Zuzanna Ławrynowicz, Author at SmartPeople

30Jul

Are You Ready for a Career Evolution?

Imagine, for a moment, you’re stuck in a routine—day in, day out, performing the same tasks, feeling like you’re trapped in a never-ending loop; you know every line, even the background music. Same tasks, same challenges, and you can’t help but feel like you’re wasting your potential. But, what if there was a plot twist?

Now, picture a world where your career is not just a job, but an adventure into the realm of cutting-edge technology. Welcome to the world of SAP, where your journey from your day-to-day job to a tech-savvy consultant begins. At Smart People Global Academy, we’re here to turn your career from a black-and-white rerun to into a 4K experience. Get ready to transform your work life and become a part of the tech party.

The Dull Repetition.

If you’re a specialist in HR or payroll, you might often feel like your days blur together in a haze of sameness. The repetitive nature of your tasks can start to feel like you’re walking on a treadmill, moving but not really getting anywhere. This isn’t just a job; it’s a rut that many professionals find themselves in. But what if we told you there’s a way out? A way to inject variety, challenge, and excitement into your professional life?

The Spark of Transformation.

Imagine your career as a smart home. Right now, you might be flicking the same old switches, but there’s an opportunity to turn your career into a seamless, automated marvel. The transformation is akin to upgrading your home with smart technology—suddenly, everything becomes more efficient, more exciting, and infinitely more rewarding. This is what transitioning into an SAP consultant role can do for you. It’s not just a job change; it’s a career evolution.

The Telegraph to Telephone Transition.

Consider the transition from the telegraph to the telephone in the late 19th century. The telegraph, while revolutionary in its time, required operators to understand Morse code and manually transmit messages. It was groundbreaking but cumbersome. Then came Alexander Graham Bell’s invention—the telephone. Suddenly, communication became instantaneous and intuitive, transforming how we connect with each other. Those who adapted to the telephone early on found themselves at the forefront of a communications revolution, gaining new skills and opportunities that were unimaginable before. Similarly, transitioning from traditional roles to becoming an SAP consultant can place you at the cutting edge of the technology landscape, opening doors to new and exciting career possibilities.

What We Offer: Comprehensive Online Training.

At Smart People Global Academy, we provide comprehensive online training in English and Spanish. Our courses are designed to fit into your busy schedule, offering flexibility and convenience without compromising on quality. You’ll gain access to project knowledge that is both deep and practical, ensuring you’re ready to tackle real-world challenges from day one.

Hands-on Experience with Demo Access.

Theory is essential, but practice makes perfect. That’s why we provide access to demo environments where you can apply what you’ve learned in a risk-free setting. This hands-on experience is invaluable, giving you the confidence and skills you need to excel in your new role.

Achieve Certification.

Our courses are structured to prepare you thoroughly for SAP certification. The certification is not just a piece of paper; it’s your ticket to a world of opportunities. With this credential, you’ll stand out in the crowded job market, proving your expertise and readiness to take on any challenge.

Interactive Q&A Sessions.

Learning is a two-way street, and we believe in active engagement. Our Q&A sessions allow you to interact with experts, ask questions, and clarify doubts. This interactive approach ensures that you fully grasp the concepts and can apply them effectively in your career.

Join the Smart People Community.

Learning doesn’t end with the course. Our SmartPeople community on LinkedIn allows you to connect with fellow graduates, share knowledge, and continue your professional development. It’s a network of like-minded professionals who support each other’s growth and success.

Exclusive Job Opportunities.

Completing our course opens doors to exclusive job opportunities. We provide two interview prospects with our clients, giving you a head start in your new career. These interviews are not just a formality; they’re your chance to showcase your skills and secure a position in a dynamic and growing field.

Why Wait? Transform Your Career Now.

The SAP landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, moving from traditional on-premise models to agile and efficient cloud solutions. This shift demands new skills and competencies, making it the perfect time to upskill and stay ahead of the curve. Our training programs are designed to equip you with everything you need to thrive in this evolving landscape. From detailed coursework to sandbox access, we ensure you’re well-prepared for certification and real-world challenges.

Thematic Scope and Course Start Date.

