Life at Kognitiv Inc

Act Like an Owner

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 17:00:00 +0000

In 2016, I quit my job and went out on my own. The organization I was working for had just been acquired by a very large conglomerate, and if I knew one thing about myself, it was that the big corporate life and structure was not for me. I'd always had the spirit of an entrepreneur (and a little practice starting a side hustle t-shirt company), but was I really doing this? Trying to be an Independent Workday consultant in an ecosystem of basically no independent Workday consultants was a big risk. How was I going to compete against the large partners out there?

If I really think about what drove my leap of faith, it boiled down to one thing - I hate red tape.

As fortune had it, a friend of mine reached out with a contract opportunity at another large company: LinkedIn. I learned many things at the Sunnyvale campus, but what really struck me was how well LinkedIn treats their employees. It was immediately obvious why this company had been so successful and how it became a household name.

Even as a contractor, I was expected to go to the same new hire orientation as all other employees. This seemed odd, but in many ways and obviously, was a great idea. One of the first things I heard in my orientation is something I adopted in my businesses for the rest of my life: “Act like an Owner.”

I love this saying for so many reasons, but mainly because it might as well say, “To hell with the red-tape!” Do what you think you need to do when you need to do it. Think on your feet, and well, just Act like an Owner.

To me, rules and red tape are only there for one reason: protect the company from employees doing bad things. So...why don't companies just hire good people who do good work? No tape needed, right? Might this also make employees in your company feel like they are appreciated, respected, and have jobs people rely on?

I’m sure lots of people reading this are rolling their eyes and thinking, “It’s not that simple. We need those rules for reasons of X, Y and Z.” Let me be clear: I understand there will always be a level of review needed on processes that have high consequences. Trust me, I get it. But I think even the "eye rollers" get the point I am making. And if not, maybe the red tape is there for you.

My Five Year Anniversary Experience @ Kog!

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 21:51:40 +0000

The 81st minute passed and then the 82nd, still 1-1. The entire Emirates stadium stood tense, cheering, yelling, singing, as the full-time whistle and a deflating tie loomed. With only seconds to play, the ball was corralled by Arsenal’s Granit Xhaka at the top of the box and instantly seemed to explode off his famous left foot. All you could see was the ripple of white netting as Arsenal took the lead over Manchester United. The crowd erupted. I erupted. With a hoarse voice and beer-soaked attire, I hugged countless strangers as the final whistle sounded. Arsenal had won!

This was my "Five Year Experience."

Three weeks prior to game day, I was driving home from the Kogquarters when Kognitiv’s CEO called and asked what I was doing for the Arsenal v. Man United game. He essentially said to grab my wife, pack a bag, and get over to London (yep, we're talking international travel). We had discussed Five Year Experiences, but I was still in awe at the opportunity to cross something off my bucket list.

Aside from my first Premier League game, my wife and I were able to explore London for a few days and take in some of the touristy and not-so-touristy activities, making our time truly memorable. I attribute our experience to Kognitiv and the company’s endless pursuit to put employees first. Kognitiv understands that employee happiness comes from appreciating and recognizing the amazing work employees do. Celebrating five years with the company by being offered a bucket list experience is more valuable than a cash payment or material gift. It shows the company sincerely cares about you, your contribution, and connects the company with employees on a more personal level.

Creating a "Five Year Experience" offering is a bold move, especially as the company ages and there are more and more employees hitting those milestones annually. It just goes to show how much employees are valued and Kognitiv's extreme element of care for employees. The "Five Year Experience" has become a fantastic moral boosting and culture building benefit—even new employees are talking about where they want to go and what they want to do for their "Five Year Experience". I personally am grateful (and still partially in disbelief), and I am excited to see the rest of Kognitiv employee's experiences over the years to come!

"If given the chance, what would you check off your bucket list?" Kognitiv provides a "bucket list opportunity" to employees upon their five year anniversary - something an employee has always wanted to do but may not have prioritized. This enables Kognitiv to thank employees in an incredibly unique, personalized way for their contributions to the company over the years.

The Story of My Kognitiv Tattoo

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 15:20:42 +0000

I got my first tattoo at the ripe age of 35. (Yes, I’m going to talk about body art for a minute with you but stay with me! There is a punchline!)

