Vikrant A.

Ever felt stuck in your operational role, wondering how to make that leap into leadership? You’re not alone. Many of us have been there, sitting at our desks, thinking, “What’s next for me? How do I showcase my skills for that promotion?” The transition from operations to leadership can be tricky. But with the right mindset and approach, you can navigate this journey successfully. Let’s break it down a bit. I’m Vikrant Aglawe, and over my 20+ years in the shared services industry, I’ve led multiple successful transitions—both for myself and my teams. Here’s what I learned. Understand the Landscape First off, grasp where you are in your journey. Operations roles are detail-oriented and process-driven. Leadership, on the other hand, demands a broader view. Here’s how to get yourself ready for that shift: Reflect on Your Experience: Take stock of what you’ve accomplished. What processes have you optimized? What teams have you led? This reflection will help you articulate your story. Identify Gaps: Recognize where your skills might fall short. Do you need more experience in strategic planning or stakeholder engagement? Figure it out. Develop Leadership Skills Alright, you’ve assessed your comfort zone. Now, it’s all about expanding your skill set. Here, we’re looking at both hard and soft skills. Soft skills, like emotional intelligence and communication, are game changers in leadership. And guess what? They don’t require a fancy degree to develop. Start by: Seeking Feedback: Ask your peers and supervisors where you can improve. Use that feedback as a springboard. Taking Initiative: Look for ways to lead projects, even small ones. Show your management you’re ready for more. Networking: Build relationships with leaders in your organization. Attend industry meetups and share your aspirations. Connecting with others gives you insights you hadn’t thought of. Showcase Your Value Now, let’s talk about visibility. You want to be seen as a leader long before you land that title. Think of this as marketing yourself without the cringe factor. Here’s how: Share Results: Document your successes and be vocal about them. If a process you led boosted efficiency by 20%, share it. Engage in Conversations: Step up in meetings. Your insights on operational improvements can highlight your leadership potential. Mentor Others: If you’ve been in the trenches, guide newer team members. This positions you as a go-to resource. Cultural Awareness Leadership isn’t just about the systems and processes. It’s also about understanding and managing people. In shared services, cultural awareness is crucial. You want to foster an environment that enhances collaboration and innovation. Here’s how to build that: Embrace Diversity: Recognize the value different perspectives bring. Working with diverse teams means more creative problem-solving. Encourage Open Communication: Create spaces where team members feel valued and heard. This builds trust, a cornerstone of effective leadership. Seek Leadership Opportunities If you’re hungry to grow, seek opportunities that stretch your capabilities. Look beyond your immediate responsibilities. Participate in cross-functional teams. Volunteer for projects that have leadership components. Here’s a few specific strategies to consider: Internal Programs: Many organizations offer leadership development programs. These often include mentoring, workshops, and real-time project-based learning. Contribute to Strategy: Align yourself with leaders in planning sessions. Your operational insight can bolster strategic direction. Learn Continuously: Consider certifications or courses focused on management techniques or process optimization. Connect with Leaders Find mentors who have walked this path before you. A mentor can share invaluable lessons from their own transitions. You can learn a ton from their mistakes and successes. How about reaching out to someone in the leadership team for a coffee chat? It’s about building relationships as much as it is learning. Stay Resilient Your journey will come with challenges. There’ll be setbacks. But resilience is key. Every leader faces bumps along the road. Here’s how to build a resilient mindset: Embrace Failures: Treat each setback as a learning experience. Reflect on what went wrong and how you’ll do it better next time. Stay Focused on Goals: Keep your career aspirations in sight. It will motivate you during tough times. Celebrate Small Wins: Every step forward is progress. Give yourself credit for achievements big and small. Conclusion: Make Your Move The shift from operations to leadership is a journey worth taking. The skills you’ve cultivated in operations can serve as a solid foundation for effective leadership. With determination, self-awareness, and strategic growth, you’ll be navigating your path to leadership before you know it. Remember, the move from operational mindsets to leadership involves embracing change, continually learning, and delivering results while connecting with your team. Are you ready to tackle that leap? Start today—because your next career chapter is closer than you think. Don’t forget to check out THEGBSEDGE for more insights into leadership and transformation in the shared services industry. Happy transitioning! “`

