In a recent insightful conversation with Brijesh Balakrishnan; SVP & Delivery Head – Digital Engineering Services and GIS at CSS Corp, we were able to decode some of the latest tech trends that are the driving force behind the rapid growth of IT industry. Here are some excerpts from our talk.
What are the trending skills for job-seekers in 2020?
Heading into the year 2020, we encounter seasoned pros and freshers who are keen to know what’s up and trending, and what’s down and out. I want to say that some of those technologies that were hot in the previous year are still going strong in the subsequent years. Digital technologies like any product or service are on a lifecycle trajectory going through various phases of development, maturity, peaks, and plateaus. If I were in their shoes now, I’d cast my eyes on Front-end technologies, Data Sciences, RPA, Agile DevOps and Micro Services. Other emerging trends include immersive experiences such as mixed reality, which combines AR and VR.
What is your organisation doing to promote diversity at the workplace?
Among the many values that we espouse as a responsible corporate citizen, diversity is at the core of our hiring and retention programs. CSS Corp is an equal employment opportunity employer whose motto is to ensure a diverse blend of all genders, backgrounds, age groups, and professional tenures. Moreover, we strive to ensure that the mix across various project teams displays an accurate reflection of the best practices in the industry. We keep a close eye on the ratio of women to men in the organization. We take stock every quarter to review and ensure that all our talent sourcing programs meet the diversity and inclusion goals enshrined in our policy. Vibes from our hallways and cubicles showcase an apt composition from an orchestra of talent and diversity. It is through this diversity that we ensure the workplace is creative, engaging, and productive.
What is your take on the adoption of fast-emerging technologies by the companies?
One needn’t look further than the pink papers and media buzz to witness the widespread adoption of new-age technologies. Yes, companies are all caught up with the disruptive technology whirlwind that has swept the IT landscape. However, the focus must also be channelized internally—toward employees. At CSS Corp, for example, we are tapping digital technologies to engage employees and draw out the best from them. The need to foster a culture of reskilling, and innovation along with exposure to different domains ensures delivery teams are agile in the digital economy. In the experiences that I’ve gleaned thus far, I’d say that customer engagement, employee engagement and process efficiencies are the 3 intertwined arches that enterprise leaders must never lose sight off.
What advice would you like to give people who are starting their careers?
I’d advise job seekers to take a close look at their resumes. Skills across the latest technologies and trends add lustre to any profile. Front end technologies, Data Sciences, RPA, Agile DevOps and Micro Services etc., are music to the ears of prospective employers today. Novices who are embarking on IT careers have their whole life in front of them. Today’s digital workplaces are an oyster of opportunities. So, seize the moment. Cast off the mind-set that says: “I want to stick with Java or .NET.” Show alacrity in taking up different projects that demand various skill sets. The market rightfully demands that candidates re-skill and cross-skill across other technologies. Also, freshers must be quick on the draw to lend a helping hand in other projects and domains. Continual learning is a way to sharpen the competitive edge and stay relevant in the digital economy.