Corporate

Redefining career and growth

Career growth is the continuous development and advancement of an individual's professional journey. It involves acquiring new skills, taking on increased responsibilities, and expanding the scope of influence within an organisation. In this podcast, learn about specific aspects that help you achieve great career growth.

Podcast Audio Transcript

Mimi: Hello listeners, this is Mimi; thank you for tuning in to yet another exciting and informative podcast from us at Infosys BPM. Today, we are discussing about redefining career and growth. And to talk about this, we have here with us, Uma Sankar, VP & Head of Organization Development. Welcome Uma. How are you?

Uma: I’m doing well, Mimi. Nice to be back on this podcast.

Mimi: It’s a pleasure to have you with us again. We have such an important topic today. When it comes to career, most people have their own expectations. With a rewarding corporate career behind you, how would you define career growth?

Uma: That’s a very relevant question, Mimi. The topic of career growth is very close to my heart. For most people, they naturally think about where their career stands at certain times: such as at the start of a new year, during appraisal periods, or when they see role changes in the organization. In uncertain times like these, there is the tendency to reflect more about our future and careers.

My definition of growth has changed a lot over the last few years. In the first 10-12 years of my professional career, it was all about promotions coupled with increase in salary. It was a moment of pride for me and my family whenever I got a promotion or salary increase. So career growth and success was all about promotions and salaries.

However, 15 years into the corporate world, as I moved into senior managerial roles, I realized that “up the ladder” is not the only way. Those frequent promotions were not coming easily. It took longer. That is when I realized that career growth does not come just by being a functional expert or completing a project on time. Slowly, the focus shifted to having a positive influence on others, developing the ability to challenge the status quo and building my professional network. It was no more about what I know , but more about who knows you. I realized that I must shift my focus from outcomes to the actual process and my behavior. Career growth and success meant is now about “competence + branding + network”.

Mimi: That’s a superb definition, Uma, and it’s from your own experience. I feel that this way of thinking about one’s career and growth is lost on many employees, especially in the initial years of their careers.

So, in your opinion what should one do differently to rethink their career growth?

Uma: Yes, it can be challenging for young folks to rethink their careers. You should make some changes in the way you think, act, and speak. It is time to ask questions like:

• Am I contributing or asking something insightful in meetings?
• Do I take responsibility for things beyond my goals?
• Do I take time to network and share ideas?
• Do I speak when it matters?

1. Bridge Programs: Bridge programs can be valuable tools for transitioning from one career stream to another. For example, if you're transitioning from operations to a digital or tech career stream, these programs can provide the necessary training and support to bridge the knowledge gap and make a successful transition.
2. Upskilling/cross-skilling programs: Upskilling and cross-skilling programs across domain and industries are designed to help individuals acquire additional skills that are relevant and complementary to their existing expertise.
3. Skill tags: Skill tags provide individuals with a unique identity and allow for deep specialization in specific domains. Skill tags can enhance visibility, attract relevant opportunities, and differentiate professionals in a competitive job market.
4. Soft skills development: While technical skills are crucial, it's essential not to overlook the importance of soft skills. Online and offline classes focused on communication, executive presence, conflict management, customer centricity, strategy, and other areas can greatly enhance your professional effectiveness and make you a well-rounded candidate for career growth.