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the rapid shifts in the business landscape? Bold moves and informed, swift decisions are the name of the game now. The world of shared services is undergoing constant transformation, and as leaders, we’ve got to keep our eyes peeled. Our associates, senior associates, and specialists in the operational and financial systems arena are looking to us for direction. So how do we cultivate a career strategy that not only stands tall in this whirlwind but also inspires the next wave of leaders? As I reflect on my 20+ years in this space, setting up massive shared service centers for global companies, I’ve learned one crucial thing: adaptability is key. The choices we make today shape our tomorrow. Let’s dive into some straightforward strategies that can bolster your GBS leadership journey while keeping it real and relatable. Own Your Skills: Stay relevant, stay powerful The first step in any career strategy involves embracing a learning mindset. The shared services landscape is intricate—technology, processes, culture, finance, and customer experience all intertwine. Here’s how you can ensure your skills stay sharp: Attend Workshops and Seminars: Immerse yourself in the latest trends in shared services transformation. Meetups can also connect you with other leaders facing similar challenges. Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera and LinkedIn Learning are gold mines. You can pick up skills on process optimization, project management, and change management at your own pace. Networking: Engage with industry experts. They often offer insights you won’t find in textbooks. Remember, it’s often not about the years of experience but the wisdom you gain and adapt over time. More importantly, as leaders, we should also facilitate learning for our associates. It builds a culture of growth where everyone thrives. Focus on Process Excellence: Make it work for you Have you ever tried to get through a day with a cluttered desk? It’s messy, chaotic, and honestly… just a waste of time. The same goes for processes in our GBS environments. Process excellence influences both efficiency and morale. Here’s how to optimize processes in your shared services organization: Migrate to Automation: Consider deploying robotic process automation. It’s not about cutting jobs but rather empowering your team to focus on high-value tasks. Regular Reviews: Dedicate time as a team to dissect workflows. Identify bottlenecks and collaboratively design solutions. It fosters a team spirit and showcases your leadership skills. Feedback Loops: Actively encourage input from your team. They’re the ones knee-deep in the system daily and can offer invaluable insights. No one wants to feel stuck in a hamster wheel—not your team, not you. Fostering process excellence boosts morale and gives everyone the breathing room they crave. Culture Counts: Build a community In the hustle and bustle of achieving targets, it’s easy to overlook culture. But let’s be honest: a supportive culture does wonders for productivity and job satisfaction. A connected team is a motivated team. Employee Recognition: Celebrate victories—big or small. Create a platform for shout-outs. A simple “thank you” goes a long way. Diversity Matters: Promote inclusivity. Different perspectives fuel innovation and creativity. Encourage new ideas even if they come wrapped in unconventional packages. Wellness Initiatives: Introduce wellness programs. Happy minds produce stellar results. When your team is empowered to speak up, share ideas, and feel appreciated, you’ll notice a substantial rise in performance. And it becomes contagious—employees often end up advocating for the organization outside of the office, which brings in the right kind of attention. Leverage Technology Innovation: Stay ahead of the curve Ever noticed how some leaders seem to have a crystal ball? They appear always a step ahead when it comes to tech innovations. Embracing technology isn’t optional; it’s a necessity in the competitive landscape of GBS leadership. Stay Updated: Subscribe to industry blogs. The THEGBSEDGE blog is my go-to for insights on shared services transformation and trends that affect us all. Implement New Tools: Be open to adopting new tools that can streamline operations—like ERP systems or customer relationship management software. Encourage Tech Fluency: Ensure your team has access to tech training sessions. Tech-savvy teams lead the charge in innovation. Investing time and resources in technology innovation doesn’t just improve operations—it helps you evolve into a forward-thinking leader. And who doesn’t want to be considered a pioneer in shared services? Customer Experience is King: Don’t forget your purpose Are you delivering what your customers truly need? In our realm of shared services, it’s easy to lose sight of the end users—if we aren’t delivering value to them, then what’s the point? Never overlook the importance of customer experience. Engage Directly: Speak to your customers. Survey them regularly. Understand their pain points. Feedback is Gold: Use their feedback to refine your processes. If they’re not satisfied, use it as a launchpad to improve. Build Relationships: Foster relationships with your clients. A personal touch can set you apart from the competition. By putting the customer first, you’ll create loyalty that translates into long-term success. Forget the numbers game—focus on meaningful interactions that resonate. Be a Leader, Not a Boss: Your influence matters This last nugget might just be the most crucial. Being a leader in the shared services arena isn’t about being in a position of authority; it’s about elevating those around you. When your associates feel empowered, the entire organization benefits. Mentorship: Become a mentor. Sharing your experiences can sharpen skills and boost confidence. Accessibility: Be approachable. Your team should feel comfortable coming to you with ideas or issues. Lead by Example: Showcase the standards you expect to see. Integrity, accountability, and hard work should be your guiding principles. Consider leaders you’ve admired. What did they do differently? Often, it lies in their approachability and willingness to invest in their teams. Embrace that idea. Final Thoughts The GBS landscape is continually shifting, and the leaders who succeed in the future will be those who adapt quickly and purposefully. By prioritizing your skills, focusing on process excellence, building a strong culture, leveraging technology innovation, enhancing customer