I was never for or against “tatts”, but I knew that I would never get one unless I was utterly positive it was the right one for me. When I finally made the decision, it came to me so easily that I didn’t hesitate whatsoever. The appointment was made, and nearly as quickly as I’d decided what to get and where to get it, it was done and dusted. A few years later, the one question I’m asked about it is, “why that particular tattoo”?

I said I wouldn’t get one unless I was positive it was right for me, and I meant that. I’m aware that it’s permanent. It cost me hard-earned money. I’ll have to explain it to anyone who sees it, for the rest of my life. At age 90 it may not look as nice.

None of that matters, because the tattoo means something to me on a deeply internal level. I know I can look at my left, inner ankle and be reminded of what caused me to feel so strongly about getting it. It isn't just art; it is a memory of something that positively impacted my life.

Let’s fast forward to 2021. I made the decision to leave my job at a top Canadian employer to grow my Workday career. It was the right change at the right time, even though my extrovert self would miss seeing real, live people every day by moving to a remote job. I wasn’t wrong and to prove it, I got a Kognitiv tattoo!

“Why would you get a tattoo of your company’s logo, Dana?”

First, I’ll remind you I said I had to feel positive that having related art permanently inked on my body was right for me - that the impact was so great, it was a no-brainer. This is why a Kognitiv lightbulb is now tattooed on my right, inner arm.

Kognitiv is a company run by consultants. I work for people like me, which means they’ve been in my shoes and want to hear me out. I feel like a team member, not a "cog" in a wheel (pardon the pun).
Kognitiv is 100% okay with being different, and in fact, I think they want to keep it that way. I could write an entire blog on “why I’m different”. The point is, I don’t want to fit in, but rather want to be accepted and appreciated for the different things I have to offer. Not standard or out of the box. Unique, interesting, and an individual.
Kognitiv hired me because they saw I had some skills to offer and would fit (at least mildly) into their culture. I decided to stay when I realized they mean it when they tell us to “Act like an Owner”. A type-A Aries Firstborn will never say no to taking charge of something. Add in a huge sprinkle of Workday and I’m sold. Some days I wonder why I care so much, but then I sit back and realize (time and time again) it’s because Kognitiv values my opinion.

I call myself #TheSocializer and the #KogKonnector for fun, but I’m just a hype-girl that has developed a genuine affinity for her employer because of what they offer. Getting inked was a reward! No matter where I end up in life, when I look down at my arm I’ll be reminded of the positive and collaborative culture, as well as the myriad of endless opportunities in the Workday ecosystem, and I’ll happily advertise my Kog tatt!

Kognitiv @ Workday Rising 2022

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 21:51:32 +0000

No matter what year, if you ask a Kognitiv employee what one of their favorite events is, Workday Rising is always top of the list. Although we go to learn about new features, roadmaps, and network with fellow Workday nerds, ultimately, the event is a fan favorite because it gives an opportunity for a remote company like ours to bond face to face.

This year was the first Rising since the pandemic hit, and we were all so excited. First time Rising-goers were able to feel the spirit that our Rising veterans exude, and speak about year over year. Our Rising veterans made camp in the Braindate area and networked with both existing customers and new connections.

This was also the first year that Kognitiv attended Workday Rising under the Kognitiv brand, and boy did we showcase it big. We hosted our own event with 200+ attendees. We offered a shuttlebus to all conference attendees called the "Kogwarts Express" (name courtesy of one of our amazing employees). We had premium swag, and we loved seeing people walking around the conference wearing our merchandise. It was truly rewarding to see and hear the love people have for Kognitiv and Rooster. We know our company is making a difference within the ecosystem, and all credit is due to our incredible employees.

Workday Rising 2022 - You were a pleasure. We won't forget the team dinner at a Brazilian steakhouse, the late night rides at Disney's Animal Kingdom, nor the dance party at Universal Studios. Thank you for giving us a great reason to bring Kognitiv employees and customers together in a very special way. We look forward to San Francisco in 2023!