Our first classes start in September 2024, covering a rich thematic scope: Employee Central, Employee Central Payroll, Recruiting, Recruiting Marketing, and Onboarding. These areas are critical in today’s business environment, and expertise in these domains will make you a valuable asset to any organization.

Embrace the Journey.

So, if the idea of transforming your career sounds appealing, now is the time to dive into the world of SAP. It’s not just about staying relevant in a rapidly changing tech landscape; it’s about thriving in it. And who knows? You might even find that the journey is just as rewarding as the destination. Ready to take the leap? Join us at Smart People Global Academy and start your transformation today.

Remember, the future of your career is just a few clicks away. Don’t settle for the mundane. Embrace the exciting world of SAP, and let us help you shine.

14Jun

From Flicking Switches to Mastering SAP

From Flicking Switches to Smart Homes: A Journey into SAP:

Imagine if every time you wanted to switch on a light, you had to navigate a maze of wires in your home, manually connecting the right circuits to make that bulb shine. Sounds exhausting, right? Now, picture a world where, with just a click, your room bathes in light, thanks to smart home technology. This smooth, efficient transformation is akin to what’s happening in the business technology landscape, especially within the world of SAP.

SAP in the Business World:

SAP, or Systems, Applications, and Products in Data Processing, is a behemoth in the realm of enterprise resource planning (ERP) software. For those not in the know, it might sound like yet another tech acronym that someone tossed out at a conference to sound impressive, but in reality, it’s the backbone of many global businesses. However, just like our hypothetical smart home, the SAP world is undergoing a significant transformation. It’s moving from the traditional, often cumbersome, onpremise systems to the sleek, efficient cloud solutions. This shift is creating a gold rush for new skills and competencies.

The SAP Training:

Accessing training outside the SAP ecosystem can be elusive and often frustrating. This scarcity is particularly pronounced in specific SAP areas such as SuccessFactors, Ariba, and the implementation of S/4HANA. With SAP’s strategic push towards cloud solutions, clients are expected to transition to these new technologies. However, there’s a catch – the market is currently starved of qualified consultants to facilitate this migration.

Be the Life of the Tech Party:

This is where the opportunity lies. There is a growing demand for SAP professionals, and those who take the initiative to upskill now will find themselves in high demand. Imagine being at a party where everyone’s talking about the latest tech trends, and you’re the only one who actually understands what’s going on. That could be you in the world of SAP. You’d be the person everyone pretends to understand.

Escape the Career Déjà Vu:

Now, let’s address the monotony of doing the same job day in, day out. If you’re a specialist in payroll and human resources, you might find that your daily tasks start to feel like you’re on a never-ending loop of déjà vu. Injecting some variety and challenge into your career can be as refreshing as a cold lemonade on a hot day. Transitioning to a role as an SAP consultant could be the perfect antidote to career boredom, especially for those with a knack for technology.

A Career Evolution, Not Just a Change:

Becoming an SAP consultant is not just a job change; it’s a career evolution. It’s particularly suited for those with technical talents who thrive on solving complex problems and enjoy the dynamic nature of technology. Our training programs are designed to equip you with the necessary skills to make this leap. We provide a unique, in-depth preparation for SAP certification, including access to a sandbox environment where you can practice and hone your skills. This hands-on experience significantly boosts your chances of passing the certification exams.

Everyone’s invited: Seasone Pros and Newbies Alike:

These training programs are not only for seasoned professionals but also for juniors looking to establish a stable career in SAP projects. Imagine being able to work on client projects right from the start, with a company that supports your continuous development through exposure to the latest projects. It’s like having a personal trainer for your career, ensuring you’re always in peak condition.

The Bigger Picture: SAP’s transformation:

The SAP landscape is ripe for transformation, moving from the traditional OnPremise models to the agile and efficient cloud solutions. For Human Capital Management (HCM), this means transitioning from HCM onpremise to SAP SuccessFactors, either fully or through a hybrid approach. This shift not only demands new technological competencies but also a change in the skill sets of internal specialists working in Shared Service Centers or IT departments, as well as independent consultants who must adapt to the evolving technology landscape.

