The Power of Being Imperfect in the Ever-Changing ICT World

Embarking on my ICT journey 23 years ago, I stepped into a world of endless evolution and learning. As a beginner at 21, my knowledge of computers was rudimentary, sparked by curiosity and a partner’s guidance. My foray into formal education through a diploma in IT quickly transitioned into a government IT traineeship, marking the start of my two-decade-long career.

Contrary to popular belief, perfection isn’t a prerequisite in the ICT sector. This industry’s dynamic nature presents unique challenges, fostering personal growth and adaptability. Over the years, my roles have varied, from contracting with major organizations in Brisbane and Melbourne to navigating diverse systems and processes. This path has honed my skills in hardware, software, networking, and various operating systems.

Now, with a decade in ICT project management, I’ve overseen IT, business transformation, and network infrastructure projects. Currently, I’m delving into the specialized world of Adobe cloud and campaign management, a field that was new to me when I joined my current company.

This role reshaped my perspective on knowledge and perfection. Realizing the limits of my expertise in this niche, I embraced collaboration and open communication. Asking for help became my strategy, and proactive engagement with my managers and team became my strength. My approach shifted from solo problem-solving to collective brainstorming and risk mitigation.

My manager recently commended my receptiveness to feedback and my adaptability. Collaboration not only aids my growth but also enriches my team and clients. In an industry that never stops evolving, clinging to the notion of perfection is futile. It’s through asking questions, seeking help, and fostering transparent communication that we keep pace with change.

Here’s what I’ve learned:

1. Embrace the unknown. It’s okay not to have all the answers.
2. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
3. Early escalation of issues can lead to quicker resolution.
4. Open dialogue and differing perspectives can transform challenges into opportunities.
5. Seniority doesn’t equate to having all the answers. Embrace continuous learning.

As I share my journey on ‘Dare To Be You’, I hope to inspire you to let go of the pursuit of perfection. Remember, in our imperfections lie our greatest opportunities for growth and innovation. Let’s navigate this evolving landscape together, unafraid to ask, learn, and evolve.©

Copyright © 2022 Lynette Diehm.

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