Over the course of my corporate journey, I attended numerous trainings, each offering valuable insights. However, three of them stand out as transformative experiences that continue to stay with me.
1. Communication and Presentation Training at HP
With just six years of experience at HP, I was nominated for a communication and presentation training held at a five-star hotel. As someone shy about presenting in front of an audience, this training was a turning point.
The instructors recorded each participant’s presentation using a handy camera, and later, we all reviewed our performances. Watching myself was an eye-opener—I realized how unaware I was of my body language while focusing solely on my thoughts.
We learned essential skills like standing in one place confidently, using hand movements effectively, and expressing ourselves clearly. These lessons not only boosted my confidence but also played a crucial role in shaping my entrepreneurial journey.
2. “7 Habits Workshop” at Citrix
The second life-changing training was a two-day “7 Habits Workshop” at Citrix, inspired by Stephen R. Covey’s The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. The session was led by a charismatic retired army officer dressed in full military attire, which instantly captivated us.
One exercise from the workshop left a lasting impression: “Imagine you are celebrating your 80th birthday. Who would you want to be there? Reflect on whether you are building meaningful relationships and avoiding hurting others today.”
This profound activity shifted my perspective, making me more people-oriented and empathetic. On my farewell day at Citrix, nearly everyone highlighted my friendliness as a defining characteristic—proof of the transformation that this training brought into my life.
3. Emerging Leadership Program (ELP) at Citrix
The third impactful training was the Emerging Leadership Program (ELP), also at Citrix. This six-month program, spearheaded by the incredible HR team, including Dr. Pallab and India MD Mr. Rakesh Singh, aimed to identify and nurture the next generation of leaders.
The program was systematic and comprehensive, featuring numerous self-assessment surveys that helped us discover our strengths and areas for improvement. One key takeaway was the screening of the movie The Legend of Bagger Vance.
A pivotal moment in the film was when the protagonist confesses that a golf ball moved slightly due to a feather’s touch and takes a penalty—an act of integrity that resonated deeply. Many compare the film’s themes to the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita. It feels serendipitous to recall this today, on Gita Jayanti (11-12-24), a day to celebrate and honor the wisdom of the Gita.
A Heartfelt Thank You to HR Teams
I owe immense gratitude to the HR teams across all the companies I’ve worked with. Their tireless efforts ensure employees are happy, engaged, and aligned with organizational goals.
If you are an HR professional reading this—Thank You! And if you know someone in HR, take a moment to express your gratitude. Let’s appreciate the people who help us grow, both personally and professionally.
