Isn’t it funny how time works? It can feel slow or fast, long or short, depending on how we perceive it. When I look back at the last 11 years, I feel so much has happened in such a short time, yet I also feel I have done so little in all these years. The past 11 years have been a roller coaster for me, involving a career break and embracing motherhood—switching my identity from "Ms. Ayushi Verma" to "Reyansh’s Mumma." This identity shift brought about many changes in my personality. Being "Reyansh’s Mumma" made me more responsible, stronger, empathetic, and, most importantly, taught me to adapt to changes quickly.
But life constantly throws surprises and challenges my way. I faced the challenge of becoming financially independent and being someone my son could look up to in every sense. It was time for another identity switch! It was time to look for a job, and that’s when a true blessing entered my life—FocusU.
The interactions I had during the selection process for the role of Client Advisor gave me a sense of the values and culture this company holds. Every round of conversation treated me as a person, not just a resource. I felt a sense of safety in opening up about my situation. From that day, I knew that if I made it through and became a part of this organization, I would give my 100%—or even more. When I accepted my offer letter, I was warmly welcomed into a new “family.”
13th June, 2022
On my first day at work, I was nervous, excited, and directionless. With a lot of butterflies in my stomach, I sent that first message to Rakesh (Co-founder), who introduced me to my buddies, Vidya (Lead- Client Experience) and Vidisha (Client Advisory Manager). The level of comfort I felt with my very first interaction with them immediately took away all my anxiety, and I began looking forward to my exciting journey ahead.
I was formally welcomed into the organization at the AFC (All Faces Call is a company-wide virtual meeting held every Tuesday) the next day, and I was overwhelmed by the attention and love I received. It was one of those moments where I felt I must have done something right to have all of this in my life. Each member was full of care, humility, and respect. That AFC will forever be one of the most special moments of my life.
I was introduced to the formal onboarding process on EduFlow (a digital platform that simplifies and organizes learning experiences for teams and organizations). My first brief browse through it was scary! The exact thought in my head was, “How will I ever do this? It’s been such a long time since I have undergone any training. And all these modules are followed by short connects with different people; how will I interact with them... I don’t know anything at all.”
But I dived right into it. I soon realized how well-structured the entire process was. The modules included videos that provided a lot of information, followed by fun quizzes. I loved watching them at my own pace, taking notes, and later answering the quiz questions. Each "mark as complete" was reflected by a green tick, giving me a small sense of achievement.
The short connects that I was initially afraid of turned out to be the best part of this process. Learning to block someone’s calendar and getting a chance to ask them questions or share my thoughts was an amazing way to get to know so many people. Everyone was so welcoming and patient with me and my doubts. It was like getting different flavors in one big thali! Each connect gave me confidence, valuable tips, encouragement, and infinite warmth.
Rakesh and Arun explained the company to me and introduced me to CHOPS (Our core values are Care, Humility, Ownership, Passion, and Safety). Smita gave me clarity about my role and the function. Antara, being the wonderful person she is, assured me that I have help and support throughout my journey. Girish, patient with my lack of knowledge in finance, explained everything to me in layman’s terms. Dr. Rajshri, truly a vast ocean of knowledge, helped me understand our storified digital products, and future developments. Glen shared his amazing experiences with me after I completed the engagement module. Strang gave me insightful tips on being a good client advisor and shared his valuable and interesting experiences with clients. Ashwan connected with me all the way from Mauritius and explained the work culture there. Smriti, passionate about MasterClass, was also welcoming to suggestions about her category. Tarika shared her exciting marketing plans. Sanchit shared the most hilarious workshop stories and encouraged me to attend a Face-to-Face workshop to feel the pulse. Anku introduced me to the tracker and explained the importance of every step in the process. Rohit helped me clear my doubts about Online Business Simulation and the learning category and understand the importance of simulation. Finally, Pragya always checked in to see if I was smoothly sailing through the onboarding process.
(Curious to know who they are? Meet our team here!)
Recalling all of this brings a smile to my face. I realize how different each one of them is in personality and role, yet how similar and connected they all are to one vision and set of values.
So, speaking of identity switching, today I have a new identity: Reyansh’s Mumma is also a Client Advisory Manager at FocusU. This new identity comes with new responsibilities and challenges. Each day at work is filled with new learnings, experiences, and struggles. But at the end of the day, there is a feeling of contentment.
Thank you, FocusU, for guiding me toward shaping the new me, for making learning fun and exciting, for believing in me and giving me a new identity, and, above all, for making me a part of this new family!
Penned by Ayushi Verma, Client Advisory Manager