Exploring Your Potential

Vaijayanti Deshpande

By Erica Rascón on Feb 25, 2019 in Global, People

Vaijayanti Deshpande, head of HR, finance and administration at Yardi, leads human resources, recruitment, finance and facilities at Yardi Pune. Though she has embraced the responsibilities like a fish to water, it didn’t start out that way. Deshpande had to explore unknown paths to unlock her capabilities as a leader.

The Big Switch

Deshpande did not begin her career in human resources. For 14 years, she worked as a financial controller with a software services company.

“I am a chartered accountant by qualification, and I had always worked in the finance domain before joining Yardi,” said Deshpande. “On being offered a role in HR at Yardi Pune, I was skeptical initially.”

Despite her uncertainty, she accepted the role. Seven years later, she loves that she made the switch. The challenges of the transition encouraged her to expand her skillsets.

“Sometimes in life, you realize your potential only when you take the unexplored paths,” reflected Deshpande. “From accepting this role, to handling the employee sensitivity part of it, to actually enjoying it today—it’s been a wonderful journey!”

With the support of her team, Deshpande emerged as an even stronger and more capable leader. “I received a lot of support from my manager and the people reporting to me. I feel working at Yardi has made me a kinder person. Today, I have a different flavor to my personality. It has broadened my horizons, and I look forward to coming to work every day.”

She added with a smile, “The fact that the office is a mere 2.5 km from my residence also makes it easy.”

Staying Balanced

Deshpande’s day-to-day goals at Yardi center upon compliance and providing timely support for employees. It’s a continual balancing act between building rapport and trust with employees while adhering to and enforcing protocols.

“We strive to make life at Yardi better by staying true to our corporate motto: ‘Take care of our clients, take care of our employees, take care of our communities, stay focused, and grow,’” said Deshpande.

While she enjoys the diversity of her role and the environment, the work-life balance at Yardi has made it possible to feel success professionally and personally. She works smart in the office and can then savor her personal time.

“I enjoy spending time at home and with my family,” said Deshpande. “I read a lot, do the crossword and Sudoku and take an active interest in the affairs of the Housing Society where I stay,” explained Deshpande.

Though math puzzles may be frustrating for some, Deshpande’s Sudoku hobby is a nod to her roots in finance. Math is familiar and comforting. “It’s something I have always enjoyed. It is a good exercise for the brain. I also enjoy doing the crossword. In fact, I am a crossword addict.”

Looking back on her career, Deshpande tries to summarize the lessons that have helped her to grow. “If I offered advice to my 20-year-old self, it would be this: work hard, work smart. Keep learning. Focus on enjoying your job and not just the monetary benefits. Be a good worker and the rewards will follow naturally. Above all, maintain good relations with your colleagues.”