Lab Top – 7 Questions with Dr. Juliet Shali Shambi

1. Please explain: What is your concrete job?

I bring SAP Human Experience Management Solution capabilities through storytelling to life. As a customer solution advisor, I enjoy collaborating and providing subject expertise and insights on people processes. Ultimately, my goal is to help organizations redefine their employee experiences, drive business transformation and thrive in the experience economy with SAP Solutions. As much as my role is around technology, deep down I am a people person. I am passionate about helping people unlock their potential and grow in their career paths.

2. Your initial spark to enter this industry?

It was purely by chance. During my master studies at Hochschule Heilbronn, Germany, a student colleague introduced me to SAP. Coming from a business background, I wasn’t clear about how I will contribute to the organization, but I made the decision to apply for a student position. This was the beginning of an exciting and fulfilling career at SAP. Looking back, I am glad I took a leap of faith by clicking on the “apply” button!

3. Your most exciting project to date?

The two things that have shaped my purpose over the years: people and growth of opportunities in Africa. After 12 years in Europe, I packed my bags and moved back to my home country of Kenya. I was keen on contributing to the growth of businesses and increase of the SAP footprint in Africa.

Simultaneously, I was active in supporting SAP Young professionals to join our ecosystem by providing access to opportunities with partners and SAP. It’s been 8 years, and I can openly say that nothing beats the feeling of mentoring young professionals and helping them get ahead in their tech career journey on the continent. To win, we need to move forward together, and this is what SAP embodies with the statement: “to help the world run better and improve people's lives.”

4. Top skills that anyone who wants to work in Tech needs?

Today, people buy things or are loyal to brands simply because of the experience. We are in the economy of experience where our actions are based on what makes me happy and what is memorable. To be successful, organizations need to create products and services that provide memorable experiences. Aside from technical skills, I believe storytelling, listening, and communication skills are paramount to have an innate understanding of the evolving customer and business needs.

5. What advice would you give to young professionals starting in tech?

Be curious.

Today, the technology space is advancing at new levels of highs and popularity. To keep up and ride the wave of technology, skills are what will matter most. Jobs in the tech space are on high demand, and this means that you need to take ownership of your career growth by learning new skills to standout and advance in your career. You can learn remotely for free, or nearly for free, from the comfort of your home. If you are not learning, you are not growing and challenging yourself.

Build meaningful connections.

Prioritize your contacts and network. It is important and your responsibility to make sure that people know you; Who you choose will be critical to the growth of your career.  You can find ways to keep in touch. For example, by raising your hand and asking to work with them. Networking is not only important at the job search level but also once you have a job. Over the years, networking has proven to be an invaluable tool in career advancement and receiving opportunities.

6. Your biggest role model?

Shonda Rhimes – in her words, I have learnt to “dance it out, stand in the sun and be my own person.”

7. People or media to follow?

Dr. Patricia Murugami, Mel Robbins, and Mallory Ervin.