“I have always had an aptitude for numbers but always thought them boring,” she says. “But the actual numbers, while an absolute component and requirement of the role, is only one piece of the puzzle”

Mid-career transitions are very common, according to Lisa Melo, RBC’s Vice President, Learning & Performance. “In addition to Erin, I see it in my family and in the wider talent marketplace.”

Melo says RBC is keen to support employees through these career transitions, whether through learning programs, upskilling and, in some cases, reskilling. Assessments, coaching, learning and on-the-job practice help employees move into new and different work across RBC.

“Relationship Managers – Erin’s current role – complete a 28-week program that focuses on financial acumen, lending at RBC, client interactions, advice and running a business so they can be successful in their role.”

While training and mentorship programs eased Corstorphine’s transition, she was also surprised to discover that she had more transferable skills than she imagined, such as interacting with different types of people, adapting quickly in new situations, curiosity for continuous learning, autonomy to try new approaches and freedom to develop her brand within the company.

“All things you do in theatre,” she recalls.

But in addition to skill development, it was RBC’s culture of support that played a key role in Corstorphine’s success in an unexpected career.

“RBC creates a safe space to learn and grow,” she says. “When I came back from my final maternity leave, for example, I was still feeling a little lost. I knew personal banking wasn’t my end destination. I had a leader at that time who was instrumental in guiding me, helping me think differently and looking in several different areas to help me find my next role within RBC. He helped me find a landing spot that fulfilled not only the consistency she was craving but also what role would fulfill that creative side of my person.”

It may have been an accident, but her career is a perfect fit.

This article was initially published in the Toronto Star as part of a sponsored content partnership.

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