Meet Arensa, a highly motivated and passionate individual from Albania with a background in computer engineering. Arensa has a keen interest in technology and project management, which led her to switch careers and focus on managing tech teams. In this interview, Arensa will share her approach to dealing with challenges, how she seeks and integrates feedback, the crucial skills for success in her position as a Scrum Master, and the benefits of working for Authority Partners, among other topics.
AP: We would love to learn more about you. Can you tell us a bit more about yourself?
AK: I am Arensa, and I am from Albania. I am a highly motivated and passionate individual with a background in computer engineering. I have always had a keen interest in technology and love to keep up-to-date with the latest advancements. I have a strong desire to work with people, thus switched careers and am now focused on managing tech teams. I categorize myself as a voracious reader, with a deep interest in both technology and project management. When not engrossed in the world of tech and work, I love to travel and explore new cultures, cultivate a beautiful small garden, cook delicious meals and occasionally practice yoga and meditation for personal well-being. With a diverse range of interests and skills, I am a very driven individual who is always looking for new challenges to tackle.
AP: If someone were to visit your country, what are three things they should not miss seeing, visiting, or experiencing?
AK: I am from Albania, which even though it is a small country offers some of the most picturesque views ever. In a very short time you can go from North to South offering all kinds of terrains from Albanian alps to the amazing coastline of the Adriatic and Ionian seas. The first thing would be the Albanian Riviera: The coastline is amazing, with crystal-clear waters and picturesque views. The Albanian Riviera is a must-see destination, with its stunning beaches, quaint fishing villages, and mountainous terrain. Some popular destinations are Saranda, Himara, and Dhermi. Secondly, I would recommend the city of Berat, known as the “city of a thousand windows,” a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. The city is famous for its beautiful Ottoman architecture, cobblestone streets, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. If you stop there you do also go rafting in the Osumi canyon. Last, try Albanian cuisine, which is a unique blend of Mediterranean and Balkan flavors. Some traditional dishes to try include Tave Kosi (a delicious lamb and yogurt casserole), Flija (a layered pancake dish), and Byrek (a savory pastry filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables).
AP: What is your approach to dealing with challenges?
AK: My approach to dealing with a challenge is simple. I set the resolved challenge as a goal that I break down and prioritize in order to remain focused. Sometimes can be discouraging, but maintaining a positive attitude and staying smiley but persistent will always be the key to deal and resolving all challenges.
AP: In what ways do you typically seek and integrate feedback from colleagues, supervisors, and clients into your work?
AK: As a Scrum Master, seeking and integrating feedback from colleagues, supervisors, and clients is an essential part of my role. Here are some ways in which I typically approach:
Regular retrospectives: At the end of each sprint, I hold a retrospective meeting with each of my teams to gather feedback on what went well and what needs improvement. I use this feedback and create action steps to identify areas for improvement and adjust the team’s approach for the next sprint. In addition, I regularly communicate with everyone on a daily basis via all communication channels.
AP: What skills do you believe are crucial for success in your position?
AK: The most important one for any position is communicating effectively. In order to facilitate any communication, everyone should be able to express the ideas clearly and be an active listener. In addition, I believe having leadership skills is very much needed as very often you need to encourage team members, identify problems and risks and create a positive mindset environment. Next, I would say Scrum Masters need to have the mindset of servant leadership by prioritizing team members’ needs above their own and by empowering them to take ownership.
AP: What advice would you offer someone who is just starting their career?
AK: This advice applies to all career paths: Work hard and develop a strong work ethic by taking ownership and responsibilities, meeting deadlines and being punctual. Never stop learning; it will always pay off. The more you act like a humble student, the better you will become at your job. Finally, never stop being proactive and make sure to develop a growth mindset that will keep you open to new challenges and learnings.
AP: What are your favorite benefits of working with Authority Partners?
AK: Firstly, I saw a lot of professional development opportunities in AP, with all the networking, mentoring and training sessions offered that can help me develop new skills and advance in my career. In addition, I love working with passionate people, and so far I have not found anyone that is not passionate and everyone is committing by heart to all tasks. I love the exposure to diverse cultures as it provides an opportunity to interact with people from all over the world and helps me broaden my understanding of other cultures. Last, working remotely has given me the much desired life-work balance and I love how flexible everyone is.
AP: Thank you Arensa!