Transform Your Career:

Our training programs offer a comprehensive preparation for these changes, ensuring that you’re not just ready for certification but also equipped to handle real-world challenges. We provide all the tools – from detailed coursework to sandbox access – to ensure you’re well-prepared. And for those starting out, our training offers a pathway to stable employment and continuous professional growth.

09Apr

Beyond Groups and Into Teams: Navigating the Waters of Success

Have you ever considered the difference between a group and a team? Imagine strolling into a grand concert hall, excited to hear a symphony orchestra perform. As the conductor raises their baton, instead of a harmonious masterpiece, each musician starts playing a different song at the same time, at their own pace. It’s not music; it’s mayhem. This is the perfect metaphor for a group without unity. When we buy tickets for a concert, we expect to hear a synchronized harmony – something that requires a team.

Group vs. Team

Before we dive into the topic of teamwork, let’s anchor down some definitions. Let’s go back in time for a moment. Picture the Titanic, an unsinkable ship, setting sail with a group of individuals, each a master of their own fate, yet collectively unprepared for the iceberg. When a group of people that have nothing in common is faced with an obstacle, each one wants to save themselves. On the flip side, imagine the Apollo space missions, where teams of astronauts and ground control were so in sync that they turned potential disasters into stories of triumph and dusty boot prints on the moon. That’s a team, united by a goal, sharing a mission.

The Lone Wolf Syndrome

In fiction, the lone wolf is often romanticized – the solitary genius who leads the company to glory. In reality, however, reliance on individual heroics who happen to be connected by the same label is misplaced. Each one of them may come up with brilliant ideas, but if there’s no communication and no common goal, your company is aiming for the iceberg, not the stars. The ideas of individual people in the group are going to create an unsynchronized chaos, a wasted potential. Only a team will be able to come up with a business plan that will bring development to the company.

From Groupthink to Team Sync: The Mindset Shift

A group becomes a team when they shift from ‘I’ to ‘We.’ Groupthink is when a gaggle of minds think alike but separately, often leading to disastrous results. Team sync, however, is when those minds start to think together, creating a powerhouse of creativity and problem-solving. It’s like comparing a scattergun to a laser beam in terms of focus and impact.

Building Bridges, Not Walls: Communication in Teams

Effective communication is the bridge that connects team members, while poor communication can create walls as impenetrable as the hull of the Titanic. Teams thrive on open dialogue, where ideas flow freely, and every member has a voice.

The Domino Effect: When One Falls, We All Fall

In a group, if one person fails, it’s their problem. In a team, it’s a shared challenge. Like a row of dominos, each member is connected, and the fall of one can signal the descent of all. But in a strong team, instead of toppling, people lean on each other to keep the momentum going.

Adaptability: The Team’s Advantage

Teams, unlike rigid groups, possess the power of adaptability. When an unforeseen problem arises, a true team can improvise, adapt, and overcome, turning obstacles into opportunities.

Why Your Business Needs a Team, Not Just a Group

In the end, a business thrives on the synergy of a team, not the disjointed efforts of a group. Just as a conductor guides an orchestra to create a symphony that can stir the soul, a business leader must cultivate a team that moves in unison towards a shared vision. In the tale of the Titanic and Apollo, we find a stark reminder: to navigate the icebergs of the business world and reach for the success, investing in the creation of a team, rather than a mishmash of individuals, is not just beneficial, it’s imperative.

13Feb

Managing an IT department

Managing an IT department when there is a shortage of sufficient staff can be a challenge. Implementing flexible forms of employment can be a key solution to increase access to talents and improve team efficiency. Here are several strategies that can help change this scenario:

Remote work and outsourcing: Introducing flexible forms of employment, such as remote work or outsourcing services, can significantly expand the pool of available specialists. This not only allows hiring experts from outside the local job market but also enables better adaptation to diverse projects and tasks.

Short-term and project-based contracts: Instead of seeking full-time employees, consider hiring specialists on short-term contracts or for specific projects. This approach allows for flexible adjustment of the team to current needs without the commitment of permanent employment.

Internship programs: Implementing internship programs can be an effective way to attract fresh talents. Interns can provide new perspectives and assist in project implementation while potentially becoming future permanent employees.