Let’s face it: data analytics can be intimidating. You’re a manager, a leader in your field, but suddenly you’re asked to make sense of mountains of data. Where do you even start? It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but I’m here to tell you that mastering data analytics is not just a skill; it’s a superpower for managers like you. In my two decades working in the shared services industry and leading numerous large scale shared service centers, I’ve seen how the right data analytics approach can not just inform decisions, but transform them. Understanding the Landscape Before we dive deep, let’s get a grip on why data analytics matters for you as a manager. Think about it: you’re responsible for strategic decisions that affect your team and your business. Data analytics equips you with insights to optimize processes, improve performance, and allocate resources effectively. While it might sound complex, remember that the goal is to make data work for you. Here’s what you need to consider: Identify your Goals: What are you trying to achieve? Know your Data: What data do you have at your disposal? Utilize Tools: What tools can simplify your analytics? Frame the Analysis: How will you interpret the results? Tools of the Trade Now, let’s talk about tools. You don’t need to be a tech wizard to harness the power of analytics tools. Here are some must-haves: Excel: Classic, but never outdated. Use pivot tables and formulas. Power BI: A visual tool that turns data into narratives. Tableau: Helps create compelling visualizations. Google Analytics: If you’re looking at web data, this is your friend. Each tool offers unique advantages. Power BI, for instance, allows you to pull in real-time data and provide reports on-the-fly. Tableau is all about visual storytelling. Choose the one that aligns best with your goals and the data you have. Transforming Data into Decisions You have the data and the tools – now what? It’s time to turn that data into decisions. Here’s where analytics truly shines. Imagine you are reviewing the performance metrics of your team. Instead of just looking at numbers, consider: Patterns: Are there trends you notice over time? Outliers: Any unexpected results? Benchmarking: How do you compare with industry standards? Feedback Loops: Are there areas for improvement? Connecting the dots is crucial. A mere glance at the numbers won’t cut it. You need to dig deeper to understand the ‘why’ behind the figures. Storytelling with Data Here’s a little secret – analytics isn’t just about numbers; it’s about storytelling. How can you create a narrative from your data? Consider these storytelling techniques: Contextualize: Give background info for clarity. Visualize: Use graphs and charts to paint pictures. Engage: Ask your audience questions, solicit feedback. Simplify: Avoid jargon; keep it relatable. This is your chance to take your audience on a journey. Show them what the data reveals, not just what it says. Building a Data-Driven Culture As managers, it’s your job to create an environment that embraces data. How can you build a data-driven culture? Here are some insights: Educate: Offer training sessions on analytics tools. Encourage: Foster an atmosphere where team members feel comfortable questioning data. Share Successes: Highlight how data-driven decisions have benefitted your team. Experiment: Be open to pilot projects that use analytics. Remind your team that data analytics is an ongoing learning journey. Celebrate those small wins that arise from analytics, because it’s the aggregated efforts that will take your team to new heights. Common Pitfalls to Watch Out For Knowing what to avoid is as critical as knowing what to do. Here are some pitfalls you’ll want to dodge: Ignoring the Data: Just because it’s there doesn’t mean you can ignore it. Overcomplicating Analysis: Always strive for simplicity. Inconsistent Data Practices: Consistency is key, otherwise, you’ll lose insights. Neglecting Data Security: Always safeguard your datasets. By being aware of these pitfalls, you’ll navigate the analytics waters with confidence and clarity. Continuous Learning and Adaptation The analytics landscape is always evolving. What worked yesterday may not always apply tomorrow. Here’s how to stay ahead of the game: Engage in Webinars: Regularly attend sessions on the latest tools and technologies. Read Articles: Keep your knowledge fresh with relevant articles from expert sources. Network: Connect with other professionals to exchange ideas. Experiment: Allow yourself to try new methods, even if they fail. Adaptability is your ally. Embrace change and ensure your analytics practices evolve with the industry. Conclusion Mastering data analytics isn’t just a strategic advantage; it’s a necessity for today’s managers in the shared services landscape. But don’t shy away from the process. With time, the right tools, and a solid strategy, you will see the transformation unfold. Every step you take toward mastering analytics is a step toward empowered decision-making. Keep pushing boundaries and share your insights. Let’s ride the data wave together, and as you delve deeper, don’t forget to visit THEGBSEDGE. It’s where innovation, transformation, and leadership in the shared services industry come alive.

