Right question can turn the tables!
I was watching a web series, where a comment made by the protagonist, a lawyer, triggered a series of thoughts.
Here is the scene.
Lawyer’s assistant, when they are unable to find any clue, says, “We are not able to find the right answers”.
To which, the lawyer replies,
“Sometimes, it’s not the Answers but the right Questions that can turn the tables !”
2015–16, GlobalLogic Noida.
Joining GlobalLogic as my second organisation was a high point of my career. My two years association, with this amazing organisation transformed me as a professional.
I joined the product team that was developing a Retail application for US client as an Android developer. Due to restructuring, the size of the team was reduced, and we were shuffled to different engagements. My initial excitement to work in a mobile application team was shattered within a few seconds. I tried to reach out to different hiring managers for Project change, but there were so many folks affected with this restructuring, somehow my request was not prioritised.
Sumit Sood, the then GL India Head, used to open Q&As every time towards the end of every town hall, where he encouraged employees to talk about their problems. I made up my mind to raise my concern to Sumit directly.
I still remember, I was shivering and almost numb when I raised my hand and Sumit said, “Give the mic to the young fellow”.
I was almost out of words, I ended up saying “I don’t like the tech stack I am working in. I want to build cool mobile apps”.
“Hey, we have some good android projects in our Nagpur centre, will you be willing to go? Just let us know and let me see what I can do for you.”
I said, “Thank you, I will let you know”, but while I was sitting down — I could spot all eyes on me. Thoughts of moving to a city 650 miles away sent shivers down my spine.
Upon Sumit’s recommendation — the HR person found an opportunity for me in Nagpur and scheduled a conversation with the hiring manager. I didn’t refuse, but politely said, “ that I will let you know”.
Coincidentally, I met Sumit again, and I was surprised that he remembered my face (that time he was leading the India team with more than 15,000 employees). He asked about my plans and could sense the insecurity in my mind. I said, I was not sure about Nagpur, how I will come up with a new culture and city.
“Man, that’s the only way you grow. I spent a good number of years in Chennai, and those were full of learnings and growth”.
“Go for one year and come back if you don’t like it”
“Is it possible?”
“Why not”
People told me everything, No one comes back after one year. Leaders will not be accountable for your return and everything. Somehow, I was convinced with Sumit’s thoughts, and I decided to accept this as a challenge and then decide later.
Honestly, the first few months were difficult. New city, people, culture, food — everything was different. I felt like resigning and running away but somehow, I felt that I need to try a few more months before making any decision.
Gradually, I started liking the place, the work, and made some lifetime friends there.
In the next town hall that happened in Nagpur, Sumit cited my example and I felt super proud about my decision.
I feel that one year in Nagpur made me a better professional. I made some good friends and they helped me survive in that project, but more than that — living in a rented accommodation, cooking my own food, and adapting with people from different culture — were significant takeaways. I learned the importance of having Empathy towards the team, customers and even towards ourselves in order to thrive in any role in this industry.
I moved on from GlobalLogic, to explore new avenues — but I always feel proud of my association with the place.
My friends Rahul, Prasad, Tejas, Mahesh, Bhavna, Vimal, Sachin, Bhushan R, Vipendra & others are still in touch with me, and I’m indebted to their support during my one year in Nagpur.
Sumit Sood and Krishna Vir Singh continue to guide me till date in my personal and professional world.
Yes, that was my question, that changed my life.
If you’re hesitant about asking questions, or have a question in mind, go out and try it out.
Who knows, “The right question may change the game for you as well!”
To quote Eugene Jonesco :
“It is not the answer that enlightens, but the question!”
This is my eighth post from the series “Ricordare”. Follow me on Medium to read my previous posts. Also, leave your thoughts in the comment section.