Collaboration with consulting firms: Utilizing the services of IT consulting firms allows for the quick deployment of specialized knowledge and skills. External firms can handle specific projects or areas, supporting the IT department for a defined period.

Flexible work schedules: Allowing flexible work schedules, such as part-time or flexible hours, can attract professionals seeking a more balanced work-life.

Online recruitment platforms: Use online recruitment platforms to reach a wide group of potential candidates. This enables a faster and more effective search for specialists with the necessary skills.

Internal employee development: Invest in the internal development of employees, enabling them to acquire new skills and advance within the IT department. This not only motivates current employees but also increases the team’s flexibility by developing internal experts.

Upskilling and Reskilling: The Reality for New Workforce Development: It is often perceived that only large companies have the courage or the budgets to retrain their employees in niche skills. That’s where our company, Smart People, steps in to bridge the gap. We help workers acquire new, market-unique competencies so that employers can benefit from these “resources.” This is an excellent way to address the acquisition of unique skills and to integrate them into our departments. By empowering our workforce with cutting-edge knowledge and skills, we not only enhance their professional growth but also drive innovation and adaptability within our organizations.

Recruiting Employees from Other Markets: A Bold Move: Few companies dare to venture into hiring employees from markets outside Poland due to various reasons, such as language barriers and communication difficulties. However, what if we broaden our perspective and consider how we can apply our innovative ideas to utilize the potential of workers from other markets? Take Sweden, for example, which amended its laws to attract specialists from countries like Bangladesh, Pakistan, and India, among others, to its labor markets. Embracing such a change in mindset and being open to cultural diversity requires modern, flexible approaches to the challenges of workforce shortages. It’s worth considering whether to adopt unconventional strategies to stay ahead in the global talent race. Reflect on the possibilities that inclusivity and diversity can bring to your business.

Implementing flexible forms of employment can bring numerous benefits, not only in terms of access to talents but also in adapting to the dynamically changing business environment. An IT department based on flexible employment models can be more efficient, flexible, and ready to face the challenges of the modern job market.

08Feb

Onboarding New Employees in Remote Work Environment: Key Steps for Effective Adaptation

In today’s dynamic business environment, an increasing number of companies are opting for remote work, providing employees with flexibility and comfort. However, integrating new employees into a remote team requires a special approach. In this article, we will discuss key steps that will help effectively integrate new remote team members.
One of the crucial aspects of adapting an employee to a remote work environment is providing necessary tools and training. Before starting remote work, ensure that new employees have access to essential tools and software. Provide support through online training to enable them to efficiently use communication platforms, project management tools, and other company-specific resources.
Introducing a transparent remote work policy is also essential. Clear guidelines regarding working hours, communication, and expectations for efficiency should be established. Ensuring that new employees understand expectations regarding availability, progress reporting, and communication with the team is crucial. It is not about control but effective result management.
Assigning mentors is another solution to better manage new employees in such an environment. Establishing a mentoring system helps new employees quickly integrate into the team. Mentors can serve as points of contact, aiding in understanding the company’s culture, procedures, and building relationships with other team members.
Many companies also organize virtual integration meetings. Holding regular virtual integration meetings where new employees have the opportunity to get to know other team members is a significant element in adapting a new employee to a new work environment. Such interactions help build relationships even if employees are geographically separated.
Another crucial element is communication. In a remote environment, communication becomes even more critical than in an office setting. As small talk, shared lunches, and kitchen conversations are absent, communication should happen seamlessly through remote work tools. It is essential to introduce efficient communication channels, invest in remote work tools, video conferences, group chats, and collaboration platforms. Regular communication is key to maintaining a cohesive collaboration in a remote environment.
Many companies also provide psychological support to remote team members. Onboarding new remote employees can be stressful. Providing access to psychological support resources and ensuring employees know where to seek help if needed are almost prerequisites for the proper functioning of the company and collaboration within the team.
Team effectiveness is fundamental. Tracking progress and adjusting strategies to the changing environment are necessary for this efficiency. Regularly assessing the progress of new employees and adjusting the adaptation process strategy, if necessary, is an aspect that HR departments should consistently work on. Flexibility and readiness to adapt to individual employee needs increase the chances of successful integration.
In conclusion, onboarding new employees in a remote work environment requires careful planning and approach. Providing necessary tools, training, communication, and psychological support is crucial. By implementing these steps, a company not only facilitates the adaptation of new employees but also builds a capable, integrated team working efficiently even at a distance.