The strength of Kognitiv's Workday expertise was on display and validated by our amazing group of individuals who attended Rising. Everywhere you turned, you saw a Kognitiv or Rooster logo and our expertise on display. Our employees are phenomenal, and it showed in a big way. Workday is taking serious notice and has become an ally for our company. They know our business offerings are good for the ecosystem. The future opportunity is IMMENSE. No other company has figured out how to deliver on our model and match our levels of service. Kog Team, we got this!

-Luke Switkowski, CEO of Kognitiv Inc

Celebrating 3 years of Rooster Eggcelence!

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 16:19:55 +0000

This year marks 3 years of being live on Rooster. What is Rooster you may ask? Rooster is an interview scheduling tool that was created to provide a simpler, more comprehensive and consistent way to schedule interviews between the hiring team, managers and prospective talent. Rooster was developed out of a need to help solve interview scheduling problems, and now, 3 years later we’ve been able to assist with 500,000 successfully scheduled interviews with 42 live clients!

When we started Kognitiv we had high aspirations of creating products that would benefit Workday clients. Gap fillers. Rooster is one of these gap fillers, creating a seamless interview scheduling process which saves time, money, and creates a better experience for all parties involved in the interview.

Towards the end of last year, we were fortunate enough to be able to spin Rooster off into its own company due to all of the growth and milestones we were able to achieve. We have received astounding client feedback, which further proved the need to branch Rooster out as its own entity. One of our clients graciously said:

“Since implementing Rooster, the time it takes us to schedule a single candidate with a panel interview has decreased from about 10 minutes to roughly 3.5 minutes. The time we've gained back has allowed my team to spend more time meeting candidates' and hiring managers' needs. We've also been able to get interviews scheduled sooner than we were able to previously, which we anticipate will help us reduce time to fill and ultimately reach hiring decisions more quickly. We've also enjoyed how easy it is to customize our templates, and make adjustments to our process immediately based on feedback, rather than working through more lengthy configuration and testing within Workday.”

In addition to our glowing customer feedback, Rooster has recently achieved the Enterprise High Performer award by G2, the world’s largest and most trusted software marketplace. Rooster is ranked amongst the top 5 interview scheduling solutions for Quality Support and Performance based on the responses of real users.

We've had the pleasure to connect with our Principal Software Engineer, who helped bring Rooster from an idea, to what it is today to get a better perspective of the growth and culture of Rooster.

Q. How has Rooster changed and evolved from the beginning to now?

A. When Rooster was released, we had limited features, stability issues, and just two developers. Rod (Chief Technology Officer) and I were the only ones working full-time on Rooster with no QA Team and were testing each other’s code before we deployed it to Production. Since then, Rooster has come a long way, primarily in terms of well-defined processes and division of responsibility. From having just Rapid7 as a client to having over 40, Rooster has exceeded everyone’s expectations.

Q. What's been your most memorable/proudest moment at Rooster?

A. My proudest experience has been my relationship with my Manager and Mentor, Rod. I’ve grown more as a Developer in the past years under his mentorship than I could have anywhere else. Rooster receiving the G2 award comes at a distant second.

Q. Why do you enjoy working at Rooster?

A. There are always plenty of exciting problems to solve, which keeps boredom at bay, along with having a wonderful team that is a pleasure to work along.

As you can see, we are super proud of Rooster and the team and are so happy we get to celebrate 3 years of growth and excellence. We are looking forward to see what the next few years have in store for us!

My Workday Integrations & Advisory Journey

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 15:25:20 +0000

About Myself:

Hello, I am Aman Mathur (the person on the right of the picture), an integration associate manager at Kognitiv. I’ve spent about 9 years in the Workday ecosystem. In these 9 years, I got an opportunity to be an implementer for 6 years, a Workday support consultant for 2 years and now being an advisory consultant for the past year.

During my initial years with Workday, I specialized in the integrations domain and was certified into Workday HCM, Integrations, and Advanced integrations like, Studio, CCB and CCTPP. I got the opportunity to work with some great colleagues at the organizations where I worked, as well as the client team counterparts. I did several implementations for customers in the APAC, EU and NA regions for about 6 years and then one fine day I decided to actually explore how things look on the other side, at a client or a non partner and luckily I stumbled upon Kognitiv and the journey then began.

