Keeping the professional and personal life mutually exclusive helps
Published on : Tuesday 08-03-2022
Namrata Modi, Assistant Manager – Instrumentation Department, Aker Solutions.
What was the inspiration that prompted you to pursue this career path?
My father worked in the textile industry and was technically skilled, but he never received a formal technical degree. In addition, I used to love and assist my father with all of his technological work at home. This aroused my interest in technological disciplines and as a result, I opted to pursue a career in engineering while also fulfilling my father's desire of obtaining a formal degree.
Can you recall your early days – say the first few days at work – and anything you would like to mention about that?
1. I was familiar with business operations, but I was unfamiliar with MNC culture and worried about how I would adjust to it.
2. Nonetheless, the organisational climate and my co-workers were really welcoming, and the transition to a new workplace went incredibly well.
For a woman, it is a matter of finding the right balance between the jobs and managing the home – how do you manage this?
It's not simple to strike a balance between job and family life. There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all solution. Every individual and family must find unique answers to their problems based on their own choices and requirements.
For me keeping the professional and personal life mutually exclusive helps in maintaining the balance.
What challenges (or privileges) do women stereotypically face, based on their gender?
Gender biases and preconceptions are common in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) sectors, which can make it difficult to attract, retain, and advance girls and women in STEM courses and jobs. However, a recent study found that India is well ahead of other countries in this regard, which is a positive indicator.
However, the stereotypes commonly held are that the women are judged more on their personality and looks, are viewed as less credible than their male counterparts, and are assumed to be 'warm and nurturing,' incapable of making crucial decisions.
Have you ever missed a career opportunity or promotion due to the gender?
No, I've never had a situation like this in my professional life. I've heard a lot about gender discrimination, but I believe your work should speak for itself, and your discipline, grit, and dedication, as well as your willingness to take on challenges, will help you advance in your profession.
Are workplaces today more sensitive to gender issues than say, a decade ago?
Yes, there has been a significant improvement in recent years; corporations have implemented policies and procedures to ensure that no one is discriminated against because of their gender. The numbers, however, do not reflect sufficient change at the systemic level. Despite the fact that more women are graduating and entering the industry, there is still a high rate of attrition. Women still make up a small percentage of senior management positions. Despite the presence of numerous prominent female executives in technology companies, overall rates are low.
Which women's 'cause' needs to be challenged and changed, first?
There are numerous causes that could be discussed here, but there is one that I feel inclined to mention. Women's lack of representation in key positions continues to stymie progress on issues ranging from pay to humanitarian aid to all kinds of discrimination. The sooner we see that a lack of women in positions of leadership holds back not only women, but everyone, the sooner we will be able to move society ahead.
Women should also be challenged and given greater opportunities to take on critical positions, which will help them recognise their own potential. Women, on the other hand, must be assertive and confident in the responsibilities that have been handed to them.
Are there areas at work that still restrict women when it comes to leadership role?
No, the workplace is highly fluid, and women are given equal opportunities in any function that the company has. My bosses and co-workers have been extremely supportive at the current organisation.
What women-related myths or taboos need to be broken?
That woman is unable to deal with stress and is preoccupied with family commitments, which prevents her from providing her whole focus to the job.
Some believe that women are ruled by their emotions, especially in stressful situations, and that this interferes with their capacity to make logical decisions. Also, women, according to popular belief, lack confidence.
Women want to work and lead, and we should let them to.
Do you have a mentor or a role model? If yes, you may state briefly how it inspired you.
My parents are true inspiration to me because they taught me to always work hard and never give up when faced with challenges in life. Always be strong and work hard to achieve all of your objectives!
Throughout my career, I've had several mentors, and the most amazing thing I've learned is how to deal with people.
The ability to listen and communicate, as well as motivate and direct people to maintain workplace efficiency, is a skill that I value highly.
What would be your message to the youth who are just starting their career?
The value of perseverance cannot be emphasised. Work diligently while remaining unconcerned about the outcome. Give it your all; everything you do has meaning in life, and this is how you learn, contributing to your whole experience, which will benefit you in the long run.
Employers frequently seek individuals who will help a company or organisation succeed and take an active role in ensuring company success through their own professional development efforts and dedication. Dedication, initiative, and commitment are important because employers frequently seek individuals who will help a company or organisation succeed and take an active role in ensuring company success through their own professional development efforts and dedication.
Respecting your commitments at work can aid in the development of strong and long-lasting professional relationships, which will lead to increased working satisfaction and opportunities for advancement.
Describe yourself or your aspirations, dreams in 3 words.
Integrity. Resilient. Conscientious.
A quote that I like – “Shoot for the moon, and if you miss...you will still be standing among the stars”.
Namrata Modi is Assistant Manager – Instrumentation Department, Aker Solutions. Currently, she is overseeing a team that executes Oil & Gas projects primarily, including the Electrification/Maintenance/Modifications of Norwegian offshore installations. An engineer with a degree in Instrumentation and Controls from Mumbai University, Namrata has over 15 years of experience in the oil and gas industry. Engineering, Project Management, and Project Execution are among her current responsibilities. Namrata enjoys reading books, listening to music, and spending time with friends in her leisure time.