Dawing a parallel: Part 2

In part 1 of this series, I shared how I learned skills on the job in my first job at Oberoi Hotels and Resorts, and how it is still the best way to learn in my current role at Flipkart.

My second job was with Taj Hotels, where I joined Taj Palace, New Delhi as a Housekeeping Supervisor. This was my first time in a supervisory role, where I was responsible for one floor (about 50 odd rooms), with four room attendants. During my first day, interacting with the team members I found out that they have been doing this job for longer than I was even born :)

Any guesses about who taught me the role of the supervisor? It was them, the most experienced room attendants, who were also 'certified self-checkers'. They were so good at their work, that they could clean the room and mark it as inspected without the supervisor or a manager checking their room. They also shared the tricks, which manager checks what and how to make sure things are done and I get noticed. They supported me to be successful at my job.

Bringing the focus to Flipkart. We employ a large number of blue-collar employees who perform all critical tasks. Some of them are excellent and are a go-to resource for new hires, including their supervisors and managers. They handle issues and exceptions so well and are critical to the role.

This is where I draw my second parallel. Irrespective of the industries and role, you will always have people who are subject matter experts. They are an essential part of the organization and act as a backbone.

Helping and strengthening others to succeed.