The success of an organization depends on its employees’ ability to adapt to a dynamic business landscape characterized by technological advancements and industry shifts. How can individuals make the most of these changes to not only rise above them but also thrive in their chosen fields?
Take a look at how employees at The KPI Institute accomplish their goals. They come from diverse backgrounds, each contributing a wealth of expertise to their roles while remaining committed to continuing their personal and professional development.
This is why The KPI Institute (TKI) People Awards series features the employees and teams recognized by TKI for going above and beyond expectations, excelling as team players, and creating a tremendous impact on the company.
In this article, let’s get to know the TKI Employee of the Month (EOM) awardees for the second quarter of 2023.
Month of April 2023
Paolo Orduña
Senior Editor
TKI Publishing Department
TKI: What does receiving the Employee of the Month award mean to you?
Paolo: Receiving the EOM award proves I belong here.
TKI: What is your favorite accomplishment so far at TKI?
Paolo: I am proud of the Writer Training Program that I developed and facilitated.
TKI: When you are faced with a challenge at work, how do you find a solution?
Paolo: I try to look at challenges or problems from different perspectives to find a solution that best fits the context of the current issue.
TKI: What would be the three main career lessons that you have learned thus far?
Paolo:
1. When you fail, it is important to note where and how you fell short. Failing by itself won’t bring any lessons. But how you frame failure and what you can take away from the experience that dictates whether or not you learn something.
2. Being open to feedback means having to swallow your pride. You cannot get better if you do not believe there is room for improvement.
3. Never be afraid to ask for help. As cliché as it sounds, there really is no “I” in “team.”
Cynthia Claudia
Senior Editor and Quality Assurance Specialist
Institute for Life Management Science (ILMS)
TKI: What does receiving the Employee of the Month award mean to you?
Cynthia: I am grateful to receive the EOM award for April 2023. It means a lot to me because it shows that the people around me acknowledged and appreciated my work and capability. Moreover, it also serves as a reminder of my work’s impact on the people around me as well as on the overall success of the organization. It motivates me to continue giving my best to contribute to the organization’s shared goals.
TKI: What is your favorite accomplishment so far at TKI?
Cynthia: The opportunity of getting promoted from Assistant Editor to Senior Editor and Quality Assurance Specialist. I believe this accomplishment would not have been possible without the constant support and feedback from the people I work closely with. I might be going out of my comfort zone when dealing with new stuff but I am eager to embrace new challenges and learning opportunities, leveraging my strengths and capability to make a meaningful contribution.
TKI: When you are faced with a challenge at work, how do you find a solution?
Cynthia: When faced with a challenge at work, I try to gather as much information as possible. I gather information independently or by reaching out to my seniors, who I believe can brainstorm a solution to the particular challenge. The information-gathering process will help me to devise solutions. From there, I can decide the best solution to the challenge. I believe it is important not to be passive when facing challenges at work, especially in a remote environment.
TKI: What would be the three main career lessons that you have learned thus far?
Cynthia:
1. Communication: Constant communication with colleagues is essential in solving problems, aligning expectations, and building trust in the working environment.
2. Agility: Be agile to adapt quickly to any changes in the working environment and lead changes productively and cost-effectively without compromising the quality of our output.
3. Continuous improvement: Always be hungry to learn something new and improve yourself. Learning is a continuous journey that helps you improve, so embrace any opportunity to learn something new.
Raden Trizaldi
Senior Researcher
Applied Management System Institute (AMSI)
TKI: What does receiving the Employee of the Month award mean to you?
Raden: Receiving the EOM award means a great deal to me. It validates my hard work, dedication, and support provided to my team and the organization. It signifies that my efforts have been noticed and appreciated, which is extremely motivating. This award serves as a reminder that my contributions had a positive impact and encourages me to continue striving for excellence in my work.
TKI: What’s your favorite accomplishment so far at TKI?
Raden: Choosing just one favorite accomplishment at TKI is difficult as I have been fortunate to work on various meaningful projects. However, if I highlight one, it would be the development of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Business Productivity course. This accomplishment is remarkable to me because it allowed me to utilize my expertise in AI and allowed me to contribute to my team members’ growth and development. Witnessing the impact of the course on their learning and seeing them excel in their roles has been immensely fulfilling.
TKI: When you’re faced with a challenge at work, how do you find a solution?
Raden: When faced with a challenge at work, my approach to finding a solution involves several steps. First, I thoroughly analyze the problem and understand its underlying causes. Then, I research and gather relevant information to gain a comprehensive understanding of the issue. Next, I brainstorm potential solutions, considering both conventional and innovative approaches.
