Time setter story: Janice Odijk on objective recruitment

Janice is a scientist in workforce development at TNO. She works on innovations for organisations in the security domain. ‘I work on knowledge development and learning technology to support security professionals and organisations with complex staffing issues, such as sustainable employability and the development of unique skills. I do this in a multidisciplinary team with educational experts, data scientists and even colleagues with a background in construction engineering. I myself am an organisational psychologist. It is wonderful that everyone approaches challenges from a different perspective. That leads to better solutions.’

Janice came into contact with TNO through her previous job. ‘During my work at Erasmus University, I was tasked with researching an innovation for objective recruitment and selection. An innovation from TNO. I conducted an experiment to test whether it truly promotes equal opportunities in job applications. This impactful innovation led me to work at TNO.’

Objective recruitment and selection

Making the application process more objective is a subject Janice focuses on extensively and provides training in. ‘It is about looking at what really matters on the job – not gender, ethnicity or hobbies – but what someone can do, what qualities they possess, and how to optimally match person and position. This ensures people end up in positions where they can use their strengths and are less likely to leave the organisation.’

It starts with curiosity

She emphasises the importance of diverse perspectives within an organisation. ‘When people think of diversity, they quickly think of demographic checkboxes: gender, culture or education, but that is just one side of the story,’ says Janice. ‘Backgrounds and experiences provide valuable perspectives on the work. My Cape Verdean background and experiences as a woman and researcher mean I look at issues slightly differently than colleagues. These differences in perspective are valuable, especially for organisations seeking to innovate.’

Janice believes diversity begins with inclusive leadership. ‘You cannot utilise diversity if you are not open to different ways of thinking and doing,’ she explains. ‘That requires openness, curiosity, and equality. Everyone must have a fair chance to be seen and heard at work.’

Role model

‘During my studies, it was important for me to be supported by women in positions I aspired to. It gave me the feeling: 'I can do that too'. That has made the difference for me.’ Janice emphasises the importance of self-confidence and discovering your strengths. ‘Discover what you're good at, what makes you happy, and surround yourself with people who stimulate that in you,’ she says.

‘I have a daughter and a son. And it is incredibly important to have positive role models in your life. Being such a role model for my children, that is what drives me.’