You ever wonder what it takes to thrive in the shared services space? What skills do you really need to grow your career? If you’re an associate, a process expert, or a super user, let’s clarify a few things. Mastering shared services isn’t just about knowing the systems or processes. It’s about becoming a well-rounded professional who can adapt and lead in ever-changing environments. Understanding Shared Services: It’s More Than Just a Buzzword Shared services can feel like a buzzword tossed around in every meeting. But at its core, it’s about efficiency and collaboration. Think of it as a way to centralize repetitive tasks. By sharing services across departments, organizations cut costs and streamline operations. But what does success look like in shared services? It starts with having the right skills! Let’s break down several key competencies that set you apart. 1. Communication Skills: Your Bridge to Success Effective communication is your first line of defense in shared services. You’re not just talking to robots; you’re interacting with people. Here’s what you need: Clear Messaging: You should convey complex ideas in a simple way. Active Listening: Understanding concerns of team members is crucial. Feedback Skills: Be open to feedback and willing to give it constructively. 2. Process Optimization: Streamlining Like a Pro This one’s a game-changer. Process optimization is all about making things more efficient. Dive into methodologies like Lean or Six Sigma. Here’s how: Identify bottlenecks. What slows things down? Map processes. Visualize workflows for better understanding. Test improvements. Small changes can make a big impact! This skill doesn’t just benefit you; it transforms the entire organization. Curious about more strategies? Check out our insights on process excellence. 3. Technology Savvy: Embrace the Digital Era Being tech-savvy is a must. But don’t sweat it; you don’t need to be a programmer. Here’s what to focus on: Software Proficiency: Learn the tools your organization uses. Data Analysis: Understand how to pull and interpret data effectively. Automation Tools: Familiarize yourself with RPA and chatbots to improve efficiency. 4. Leadership Skills: Bring the Team Together Even if you’re not in a management position, leadership skills matter. It’s about taking initiative and inspiring others. Here’s how to cultivate those skills: Be proactive—don’t wait for instructions. Encourage collaboration among team members. Promote a positive culture and support your peers. Great leaders know how to motivate others. Interested in leading effectively? Our leadership strategies can guide your approach! 5. Adaptability: Keeping Up with Change Change is the only constant… especially in shared services. You’ll need to pivot quickly and efficiently. Here’s what to do: Stay Updated: Keep yourself informed about industry trends. Continuous Learning: Enroll in courses that sharpen your skills. Problem-Solving: Tackle challenges head-on without fear. Anecdotes from the Field Let me share a quick story. Back when I first started in shared services, I thought knowing the software was enough. But it wasn’t. I struggled until I realized the importance of interpersonal skills. One day, during a training session, I noticed a co-worker fumbling through the process. Instead of leaving him to figure it out alone, I stepped in, offering help. That small act turned into a mentoring relationship that elevated both of us. It taught me that sharing knowledge is vital in this field! Wrap-Up: You’re On Your Way Mastering shared services requires continuous effort. Each skill we talked about is a building block for your career growth. Focus on communication, process optimization, technology savvy, leadership, and adaptability. The shared services industry is competitive, but you’ve got what it takes to stand out. Whether you’re an associate or a process expert, take these skills to heart. And don’t forget, for more valuable insights into shared services transformation, the THEGBSEDGE blog is a phenomenal resource! We’re all in this together. Let’s make a difference in our industry, one skill at a time.