Moreover, I engage in open discussions and seek input from my colleagues, leveraging their expertise and perspectives. Once I have explored various options, I assess each solution’s feasibility, risks, and potential outcomes. Finally, I make an informed decision, considering the resources available and the desired outcomes, and proceed with implementing the chosen solution. Throughout the process, I remain adaptable, open-minded, and persistent, always ready to adjust my approach if necessary.
TKI: What would be the three main career lessons that you have learned thus far?
Raden: The three main career lessons I have learned thus far are:
- Collaboration and teamwork are essential for success. Embracing a collaborative mindset and fostering strong relationships with colleagues not only enhances productivity but also promotes a positive and supportive work environment.
- Continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends and advancements are crucial. Embracing a growth mindset and seeking knowledge and skill expansion have fueled my professional development.
- Embracing challenges and stepping out of the comfort zone is where real growth happens. By taking on tasks and roles that stretch my capabilities, I have learned and achieved more than I initially thought possible. Embracing challenges with a positive attitude and perseverance has been essential to overcoming obstacles and reaching new heights in my career. Once again, I am genuinely grateful for being recognized as the Employee of the Month. This award motivates me to continue contributing to the success of AMSI and TKI, inspiring and supporting my colleagues to reach their full potential.
Syahrul Ghifari
Graphic Designer
Biodigy
TKI: What do you want to do when you are not working? What are your hobbies, passions, or involvement in your community?
Syahrul: When I am not working, I have several hobbies and interests I enjoy doing. One of my main passions is learning. I love to immerse myself in books or videos, especially about design, technology, and web development. I am also quite passionate about outdoor activities like jogging. Exploring nature and spending time outdoors rejuvenates and allows me to disconnect from the digital world, even for just a while. Additionally, I enjoy outdoor photography, capturing the beauty of landscapes and wildlife.
Overall, my hobbies help me maintain a balanced and fulfilling life outside of work.
TKI: What do you appreciate most about working at The KPI Institute?
Syahrul: Firstly, I am delighted to return as an employee of the month. What I appreciate most about working at TKI is that it provides me with a platform for learning and self-improvement. Additionally, the efficiency of remote work, which is uncommon in Indonesia, serves as an advantage, enabling me to be more productive, manage my time effectively, and collaborate with helpful colleagues.
TKI: What are you looking forward to in terms of your new projects, collaborations, and role here at TKI?
Syahrul: I hope to continue earning trust to take on diverse tasks, enabling me to complete projects and acquire new skills.
Month of May 2023
Andreea Vintila
Junior Management Consultant
TKI
TKI: What does receiving the Employee of the Month award mean to you?
Andreea: Receiving the EOM award is a fantastic accomplishment and a meaningful appreciation of my hard work and victories on the job. Knowing that my coworkers and superiors have seen and acknowledged my efforts gives me a sense of validation. This honor motivates me to continue functioning at a high level and to aim for even greater success.
TKI: What’s your favorite accomplishment so far at TKI?
Andreea: A significant achievement I take pride in is my contribution to authoring multiple articles for both the printed and online editions of the Performance Magazine.
TKI: When you’re faced with a challenge at work, how do you find a solution?
Andreea: Typically, when confronted with work challenges, I proactively seek to devise independent solutions, drawing upon my professional expertise. Additionally, I engage in collaborative brainstorming sessions with trusted colleagues to explore diverse perspectives. To ensure an optimal outcome, I also seek the guidance and input of my supervisor to validate and refine the proposed solution.
TKI: What would be the three main career lessons that you have learned thus far?
Andreea: The three main career lessons I learned so far in my stay in TKI are (1) prioritizing work-life balance, (2) embracing challenges and setbacks as learning opportunities, and (3) communicating effectively.
Nouran Essam Ali
Graphic Designer
Biodigy
TKI: What does receiving the Employee of the Month award mean to you?
Nouran: This award makes me feel recognized and appreciated by my colleagues for all my work these past few months.
TKI: What’s your favorite accomplishment so far at TKI?
Nouran: It should be the PERFORMANCE Magazine Issue 26, 2023 – Data Analytics edition.
TKI: When you’re faced with a challenge at work, how do you find a solution?
Nouran: I face my challenge at work by completing the project quickly, breaking the challenge into smaller tasks, maimaintaining positive self-image, and staying passionate.
TKI: What would be the three main career lessons that you have learned thus far?
Nouran:
- time management
- focus on developing and using your strengths
- staying committed to work
Layla Woodard
Marketing Manager
Functional Areas Enablement Institute
TKI: What does receiving the Employee of the Month award mean to you?
