1 – Could you please give a brief introduction to our viewers about yourself and your role within your organization?
ANSWER:
My name is Ayaz Effendi, and I am the Director of Software Services at Digital Dividend, a leading software company. In my role, I manage a team of over 60 highly skilled software consultants, ensuring they have the guidance and resources necessary to deliver exceptional results for our clients. My focus is on fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence to drive customer success and maintain our company’s high standards in the software industry.
2 – Can you share a bit about your educational background and what led you to choose this particular field of study?
ANSWER:
I completed my BS in Computer Science from SZABIST, a prestigious university in Pakistan. Later, I moved to London to pursue my MS in Information Management from Queen Mary University of London, which was a pivotal phase in both my personal and professional life. During this time, I worked a couple of blue-collar jobs due to restrictions limiting me to only 20 hours of work per week while studying. These jobs, from mopping floors to managing aisles, were instrumental in teaching me valuable lessons about customer service. I learned how to communicate effectively, engage with customers politely, and keep a smile on my face even during challenging times—skills that continue to serve me well today.
My passion for technology, however, dates back to my childhood when my father bought a 286 computer in 1992, a rare and exciting gadget at the time. My siblings and I spent hours on it, learning, playing, and eventually developing simple applications in GW-BASIC Language. This early fascination with technology became the very reason for selecting this field of study and a foundation of my career. I consider myself fortunate to have turned my childhood hobby into my profession.
3 – What advice would you give to young professionals who are just starting their careers?
ANSWER:
This is an important message, and I’d like to use your platform to advise the younger generation: always keep a smile on your face, greet your team and managers when you arrive at work, stay humble and polite, continuously learn and improve, and above all, build strong relationships!
Take the initiative to develop your communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Importantly, look for chances to lead small projects, collaborate with your peers, and learn from those around you. I have noticed throughout my career that those who followed these guidelines have become leaders.
Embrace a leadership mindset. Believe in your ability to make a difference, regardless of your current role. Develop a growth mindset that welcomes challenges and views setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow. Take responsibility for your work, show resilience, and aim for excellence in everything you do. Remember, your mindset shapes your actions, and your actions create the path to leadership. However, always remember, leadership isn’t just about giving orders—it’s about inspiring, guiding, and empowering others.