05Feb

Employee Outsourcing – The Future of the Global Economy

In today’s globalized world, where technology and communication are integral parts of our daily lives, new forms of employment and collaboration are constantly being explored and developed. One such innovative practice is known as employee outsourcing, whose benefits and potential are worth our attention.
Competence outsourcing involves a company outsourcing the execution of specific tasks, projects, or processes to another entity that provides the necessary human resources. This flexible form of employment allows companies to leverage the skills and knowledge of specialists they might not be able to afford on a full-time basis.
First and foremost, employee outsourcing brings benefits to business entities. Companies can easily adjust the size of their workforce to current needs, enabling better cost control, more efficient project management, and quicker responses to market changes. This allows organizations to focus on their core activities and achieve better results.
Additionally, employee outsourcing provides businesses with access to a highly skilled, flexible, and diverse workforce. Employees engaged through outsourcing often possess unique skills, experience, and knowledge in their respective fields, translating into a high level of service delivery. The ability to tap into such potential can be a crucial factor for gaining a competitive advantage.
However, the benefits of outsourcing personnel extend beyond businesses. Employees can also find numerous advantages in it. On the one hand, it allows them flexibility and mobility in their professional careers. They can work on diverse projects and acquire new skills, influencing personal and professional development. On the other hand, employee outsourcing provides them with greater job security, as outsourcing entities strive to maintain good relationships with their employees, ensuring a stable and diversified client base.
Nevertheless, there is a need for appropriate regulation of this form of employment to guarantee worker protection and prevent abuse. Regardless, employee outsourcing has tremendous potential and can bring many benefits to both employers and employees.
In today’s dynamic world, where flexibility and quick adaptation to changes are crucial, employee outsourcing is becoming an increasingly attractive solution. Companies that adeptly utilize this form of employment can reap numerous benefits and achieve success in the market. At the same time, it is crucial for legal regulations to be tailored to this new work model, ensuring a balance between the needs of employers and the protection of workers’ rights.

01Feb

Eastern European IT Markets – Unlocking Potential and Embracing Innovation

Eastern Europe is a region undergoing dynamic development on the international stage, and the IT market plays a crucial role in this transformation. It’s worth taking a closer look at this fascinating area where innovations, flexibility, and growing technological skills shape the business landscape.

Burgeoning Potential:
Eastern European markets, such as Poland, Ukraine, and Romania, are experiencing dynamic growth in the information technology sector. Openness to foreign investments, developed technological infrastructure, and access to qualified specialists create favorable conditions for IT companies.

Flexibility and Innovation:
IT companies in Eastern Europe stand out for their flexibility and the ability to adapt to rapidly changing market conditions. An innovative climate fosters the development of startups and the implementation of modern technological solutions.

Powerful IT Talents:
This region boasts a wealth of talented IT specialists. Universities offering high-quality computer science education and the growing interest in the IT industry ensure that the market has access to a qualified workforce.

Outsourcing and Nearshoring:
Companies from Western Europe are increasingly turning to outsourcing and nearshoring services in Eastern Europe. This solution brings benefits in the form of lower operational costs while maintaining high service quality.

Unique Geographical Position:
The geographical location of Eastern Europe makes it an attractive location for logistics centers and data processing centers. This, in turn, attracts IT sector investments that value the advantageous positioning of this area.

EU Support:
Financial support from the European Union for initiatives related to technology and innovation serves as an additional impetus for the development of the IT market in Eastern Europe.

Challenges to Overcome:
Despite dynamic growth, the IT market in Eastern Europe faces certain challenges. The need for continuous infrastructure development, maintaining high educational standards, and addressing issues related to corruption are aspects that require attention.

Summary:
The Eastern European IT market is not only thriving but also becoming a significant player on the global technological stage. Companies have the opportunity to leverage local talents, an innovative environment, and favorable business conditions. As the importance of this region grows, it’s worth monitoring the innovative solutions that will emerge from Eastern Europe and their impact on the global technological scene. Personally, these aspects are crucial to me because my mission is to connect specialists from Eastern Europe with companies in the Western European, United States, or Australian markets.