Layla: The EOM award means a lot since it shows my colleagues’ trust in me and my commitment to the job. I appreciate how they see my work ethic and no deed (small or big) goes unnoticed.
TKI: What’s your favorite accomplishment so far at TKI?
Layla: Finalizing the name of FAEI, formerly AMSI, and launching its first product was a long process but completely worth it. Nothing feels better than seeing your hard work come to life!
TKI: When you’re faced with a challenge at work, how do you find a solution?
Layla: I always try to distance myself from the problem and challenge, so I look at things from a different lens than when I am in the eye of the hurricane. To solve any issue, you must be as empathetic as possible in understanding all perspectives. In addition, I ask my colleagues what would be the best course of action in any challenge because sometimes someone outside of the situation is the one who can provide insight or enlighten you on the solution.
TKI: What would be the three main career lessons that you have learned thus far?
Layla:
- Everyone learns differently, so be patient with people.
- Sometimes, you have to step away from a problem to solve it.
- Taking initiative is one of the best things you can do.
Kathina Aninditya
Junior Framework Program Coordinator
ILMS
TKI: What do you want to do when you are not working? What are your hobbies, passions, or involvement in your community?
Kathina: On some days, I just want to rest at home. Then, sometimes, I want to go outside and spontaneously go somewhere with my family or friends. Recently, I have been setting aside a day each month to try new activities with my friends. For example, we learned to make pottery, created batik (an Indonesian technique of wax-resist dyeing applied to the whole cloth), concocted tisane, and garden using permaculture principles.
TKI: What do you appreciate most about working at The KPI Institute?
Kathina: I am genuinely grateful for the remarkable support from both ILMS team members, including the research team and our colleagues at Life Management Science Labs (LMSL). It brings me immense joy to be part of a group that faces challenges and triumphs together. Although there were some disagreements, which are natural in any dynamic environment, we always overcame them together. During these moments, we truly connect, fostering openness and collaboration that is integral to our success as a team. I genuinely feel fortunate to be surrounded by such a talented and dedicated group, and it fuels my excitement to continue working with them and achieving our collective goals.
TKI: What are you looking forward to in terms of your new projects, collaborations, and role here at TKI?
Kathina: As I start my new role at ILMS, I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to gain valuable experience in management. I am not only coordinating junior researchers but also keen to actively participate in other projects involving cross-functional collaboration with teams such as publishing and marketing. However, I would like to take on smaller projects like improvement plans for our products or other initiatives alongside my colleagues.
Furthermore, I look forward to delving into primary research again, a pursuit that has been close to my heart for some time. The prospect of conducting experiments and employing statistical analysis excites me greatly, and I am truly eager to engage in this fulfilling aspect of the role. As I envision the future possibilities, my enthusiasm grows, and I am genuinely thrilled to embrace the challenges and opportunities that await me.
Brian Kiprop
Research Analyst
TREFORIN
TKI: What does receiving the Employee of the Month award mean to you?
Brian: Being honored with the EOM award recognizes my dedication and significant contributions to achieving the company’s project goals. I collaborated with the Applied Management System Institute (AMSI) to develop an innovative AI professional course, which involved focused teamwork and meeting tight deadlines. I willingly went above and beyond, working extra hours to ensure success. Reflecting upon this transformative experience, I realize how it has propelled my professional growth and empowered me to cultivate an environment where colleagues thrive and excel, fostering a culture of collective success.
TKI: What’s your favorite accomplishment so far at TKI?
Brian: Working on the new AI course has been a significant highlight of my year. It has been immensely rewarding to contribute to developing this course, which aims to enhance professionals’ understanding of AI for business productivity concepts and their practical application across various business functions. I am excited about its potential impact on enriching knowledge and empowering organizations and individuals in the rapidly evolving field of AI.
TKI: When you’re faced with a challenge at work, how do you find a solution?
Brian: When faced with a challenge at work, I focus on understanding the issue by gathering information and seeking input from colleagues. This enables me to assess potential solutions and prioritize successful ones effectively. Reflecting on outcomes also helps me learn and improve.
TKI: What would be the three main career lessons that you have learned thus far?
Brian:
1. Embrace versatility and adaptability – working across multiple units and taking various roles within the company has taught me the importance of being adaptable and open to new challenges.
2. Foster a growth mindset – maintaining a growth mindset has been pivotal in my career development. By staying humble and curious, I have approached each task and interaction as an opportunity to learn and grow.
3. Take ownership of your professional growth – seeking opportunities to expand my knowledge, acquire new skills, and stay current with industry trends is vital to remain competitive and advancing in my career.
