, Pilar transitioned to remote work, finding comfort in working from home and utilizing coworking spaces when necessary. Pilar discussed her experience with coworking spaces, noting the practical challenges such as commuting time, costs, and temperature discomfort. She ultimately found working from home more comfortable and convenient. Pilar has set up a cozy home office with a standing desk and plenty of natural light, sharing the space with her husband, who prefers coworking spaces. Pilar emphasized the importance of maintaining work-life balance, avoiding work apps on her mobile phone, and setting boundaries with clients regarding availability. She highlighted the need for understanding individual work preferences and creating a work environment that supports personal well-being. In founding Virtual Not Distant, Pilar aimed to support remote teams and small businesses in utilizing online spaces for effective collaboration. She underscored the growing acceptance of remote work and the importance of flexibility in today's work environment. Pilar’s approach to work-life balance and her commitment to creating a supportive remote work culture are central to her philosophy and the success of Virtual Not Distant. Connect with Pilar: Website: Virtual Not Distant LinkedIn: Pilar Orti Listen to this episode from Pilar's podcast, Adventures in Podcasting, where I was her guest and we talked about my start in podcasting. ________________________  Do you love the show? Check out our⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠official merch page⁠⁠⁠ ⁠on Etsy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and support the show! ________________________

1. S3 E6 Founding Virtual Not Distant: Pilar Orti’s Journey to Support Remote Teams 44:11
2. S3 E5 Corey Walker: From Marketing Specialist to Instagram for Dummies 32:24
3. S3 E4 Stay Fit While You Sit: Ergonomic Tips with Mike Jones 30:57
4. S3 E3 Creating a Kind Workplace: Michael G. Neece on Leading with Kindness 36:30
5. S3 E2 From Family Therapy to Bestselling Author: Jack Lawrence's Career Pivot 30:05