Maitri Rajput

Masters in Business Information Systems, Bachelors in Information Technology

What’s your background?

I initially came to Australia as an international student for my tertiary education and work experience. Throughout that time, I had to navigate several roadblocks and challenges to accomplish my goals. After getting my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Information Technology and Business Information Systems, I gained exposure and experience in various business analysis domain projects while working at Escient.

I like to think of myself as a modern-day explorer. I might not have a map, but I do have a toolkit full of methodologies, frameworks, and models that I can use to find my way. When I’m confronted with challenges, I like to break them down into practical bits and find adaptable solutions.

Why did you choose Escient?

Even before commencing my graduate program, I had the privilege of working with Escient. I began as a part-time Business Service Officer with Escient, gaining nearly two years of experience. While pursuing my Master’s degree, I seized an opportunity to work with Escient, gaining firsthand experience of what consulting entails.

Escient prioritises its people above all else. Team collaboration, trust, empathy, creativity, and mutual empowerment are values deeply ingrained within the company culture. Becoming a Business Analyst was a natural and clear decision, especially considering the company’s focus on this role as a core capability. Therefore, it was an ideal choice to apply for Escient’s graduate program, where I found a community and environment that resonated with me.

How do you think your role at Escient allows you to make a difference?

In my role at Escient, I find that my work extends beyond the office. It’s not just about fulfilling client projects; it’s about our tangible, positive impact on the world around us. Working with clients like Fire Rescue Australia, Royal Flying Doctors Service, SA Health, Black Dog Institute, and others, I see firsthand how our efforts directly contribute to improving people’s lives.

Whether implementing innovative solutions for emergency response teams, enhancing healthcare services, or advancing mental health initiatives, each project we undertake has the potential to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and communities. Knowing that my work has a ripple effect, creating a chain of positive outcomes, adds a deeper sense of purpose to what I do at Escient.

What’s the coolest thing about your job?

Consultants at Escient have the opportunity to develop new skills across various capability areas as part of their growth objectives. After acquiring the necessary skills, we can effectively work as Business Analysts, Change Managers, or any of our other specialist domains. We can even upskill across multiple capabilities if there is a particular niche that interests us. It’s totally up to us.

What challenges have you faced in your position, and how have you overcome them?

As a graduate consultant, it’s natural not to have all the answers. Therefore, reaching out to your buddies, mentors, colleagues, or members of Escient’s Communities of Practice is perfectly fine for advice or feedback. Moreover, impostor syndrome can be particularly challenging, especially during your graduate year. That’s why I recommend fostering trustworthy and genuine connections with those who support you and offer honest, constructive feedback. I always advocate keeping a record of achievements or key milestones at work, as it can help combat feelings of self-doubt. Keeping an open mind towards learning and adapting based on new information also goes a long way towards personal growth.

What skills or attributes do you believe are essential for success in your field?

I genuinely believe that success in a consultant role hinges on a blend of essential skills and a touch of personal flair. Some of the elements I’ve seen include using critical and creative thinking for problem-solving, having good communication skills and empathy when managing client relationships, being open to new ideas and adaptable in diverse situations, working well in a team, and being resilient when faced with adversity. An individual’s unique blend of these elements drives their professional growth and fosters genuine connection and impact when working in consulting.