Professional Growth

 

I cannot claim to have developed habit of Journaling or diarising, which is advised by geropsychologists. Studies say it helps Seniors to enhance their memory, and remain digital savvy, balance emotions and reduce stress.

I have been more inclined, lately, to write down observations, my interpretation, and learnings for me and for younger people in my circle of influence. It also helps in communicating with those observed obliquely without need to come in direct conflict, especially when I have observed infirmities, which can be spotted easily by others but not the infirm. It also helps since I may not be able to personally approach the observed or cannot afford to be candid.

Last night I recalled a recent observation. A young Founder CEO was tele-conversing with his team of younger professionals. I have observed this CEO for may be more than 30 years. I consider him to be a hugely networked, passionate leadership development specialist. He is ambitious but unlike the examples we have in the country, does not believe in growing business by hook or by crook. He is a kind soul, goes out of the way and at times much more than he should, to take care of team members. He is generous to the extent business can permit. He is a pleasantly soft spoken, mostly laughing individual. He can hardly be rude. He is and not just he, the family of four are loveable individuals. Direct or indirect effect of the Gandhi (the Mahatma, the Bapu) can be felt by those who come in his vicinity. He believes in benevolence and democracy, when it comes to business. 

I was mute but visible. I watched him cajoling the young audience, reminding them of what the group had, just a couple of months back resolved to achieve in terms of performance, he referred to as R2. Anguish was perceptible and palpable to me even from the distance. He was labouring to be candid. 

I could interpret the youngsters were failing him. There were signals of deteriorating quality of service resulting into displeasure of some key accounts. It is not only the CEO, but also the organization he has founded and nurtured, are dear to me and growth of that organization, which can only happen through growth of the young and expanding team, both personally and professionally, is sole interest of my association with the same. 

My thoughts were racing. How can I help? Can I tell the infirm what are their infirmities, based on what I heard? How can the message be conveyed so that the younger ones do not get demotivated nor disheartened? I thought let me journalise what could have been my message. Here it goes.

 

“Friends, 

I want to have an open conversation about something crucial: unlocking your full potential. You've stepped into the exciting world of Consulting, driven by passion and ambition. But, let's be honest, the journey isn't always smooth. There are bumps along the road, and sometimes, those bumps come from knowledge gaps, limited research, and a lack of accountability.

We all struggle with these things at some point. It's not about being perfect; it's about acknowledging where we can improve. Let's tackle these challenges head-on:

• Depth of Knowledge: Remember, expertise takes time and dedication. Embrace continuous learning through courses, certifications, and industry publications. Don't be afraid to ask questions, seek mentorship, and engage in discussions with experienced professionals.
• Research Orientation: Research is the backbone of informed decisions. Before meetings, presentations, or recommendations, invest time in thorough research. This will boost your confidence and build trust with clients.
• Accountability: Taking ownership of your work is key. Be proactive, deliver on commitments, and follow up on tasks. Mistakes happen but learn from them and demonstrate accountability by actively seeking solutions.
• Confident Humility: Confidence is admirable, but remember, there's always more to learn. Embrace a confident humility that allows you to ask questions, learn from others, and acknowledge areas for growth.

Focus on Customer Centricity and Cost Consciousness:

These are crucial aspects of Consulting. Remember, your clients are your partners. Actively listen to their needs, understand their challenges, and tailor your solutions accordingly. By demonstrating genuine customer centricity and cost-consciousness, you'll build trust and long-term relationships. Remember Clients engage us for benefits to their business. They are not philanthropists responsible for sustaining our business.

Project Management:

• Strong project planning starts with thorough research and clear communication, ensuring everyone is on the same page. This leads to fewer rework cycles, happier clients, and ultimately, a positive impact on our bottom line – something that's crucial for career progression in any consulting firm.
• Remember, high-quality deliverables, like clear and concise reports, go a long way in building trust with clients. By investing in research and proofreading, you ensure our deliverables are polished and professional, reflecting our commitment to excellence.
• Let us leverage available resources, like project management training programs, to hone our skills in planning, execution, and cost control. This will not only make us better professionals but also contribute to our achieving R2, opening doors to even more rewarding opportunities.

Be the Specialist:

• As consultants, we're not just problem solvers; we're specialists who delve deep, uncover root causes, and design long-lasting solutions. This level of expertise requires continuously honing our skills through research, learning, and collaboration.
• Imagine the impact we can make by clearly explaining complex concepts to clients and proactively suggesting solutions based on cutting-edge research and best practices. This is the essence of being a specialist/ consultant and the key to building your reputation as a trusted advisor.
• Don't underestimate the power of mentorship and collaboration. Seek guidance from senior colleagues, learn from their experiences, and share your own knowledge with others. This continuous exchange of ideas will accelerate your growth and mastery of the craft.

This journey is about growth. Embrace the challenges, learn from every experience, and don't be afraid to push yourself. The Consulting field is dynamic and offers incredible career prospects, but competition is fierce and merciless. With dedication, continuous learning, and a commitment to excellence, you can become a sought-after leader, shaping the future of organizations and impacting lives.

 Remember:

• Be open to feedback: Seek constructive criticism and use it to fuel your growth.
• Network: Build relationships with colleagues, mentors, and clients. This opens doors to opportunities and fosters your professional development.
• Embrace the journey: It's exciting, challenging, and rewarding. Enjoy the process and celebrate your achievements!

You have the potential to become a game-changer in Consulting. Now, let's go unlock it!

Wish you all the best.”