A Personal Odyssey: Unveiling Spiirall’s Expedition in India

As Spiirall’s new Global Learning + Development Advisor, my first mission was to immerse myself in the experiences of international training for our client firms. I eagerly embarked on an enthralling journey to Cochin in Kerala, India, last month to shadow a week-long live training with the GR8 Global Capacity Center and the Perkins & Co team. It was the journey of a lifetime with a vast wealth of knowledge gained. Join me for the adventure of a lifetime and some of the key takeaways we’re bringing with us into our future strategies.

It was 80F by 6AM. The humidity never really went away but with everyone at home enduring a winter storm I wasn’t complaining. It was sunrise over the hills of Kerala. The neatly organized rows of tea leaves were luminous in the morning glow while a swarm of tropical birds chirped their waking song. This was officially a “pinch me” moment.

My initial moments in India painted a vivid scene full of adventure. After a day and a half of traveling from the Midwest, I was warmly greeted at the airport by leadership from the GR8 Global Capability Center, fresh flowers and contagious smiles in hand despite it being nearly 2AM. Joined a few hours later by Jordan Patterson (Shareholder, Perkins & CO) and Kripa Raguram (Director, Perkins & Co), we kicked off our week together with a 48-hour leadership retreat in the jungles around Cochin. 

This was one of those travel experiences that feels a bit like a blur. There were rubber trees, coconuts, houseboats, jeep rides, and mountain summits amidst the most incredible meals I’ve ever enjoyed. By the time our training started on Monday morning, I couldn’t believe this was a part of my job.

Here are some key takeaways from Spiirall’s time in India:

1. The Power of Learning is its Own Culture

Watching global team training unfold, I truly understood the universal language of learning that transcends cultural boundaries. The heart of success lies in an employee’s commitment to growth matched by an employer’s dedication to development. 

2. Extra Time Makes Extra Difference

Even the best laid training plans are no match for the unexpected moments that come with live training. While time is a precious commodity that seems difficult to come by amid busy seasons and tight deadlines, we’re learning the long-term impact of slowing down and creating more learning space.

3. Banana Chips are Now a Required Snack Group

Beyond the technical aspects, I noted the significance of maintaining energy during training. Banana chips, a popular snack in Kerala, became a symbol of the importance of breaks, socializing, and sustaining energy levels during long sessions.

4. Cultural Strategies are Game Changers in Global L+D

I adapted my training approach by incorporating cultural strategies, realizing the impact of simple language and cultural nuances in connecting with diverse audiences. This insight emphasized the need for tailored approaches in global learning and development. 

5. Success Skills Development is Crucial

While technical training is essential, the paramount importance of developing communication and other success skills remains indisputable. Understanding the specific needs of global team members navigating different cultural norms is vital for success. 

6. Lastly, a personal lesson for me:

Getting to put my feet on the earth in India was an honor beyond my wildest dreams. Standing on the mountaintop overlooking Kerala, I felt the whisper of a lifetime of wishes coming true. It truly is possible to have a boundless and fulfilling career, and I am actually living that reality in action. 

I want to acknowledge the support of my team at Spiirall for sending me, our clients for championing our global growth together, and the GR8 GCC + Perkins teams for welcoming me into their training week with open arms.

Cheers to boundless growth and success,

Erin Crowley