I was dodging garbage trucks at a recycling plant last fall. A few weeks later I was cracking my brain figuring out inventory management for an international luxury brand, data governance for a national sports federation and timekeeping for offshore motorboat racing. The only common denominator being that none of them had anything to do with financial services, which has been my principal domain for more than twenty years.
I know that many people firmly believe that professional skills learned in one industry are not transferrable or relevant in another industry. Headhunters, recruiters, executives, customers, colleagues. This perception could not be further from the truth and finally I am a living proof myself. Many industries experience similar challenges and look for new opportunities and ways to serve their customers. My experiences from transforming and digitalizing financial services have proven to be valuable in boosting circular economy, digitalizing education, retail, sports and much more. I believe that it is only wise to look for inspiration cross industries to improve business.
Stepping outside one’s comfort zone has become a mantra to encourage learning and growth. Transferring to a new industry is certainly that. It is simultaneously invigorating and daunting. You will immediately see yourself in a new light and learn about yourself. Regardless of your seniority. Skills you forgot you had might be rare and precious. Imagine that! The way people evaluate you is different and often surprising. And there are things you cannot understand but others take for granted and therefore cannot even tell you about. It is a bumpy ride for sure and occasionally you are set to mess up a little.
Somehow, we are taught to fear change and tumbling. We are certainly not born that way. How does a baby learn to walk? How do you learn a new sport? By trying, falling down and getting up. It is the same with careers and business. Businesses that do not experiment or study their environment will stagnate and fade away. Executives who focus on keeping the status quo will eventually ruin their business. And people who are not curious enough to try new things, will not grow or achieve much. Standing up means you have tried something new and learned. It is a skill that has always been within you.
I am by no means saying that everyone should jump into a new industry although it has been really gratifying for me. And I am not saying that trying out new stuff means you are set to fail, quite the opposite. Learning is a life-long journey. Even when it is about dodging garbage trucks while trying to find a meeting room (and praising oneself for not wearing a suit…). Pick you battle, personal or business, embrace your bruised knees and stand up with a smile on your face! Just do it…..
Apeiroga, it’s partners and I are always happy to keep your business moving. Including banks, fintechs and everyone working within Financial Services - you are still very close to my heart and I have new tricks up in my sleeve.
