In this instalment of Shortlister Spotlights (a Q&A series to get to know some of our team members) meet Apoorva Kanotra, Talent Analyst from Mumbai office!
At Shortlist, we love building our team almost as much as we love building yours!
We have some pretty amazing people across our three offices who have a real passion for what they do and for the Shortlist mission.
Read on to know more about Apoorva’s Shortlist journey!
So, Apoorva. Tell us about your life at Shortlist.
Life at Shortlist is pretty exciting! 😀Even though it’s only been six months for me, it feels that I have been here for much longer. From what my role as a Talent Analyst was initially to what it is now there has been a drastic growth in terms of scope, responsibilities and business management.
In a short time, I have picked up a wide range of skills that have helped me at work and in my personal life as well. My team is pretty awesome too – super helpful and super fun 🤘🏽. There is never a dull moment! And my coffee-making ☕ skills have certainly improved, of which I am extremely proud.
When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Believe it or not, I wanted to be a veterinary doctor when I was ten. I have always loved animals, and I had more pets than human friends as a child. In fifth grade, I seriously considered pursuing veterinary science or getting a PhD. I had a full plan chalked out until I realized how scared I was of blood and the slightest sight of it 😅. Seems silly but it renders me paralyzed. Then in high school, I realized I had different professional inclinations and strengths, so I decided to explore and develop them seriously.
While I couldn’t go through with my previous academic plan, I try to volunteer at local animal shelters as often as I can. I feel that if I can convince even one person to take up the “Adopt, don’t shop” mantra, I’ve done some genuine good.
What is your professional background, and what were you looking for in your next career step when you found Shortlist?
I completed my graduation from Narsee Monjee in Mumbai majoring in Finance. However, I was always inclined towards talent management and organizational development. After working for about a year, I came across an opportunity at Shortlist through my professional network. I met Zoyeb, Lotika and the rest of the team at one of Shortlist’s events and eventually interviewed for the Talent Analyst position. Through the process, I realized how much I could resonate with the mission, and the challenges Shortlist was addressing in the recruitment industry. And after using the platform as a candidate myself, I was sold on the idea! 😀
How has your current role impacted you?
I have become more patient and empathetic. In this role as a Talent analyst, I feel I am now better equipped in handling different stakeholders although I would say it’s still a work in progress:) My people management skills, however, have undergone a serious makeover. When I was younger, I used to believe that I was a good listener. I used to take it for granted but not anymore – there is always room for improvement.
I have also come to realize the work that needs to be put in to build and scale an organization. It’s vital to have a good team by your side and the impact that can have on a macro level.
Tell us about a candidate that inspired you.
I remember this one time when I spoke to a candidate for a Program Manager role. He was quite an eminent personality in his professional circle with about two decades of experience. What struck me was his humility and the work that he was still doing at the grass-root level to create an impact in his community. He was one inspiring candidate I encountered.
What’s your professional superpower?
I suppose punctuality would be one. And I try to incorporate this little piece of discipline in my personal life as well.
Apoorva indulging her love for new places at Hampi
What’s your favourite Shortlist memory?
I love the periodical team meetings we have called the “Pulse Check”. It’s the time when our team comes together and talks about their work in general, what they are happy or excited about and the challenges they are facing. Also what they would like to do more together as a team and or just vent. It’s a complete no judgment zone, and I love that.
What are three words or phrases you would use to describe Team Shortlist?
Ownership, innovation, and continuous improvement.
What’s your favourite Shortlist value? (Learn more about our values here!)
I think “own it” would be my favorite Shortlist value not only because there is a great self-learning curve involved there but also because it helps me learn from my mistakes & enables me to be better prepared for more dire challenges in the future.
What do you like to do outside of work?
Read 📖, plan a spontaneous solo trip or veg out in front of Netflix. 📺
And of course, spend time with my cat 🙂 #catmomforever.
With her cat Niku
What are you currently reading, watching, or listening to?
The last book I read and really liked was “Never Let Me Go” by Kazuo Ishiguro. Whoever hasn’t heard of him should definitely check his work out.
As far as the music goes, I’m good with anything except EDM – I don’t understand that genre on a fundamental level. 🙄
Why is the Shortlist mission important to you?
What I like about our mission is that we don’t superficially assess someone’s skills or potential. The whole idea of sharing resumes in bulk is obsolete, especially in this day and age where a person’s success isn’t measured by just a degree or designation. It is actually their contribution to their role, and the value add to an organization, both tangible and intangible. We at Shortlist try to measure all these aspects to match the right person to the right job and vice- versa.
We like to give high fives to recognise when our team members do something awesome. Now is your chance to make a public high five to a fellow Shortlister:
A shoutout to all my fellow Shortlisters, especially the leadership team – the OG gang! But I would specifically like to give a shoutout to my manager Ashbira, who has always had my back.
Super fun, super supportive Operations team, Mumbai
Any final words?
I am having a lot of fun in my innings as a Shortlister. I feel that a work environment like this will always push me to evolve, do better and give me the confidence to question processes and new ideas wherever I go.
What I love about Shortlist is that no opinion or suggestion is wrong or futile. Every individual here has a voice. There is a natural sense of understanding amongst the team-something you don’t come across that often in an organization.
I am looking forward to what this journey brings next.
Thank you, Apoorva! We’re so glad to hear your experiences on Team Shortlist.
Did reading about Apoorva’s experiences make you want to join our squad? Check out the rest of our crew here.
We’re hiring…Follow this link and stay up to date on job openings! We have more openings for Talent Analyst at Shortlist.
Apply today — we’re excited to hear from you 🙂
If you would like help building your team, let us help you. Shortlist offers a wide range of recruitment solutions that help companies build great teams.
