Women leadership series - In conversations with Hinal Shah

How would you introduce yourself?

Hi there, I am Hinal Shah. I would like to introduce myself as a dedicated Salesforce professional, current enjoying my role as the Director of the Salesforce CRM team for Enterprise Technology at LTIMindtree.

Can you tell me a bit about your career journey? When did you first get into a leadership role?

After completing my Engineering in Electronics and Telecommunication, I started my journey in the realm of Salesforce which began over a decade ago, starting as a developer and gradually moving up the ranks through sheer determination and passion for technology. Over the years, I have cultivated a deep understanding of CRM systems and led numerous projects that have significantly contributed to business growth and efficiency.

What were the top challenges you faced during your journey and how did you overcome them?

My top challenge in leadership was balancing personal tasks with team development. 

When entering an unfamiliar area, I needed to build a capable team rather than doing everything myself. This required me to consider the impact of work and set clear expectations with the team.

Another challenge that I had initially faced while leading a team that caters to different business stakeholders with varying priorities requires effectively managing these priorities while delivering value. Initially, this posed some challenges, but setting clear expectations with all the stakeholders, keeping them informed, and making decisions collaboratively, I effectively managed these priorities while delivering value.

Maintaining transparency with stakeholders and being genuinely invested in solving their problems helped gain their trust and built a long-term relationship with them.

A leader usually is always expected to know everything and give the right sense of direction when you are looked upon. I always felt that I needed to know everything for every question, which stressed me out, over the period of time I learned that it is okay to admit when I don’t have an answer at the moment.

A major challenge I frequently encounter is bridging communication gaps. Technical teams and non-technical stakeholders often struggle to understand each other's perspectives. To address this, I focus on simplifying complex technical concepts using clear, layman language and ensuring alignment through regular cross-functional meetings.

Managing team dynamics and retention is another significant challenge for any leader. Keeping the team motivated and engaged while ensuring high performance can be tough. By recognizing individual strengths and fostering a collaborative environment, I successfully maintain high morale.

What motivates you?

Building strong teams motivates me, Leading a high performance team and helping individuals grow professionally is incredibly rewarding. It gives immense satisfaction seeing team members succeed and develop their skills.

Creating impacts by delivering solutions that not solves the immediate problems but also contribute to long term success and scalability of the organization. I am often excited by the challenge of solving complex problems with innovative solutions.

Do you have a role model in your life? Can you name a few people who you look up to?

There are many people who inspire me, but at the top of the list is, and always will be, my mom. She has been a constant source of motivation and guidance throughout my life. Her unwavering support and strength have shaped me into the person I am today, and I am forever grateful for her presence in my life.

I would also mention Maclean Josh who is the Head of Strategy Office, he is known for leading with Empathy, encouraging his teams to innovate fostering a collaborative environment where diverse ideas and creativity flourish.

What does leadership mean to you? How would you describe your leadership style?

To me, leadership is all about inspiring and empowering others to reach their full potential while working towards a common goal. It's about creating a space where everyone feels valued, heard, and motivated to give their best.

Leadership isn't about being the boss; it's about supporting and guiding others, helping them tackle their challenges, and celebrating their wins with empathy.

Ultimately, leadership is about making a positive and lasting impact on the team and the organization.

What would be your advice to young leaders?

Always Believe in yourself because there is nobody like you.

Embrace Continuous learning because Leadership is not a destination, it is a journey.

Lead with Empathy, leadership is all about people. Empathy fosters trust and stronger relationships.

Be resilient and adaptable, embrace failure as a learning opportunity and remain adaptable in the face of change.

Empower Others because true leaders always lift others up, give opportunities to grow.

Keep sight of the bigger picture, align your decisions with long terms goals for yourself and your team.

Stay humble, stay open minded and always seek to be a leader that helps to be your best selves.