What Type Of Person Thrives In Tech, According To A Google Risk And Compliance Manager
Aditya, a Risk & Compliance Manager at Google, highlights the importance of "motivation and drive" combined with "a healthy level of professional skepticism" for success in the industry. The role requires resilience to overcome challenges and effective communication to navigate stakeholder interactions, ultimately adding value by identifying and mitigating potential risks, as exemplified by instances where Aditya's work prevented negative outcomes.
Communication, Problem-Solving, Resilience, Professional Skepticism, Motivation
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Aditya Ravikumar
Risk & Compliance Manager
UC Irvine, 2014
UCLA Andersson, MBA (in progress)
Economics
Technology
Legal
None Applicable
Video Highlights
1. A strong work ethic and resilience are crucial for success in risk management, as professionals often face uphill battles and challenges.
2. Effective communication is vital in this field, as risk managers need to clearly convey the purpose and importance of their work to various stakeholders.
3. A healthy dose of professional skepticism is necessary to identify potential issues and ensure compliance, even when dealing with well-intentioned individuals who may unintentionally cut corners under pressure.
Transcript
How would you describe people who typically thrive in this industry?
That's a great question. I think it's a combination of having the right motivation and drive, and a healthy level of professional skepticism.
It can be challenging to speak with stakeholders who are questioning your processes, why things are required, or why they take so long. This is where effective communication is critical. Often, those conversations can be shorter and friendlier if you clearly communicate the purpose of your work and why it's necessary.
I would say having that motivation and drive is key, because there will be times when it feels like an uphill battle. Getting past certain challenges is super rewarding in the end.
You hear people say, "I'm so glad we looked deeper into this," because if they hadn't, things could have gone sideways. Or, "I'm so glad you taught me about these potential red flags." Someone might have thought a consultant was a great match, but upon learning more, realized it wasn't the right fit.
When you truly add value and people recognize it, it makes it all worthwhile. You have to be a resilient person to face these challenges head-on.
If you have the right motivation and drive, along with a healthy level of professional skepticism, that's essential. There are many good people who aren't trying to bend the rules, but in the name of urgency, they might cut corners.
It's important to read the room, see where someone might be bending the truth slightly, and ask the right questions to get the information you need and provide the necessary advice.