Ever sat in a meeting, wondering if there’s a faster way to do what you’re doing? Are you tired of chasing efficiency while everyone else seems to be leveraging automation to make their lives easier? Robotic Process Automation (RPA) is not just a buzzword—it’s a game changer, especially within shared services operations. Let’s strip it down. Shared services are all about streamlining processes. And if you’ve got a handle on RPA, you’re on a path that can make your career not just survive but thrive in the evolving landscape of shared services. The Foundation of RPA in Shared Services First, let’s talk about why RPA matters. Cost Efficiency: It’s no secret; companies dive into RPA for the savings. You can reduce operational costs by up to 30%. Scalability: As business needs change, RPA can adapt quickly. It allows you to scale operations without the headache of hiring more staff. Error Reduction: Automation will handle repetitive tasks without the human error you might encounter. Employee Empowerment: Imagine freeing up time to work on strategic, meaningful tasks instead of mundane data entry. Mastering RPA isn’t just for those with tech backgrounds. It’s for everyone in the shared services realm. I’ve been walking this path for over 20 years, and here’s my take on getting it right. Developing Your RPA Skills The first step in mastering your RPA career is skill development. Here’s where to focus: Understand the Basics: Start with online courses on RPA platforms like UiPath, Blue Prism, or Automation Anywhere. Hands-On Practice: Get your hands dirty. Work on real projects or simulations. Nothing beats practical experience. Join Communities and Forums: Sharing knowledge and experiences can provide insights you won’t find in textbooks. Stay Updated: RPA is continually evolving. Subscribe to industry blogs like THEGBSEDGE to keep up with trends and insights. Identifying Opportunities for RPA Implementation Now, where can you apply what you’ve learned? The possibilities are almost endless: Routine Data Entry: Automate data migration from one system to another—everyone’s favorite time-waster. Invoice Processing: Let robots handle invoicing to cut down on manual errors and speed up approvals. Employee Onboarding: Create a seamless onboarding experience by automating paperwork and system access. Reporting: Automatically gather data and produce reports, giving stakeholders timely insights without the manual headache. Don’t just dive into automation. Think strategically about where RPA can add the most value. This is where strategy and leadership come into play. Building Buy-In for RPA Projects Even if you’re equipped with skills and identify opportunities, you need to get buy-in from management and your colleagues. Here’s how: Showcase the Benefits: Present data that illustrates potential savings and efficiency gains. Start Small: Pilot smaller projects that require less investment and risk. Show quick wins that lead to broader initiatives. Involve Stakeholders: Gather feedback from the team to ensure everyone’s voice is heard, making for a smoother rollout. Highlight Case Studies: Share success stories from other organizations in the shared services space. Sometimes seeing is believing. Continuous Improvement: RPA Beyond Initial Launch Once you’ve implemented RPA solutions, don’t rest easy. Continuous improvement is key. Monitor Performance: Use key performance indicators (KPIs) to track the effectiveness of your RPA processes. Adjust as needed. Gather Feedback: Regularly check in with users to uncover any usability issues or opportunities for additional automation. Expand Automation: As confidence builds, look for more processes that could benefit from RPA. Process optimization is your best friend here. Always be on the lookout for ways to enhance what’s in place. You can learn more about this in our process excellence section. Networking and Community Don’t underestimate the power of networking. Connecting with peers in the shared services industry can offer fresh perspectives and reveal new opportunities. Attend Industry Events: Whether virtual or face-to-face, these gatherings can provide invaluable insights and connections. Participate in Forums: Join discussions on platforms like LinkedIn or industry-specific groups. Share your experiences and learn from others. Join or Form a Meetup Group: Collaborate with others interested in RPA. Sharing challenges and solutions can foster a supportive environment. The Future: RPA and Beyond RPA is just the beginning. The shared services landscape is shifting daily. Here’s what you should watch for: AI Integration: Machine Learning is creeping into RPA, making it more intelligent and capable. End-to-End Automation: Picture entire processes running without human intervention. The potential is massive. Focus on Soft Skills: As automation takes over the mundane, you’ll need strong problem-solving and human interaction skills more than ever. Conclusion: Your Path to RPA Mastery Mastering RPA starts with a commitment to your own learning. It requires proactivity—not just waiting for the wave of automation to pass you by. Engage with resources that elevate your knowledge. Embrace the disruptions and innovations within the ecosystem. RPA isn’t just a tool; it’s part of a larger conversation about the future of shared services. Interested in more insights? Check out THEGBSESGE blog for a treasure trove of strategies related to technology and innovation in shared services. Let’s keep this conversation going. Your success in mastering RPA could be the key to unlocking the next chapter of your career.