What do you do if your colleagues are overshadowing you in Payment Systems?

If you're feeling overshadowed in the Payment Systems arena, focus on elevating your skills and visibility. Start by enhancing your expertise through targeted learning and certifications. Make your contributions more visible by leading projects, sharing insights in meetings, and collaborating across teams. Seek feedback and mentorship to refine your approach and document your achievements for discussions on career progression. Additionally, engage with the broader Payment Systems community through forums and industry events to expand your network and uncover new opportunities. Maintaining a positive outlook and professional demeanor is key to turning this challenge into a growth opportunity, ensuring you stand out and advance in your field

I would do a SWOT analysis of the area where I would operate, as well as local peculiarities. As we all know, there's a big gap between user behavior in Europe and Asia, for example. I would also do customer development (interviews or field tests) to find out how users interact with similar services. Then I would do a deep research on the market leaders to find out what brought them to the top positions in the market. Only after that would I make an assessment of my product features or services.

Demonstrate initiative by taking on leadership roles, spearheading projects, or proposing innovative solutions to challenges in the payment systems field

I would do a SWOT analysis and customer development (interviews or field tests) to find out how users interact with similar services. After that would I make an assessment of my product features or services against the result of my research.

There is really no such thing as being overshadowed. Unfortunately that focuses on ego and forgoes the more important aspect of learning with others. Particularly in Payments there will always be people who know more than you and others that know less. Focus on your own growth and helping others and you will realize there is enough room for all of us to shine. After all, we are not here to see through people, we are here to see people through. Always be hungry to learn and teach and the rest will take care of itself.

The payment industry evolves rapidly. Stay ahead by mastering emerging technologies like blockchain, AI in fraud detection, or open banking APIs etc. One can also write articles, speak at industry events, or lead internal workshops. Visibility boosts your professional standing.

It pays to use local UI and UX designers who are more familiar with the local (cultural) peculiarities of the market to avoid costly mistakes.

If colleagues are overshadowing you in Payment Systems, self-assess to identify strengths and areas for growth. Build positive relationships, differentiate yourself with unique skills, and communicate your value clearly. Seek mentorship, take initiative on projects, and ensure visibility in team activities. If overshadowing persists, address concerns directly. By focusing on improvement, relationships, and advocacy, you can assert your presence and contributions effectively in Payment Systems.

Ensure that your contributions align with the broader goals and objectives of your organization. This alignment can make your efforts more impactful and noticeable. As an example, if your company is focusing on expanding into new markets, contribute by researching regulatory requirements and suggesting strategies for market entry. Consider mentoring. Mentoring newcomers demonstrates leadership and deepens your own understanding.