In my 13+ years in IT and 20 years working with people, I’ve seen incredible progress in how technology transforms businesses. But I’ve also seen a pattern that’s hard to ignore: too often, we focus on tools, processes, and certificates while forgetting the most important component—people.
This came up in a conversation I had recently with a recruiter who’s been in the industry for over 20 years. We discussed the challenges facing hiring and team dynamics today, from rigid requirements like “X years of experience” or “specific certifications” to the tendency to overlook hands-on learners and self-starters. What stood out most was her observation: “We’re missing the human-centered approach in all this.”
A Human-Centered Approach: The Missing Piece in Digital Transformation
Digital transformation is often seen as a purely technical process—rolling out new systems, introducing tools, and streamlining operations. But without considering the people using these tools and adapting to these systems, companies risk alienating their teams, creating inefficiencies, and even losing talent.
The truth is, transformation doesn’t succeed because of tools alone. It succeeds because of the people behind them. Processes, certifications, and years of experience may set a foundation, but they don’t guarantee adaptability, creativity, or resilience—qualities that are essential during times of change. This is where mentorship comes in.
Mentorship: A Bridge Between People and Transformation
As someone who’s passionate about mentorship, I see it as the key to navigating this disconnect. Mentorship fosters trust, encourages open communication, and helps individuals and teams feel supported during periods of uncertainty. It’s about more than transferring knowledge—it’s about empowering people to adapt, grow, and thrive in a changing environment.
In IT, mentorship can look like:
Supporting employees who feel overwhelmed by new systems or processes.
Encouraging collaboration across teams to share knowledge and align on goals.
Helping individuals develop soft skills like problem-solving and resilience, which are just as critical as technical expertise.
People Over Processes: Why This Mindset Matters
One of the most rewarding aspects of my career has been guiding teams through projects where the human-centered approach made all the difference. For example:
When a tool rollout stalled because employees weren’t consulted, we shifted the focus to their needs, gathering input and adapting the process. Not only did this build trust, but it also led to smoother adoption.
In mentoring team leads, I emphasized active listening and feedback, helping them better support their teams. This created a ripple effect of engagement and productivity.
When we focus on people over processes, we build teams that aren’t just efficient but also innovative and connected. Mentorship is the thread that ties this together, creating environments where individuals feel seen and valued.
Final Thoughts: A Call for Change
As we navigate the future of work, I hope more companies embrace a human-centered approach. Let’s look beyond rigid requirements and certifications, recognizing that we’re all learners, growing every day. Let’s prioritize mentorship to guide our teams through transformation and create workplaces that thrive on collaboration and empathy.
This is where my two worlds—IT and mentorship—intersect. It’s not just about managing projects or mentoring individuals; it’s about creating a culture where people and technology work in harmony. And that’s where the magic happens.