29Jan

Team as a Service (TaaS) – The Key to Business Efficiency

In today’s dynamic business environment, companies must be prepared for rapid changes, flexibility, and efficiency. In this context, the “Team as a Service” (TaaS) concept is gaining increasing popularity, offering businesses an innovative approach to human resource management. Why is TaaS becoming a key element of success for many enterprises? Below, I present several key benefits resulting from the use of this service.

Flexibility and Scalability:
In a world where market conditions can change dramatically, flexibility is crucial. TaaS allows companies to adapt to changing conditions by quickly scaling their teams as needed. This solution helps avoid unnecessary fixed costs associated with hiring full-time employees, especially for short-term projects or for supporting processes crucial to the organization’s functioning but less significant to the core business.
Access to Global Talent:
TaaS opens doors to global human resources for companies. Through remote work, businesses can leverage the skills of specialists from different parts of the world, allowing for better customization of the team to the project’s specifics. This also promotes diversity and a variety of perspectives, which can accelerate innovative processes.
Cost Optimization:
Utilizing TaaS can contribute to operational cost optimization. Companies don’t have to incur additional costs associated with recruitment, hiring, employee development, or maintaining employees in-house. They also avoid investment costs related to employees, such as training. Paying for services based on projects, tasks, or working hours is more efficient and allows for precise cost monitoring.
Faster Time-to-Market:
By accessing specialized human resources quickly, companies using TaaS can shorten the time needed to implement a project. A faster time-to-market is crucial, especially in industries where competition is intense, and a quick response to changing market trends is essential.
Focus on Core Business:
Outsourcing tasks unrelated to the core business allows companies to focus on key business areas. With TaaS, enterprises can delegate certain functions to specialists, increasing operational efficiency and enabling better utilization of internal resources.

In summary, Team as a Service is not only an innovative approach to team management but also a strategy that enables companies to be more flexible, efficient, and competitive in the market. Providing access to global talents and allowing cost optimization, TaaS is the answer to contemporary business challenges, putting companies on the path to success.

22Jan

Employee Outsourcing in IT: Why It Pays Off?

In today’s dynamic business world, companies are increasingly considering various strategies for managing human resources. In the field of Information Technology (IT), employee outsourcing has become a popular solution, replacing traditional methods of internal recruitment. In this blog, we will discuss why employee outsourcing in IT brings more benefits than conducting internal recruitment within the company.

Flexibility and Access to Global Talent:
Employee outsourcing enables companies to access top-notch professionals from around the world. Instead of limiting themselves to the local job market, a company can choose from experts in different regions, increasing the chances of finding the best available talent.
Time and Cost Savings:
The internal recruitment process involves many expenses, such as job advertisements, interviews, and employee training. Employee outsourcing helps avoid these costs because an external company takes care of all aspects of the recruitment process, as well as the maintenance of the employee within the company. Moreover, reducing the time needed to find suitable candidates translates into faster project implementation.
Focus on Key Tasks:
Employee outsourcing allows companies to focus on key aspects of their business. Instead of wasting time searching for and recruiting IT employees, a company can concentrate on developing and improving its products or services.
Niche Specialization:
Outsourcing companies specialize in delivering high-quality IT services. This specialization allows them to provide expertise and experience in specific areas, often surpassing the capabilities of internal teams.
Team Scalability Flexibility:
Employee outsourcing allows for easy adjustment of the team size to current project needs. In times of increased activity, it is easy to increase the number of specialists, and during periods of lower intensity, reducing the team size translates into cost optimization.
Responsibility of the Outsourcing Company:
Outsourcing companies typically take responsibility for the performance and results of their employees. This means that the company does not have to worry about managing the team or monitoring the work of employees, allowing them to focus on achieving business goals.

In summary, employee outsourcing in the IT sector is a strategic solution that allows companies to achieve competitiveness, focus on key tasks, reduce costs, and provide access to global talent. In today’s fast-paced business environment, where the pace of change is rapid, IT employee outsourcing becomes a crucial tool, enabling companies to effectively manage human resources.

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