How having a mentor helped me in my personal development? 

This audio was created using Microsoft Azure Speech Services

by Harshitha A Kumar, mentee of the second cohort of Schneider Electric’s partnership with the Women in AI mentorship program

From the last meeting with my mentor, I noted: “Procrastination often stems from negative self-talk that holds us back from taking action. Challenge these thoughts by: 

• asking friends for advice, 

• replace the negativity with a positive message, 

• break down big tasks into smaller, manageable steps, 

• and finally, be kind to yourself throughout the process.”  

My first external mentoring program 

At first, I was not sure if I should join the program. I heard recommendations, and I read the blog about Maud’s experience. However, I wasn’t sure if the mentorship program wouldn’t simply disrupt my work schedule and become a burden. Preoccupied by daily tasks, I was not convinced I would find time for another additional “activity” at work.  

Then, I attended the Women in Digital event held in Bangalore, where the keynotes, live discussions, and career insights sessions made me realize I am limiting myself to my current role and have untapped potential to reach beyond. At that moment I realized: “I need guidance. I need to finally broaden my horizons!”. The next day I was on my way to sign up for the next cohort of the women in AI mentorship program to finally make a change. Today I’m proud of this step and want to share how this decision helped me in my personal development. 

The role of a mentor 

Indeed, there are already plenty of online materials for personal technical development. But without having the right direction, soft skills, and network, all that hard work may not be enough. I was lucky to have Caroline, who was not in the AI field as a mentor, but over the past few months, played a vital role in helping me break into it. She showed me a way to face up to my biggest critic – myself and become comfortable when sharing my voice. She brought a new perspective on my work life and explained how I could change my attitude towards it. Let me tell you how it all happened and what exactly was Caroline’s role in that. 
 

First, I must highlight that being in the technical field made me a bit narrow-minded about certain experiences. During the first meeting with Caroline, we both decided that making new connections, networking and overall improvement of my soft skills was one thing to do. The other one, way harder and complicated, was about starting to believe in myself and eventually having the courage to become more visible and open to opportunities and positive thinking.  

With Caroline, we have used different tools and practices throughout the process: 

1. Starting with the so-called “30 Seconds Introduction Plan” to work on my presentation at the events,  

2. Being more visible and active on LinkedIn, 

3. Making regular connections virtually or through coffee meetups in the office, to get a fresh perspective on data and AI. 

While my conversations with Caroline have been few, their impact is undeniable. The valuable lessons and insights she shared will undoubtedly benefit my career in the long run. 

Why is mentorship important? 

I met with Caroline once a month to discuss my progress and think about possible next steps. Every time she gave me a proper set of tools, I could start implementing them the next day – not only at work but in my private life too. Why do I believe mentorship is important? I think at a certain time of your career it’s good to have someone look at it from a new angle – to pinpoint areas we might have pushed under the rug labeling it “unnecessary” or sometimes even “uncertain”. It’s good to ask for this, no matter if you are in a junior or senior position. A new pair of eyes and a fresh perspective will help you keep your head open. Now, I appreciate even more the concept of mentorship and see how valuable it is.  

Women in AI mentorship program

Mentorships like Women in AI program bring unique opportunities to work on personal development. They allow you to work with someone outside your team and your domain. They inspire you and motivate you to pursue your career in STEM. They help you to become more confident at your work. Personally, I see how having a mentor has made me more aware, and more open to new experiences.  

I hope and count on new, great mentorship stories to hear, so if you’d like to connect, and share yours, reach out to me on LinkedIn! 

If you wish to know more about embracing innovation and diversity at Schneider Electric, click here to discover our initiatives and commitments to gender equity and inclusion of all.