Three lessons to empower career growth

Ponnu Kailasam joined Deloitte US-India Offices 20 years ago as a developer. In this blog post, he reflects on his journey from being a developer to becoming a leader, where learning constantly, communicating clearly, and reading voraciously are some of the important aspects that have helped him grow. He also writes about how these qualities have played a critical role in tapping the potential of his team.

Embracing the shift from core engineering to software development

Moving from core engineering to software development opened a world of innovation and creativity for me. In core engineering, I believe the focus is on the theoretical aspects of technology, but in software development, you get to bring these theories to life. My transition involved learning programming languages, software development methodologies, and understanding the intricacies of various technologies. This shift not only enhanced my problem-solving skills but also enabled me to create tangible solutions that impact real-world scenarios.

Anyone working in the cloud domain is when I’d say they’re at the forefront of a technological revolution. As one delves deeper into the realms of AI and cloud computing, one will notice how the future holds exciting careers prospects and possibilities. Here are 3 lessons I found valuable in my career journey with Deloitte as an individual professional and as a leader:

Life-long learning and power of consistency

Learning doesn't end with a diploma or a degree; it's a lifelong journey. Regardless of your profession, the world is always changing. New technologies emerge, industries evolve, and innovative ideas reshape the landscape. Furthermore, learning is not confined to traditional classrooms or textbooks. With the advent of technology, we can access a wealth of knowledge on-the-go through online courses, tutorials, podcasts, and interactive apps. Interestingly enough, diversifying your learning sources allows you to explore different perspectives and teaching styles. And engaging with communities and mentors can provide valuable real-world insights and support in your journey toward the future that you choose to carve out.

Consistency is critical to effective learning. Devoting even a small amount of time every day to learning can yield significant results over time. It's not about the quantity of hours spent but the quality of the time invested. In my experience, short and focused learning sessions allow for better retention and understanding. They fit into busy schedules and are more sustainable in the long run.

A continuous learning mindset not only keeps your skills sharp but also fosters adaptability – a crucial trait in our fast-paced world.

Ponnu Kailasam at a leadership event 

Empowering success through goal setting and commitment

Setting annual goals provides a structured roadmap for achieving the desired results. Having specific, time-bound objectives creates a sense of urgency and focus, compelling you to give the required effort. By dedicating your energy, time, and resources to achieving these goals within a defined timeframe, you not only strive to maximize your productivity, but also increase your chances of achieving the results. Enhanced motivation and commitment allow for measurable progress, thereby helping you to stay on track and make meaningful strides toward your aspirations. From what I’ve seen with my own career journey and my experience in leading teams, I can say this approach toward the goals, one year at a time, helps foster continuous growth and empowers you to achieve your long-term ambitions.

Fostering team harmony: Understanding and setting clear expectations in conflict resolution

Over the years, having reflected on the various instances I’ve experienced first-hand or have known about, I came to the understanding that addressing conflicts in teams requires a thoughtful approach. Firstly, understanding the reasons behind certain behaviors is crucial. People may react based on their emotions, insecurities, or unmet expectations. By identifying these reasons, teams can move from a place of judgment to one of understanding, fostering a more compassionate and cooperative atmosphere. Secondly, setting clear expectations can prevent misunderstandings and conflicts from arising in the first place. When team members are aware of their roles, responsibilities, and the team’s overall goals, a shared understanding is likely to develop and evolve. In that direction, open communication about expectations promotes transparency and aligns everyone toward common objectives. By combining understanding with proactive communication, teams can effectively navigate conflicts, promoting a harmonious and productive work environment.

Discovering wisdom through fiction: The transformative power of reading

If I were to equate how it feels to dive into the world of fiction, I’d say it’s nothing short of embarking on a journey that broadens my horizons and fuels my imagination. I believe that reading is one of the most enriching investments one can make. Fictional stories offer more than just entertainment. They teach me about diverse cultures, historical events, and complex human emotions. For instance, some of the legal thrillers provide insights into the intricacies of the legal system, while historical epics transport me to different eras, making history come alive. The ability of fiction to explore characters’ lives and motivations has an impact on my own understanding of the human psyche. Each book I read becomes a lesson, a new perspective, and a source of inspiration. In the pages of novels, I find not just stories, but also wisdom, and that, to me, is the true magic of reading.

As I transitioned out of core engineering and into software development, I realized the value we stand to gain from everyday life lessons. Here’s your cue to start your empowering journey to discover your impact and grow.

The views expressed here are of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of his current, former, or future employers or any organization with which he is associated.