My journey at KOG:

Believe it or not, at the very beginning of my career at Kognitiv, I was a bit skeptical about how things would turn out for me. Have I made the right decision? Is it really what I think I could do and should do? Trust me, that speculation went away very quickly. As Nelson Mandela once said, “May your choices reflect your hopes, not your fears,” which helps to explain my decision in moving forward.

I started as a Senior Consultant in our traditional Post Production Support (PPS) integrations team and worked there for about a year and a half. PPS was fun, as I started looking at Workday and integrations from a customer’s point of view rather than an implementer’s, which actually made a huge difference. I learnt several nuances of integrations here at Kognitiv, that I somehow missed or did not learn while being an implementer. Things were going well on the PPS side, when one day Luke announced the setup of our Mini Advisory Services team led by Laura Oldham. I read the job description, it sounded exciting and I talked to my manager & the leadership team on the PPS side, and I was moved into our new services offering called “Workday Advisory Services”. I was truly excited as I loved the opportunity to re-join the implementation side of Workday.

Advisory services from an integrations POV:

My journey in Advisory services kicked off just less than a year ago and I think this entire service line is close to my heart (I love what I do and that's what you call passion in work!). As part of the integrations advisory team, I have been helping clients who are undergoing a Workday implementation to make the right decisions in terms of their integration approach, integration strategy and the overall integration testing to E2E and deployment.

When I started putting myself into the clients’ shoes I realized how difficult a simple looking Workday implementation could be for a customer (trust me, I never thought about it while being an implementer or a PPS consultant myself). I have seen challenges with clients understanding the entire terminology & concepts in Workday, where I, as an advisory team member, help them overcome all the hurdles in a structured and orderly fashion.

I have seen them overcoming key caveats using our advisory services, thorough documentation, effective testing strategy, and a detailed knowledge transfer to ensure that it’s a smooth ride post-go live and that there are no surprises later.

The end to end testing cycles have been the most challenging sprint in any of the “advisory” projects I have been involved in. Usually, clients do not have any idea of what's going on in an integration, unless they really see it in action while completing the end to end testing. Getting involved in the end to end testing is not only exciting but it's extremely challenging at the same time, for the client, of course! Since the client teams are stretched thin, it is people like us in the advisory space who jump in and talk to all the functional teams, and structure the integrations end to end testing in an orderly fashion.

Mind you, one little mistake of forgetting an integration test scenario that’s essential for a client can truly mess up the go live and leave the client in jitters. We make it a point to talk with each functional advisory team member along with the client, show them the integration test scenarios and figure out what's not working, what's useful and what are the corner cases that the integration testing tracker is missing.

Now, when everything is in order, it's time to test. As testing begins, you uncover the loopholes in the integrations and that is when testing becomes extremely important. The implementer fixes the gap, we retest and another loophole is usually discovered.

We at Kognitiv, ensure to keep the time of three testing cycles open, to ensure that what's been developed by the implementer is tested several times (recurringly) and then moved to production once everyone is happy. It is the onus on us to ensure that the client goes live successfully and does not face any mishaps soon after going live.

Yet another challenging part on the “advisory” side is the knowledge transfer. Once a client goes live with Workday, they are going to lose their implementation support and it's critical for them and their team to understand the integration functionality well, along with what Workday is doing behind the scenes. It is essential to teach the client about commonly occurring errors, glitches etc, and how to deal with them. I take care of that as part of my current role. I put together effective documentation for the clients, along with flow diagrams, some screenshots and almost all the information essential for them to look for when they are stuck (at least) at the very beginning of the problem. The first level of action as you may call.

Lastly, I would say that being on the advisory team is one of the best places to be. It is like an army of people who help prepare the soldiers for an upcoming war (pun intended). What makes advisory services unique is the “advisory consultants” themselves who’ve actually tested the waters of being an implementer, a client and a PPS consultant and they know what’s critical for the client and what are the essential elements to make them happy. After all, a happy client makes a happy Kognitiv!

My Journey as a New Associate Financials Consultant via the Associate Consultant Program

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 17:37:27 +0000

My Journey to KOG

Hi! My name is Jake Rosenberg and I am an Associate Financials Consultant here at Kognitiv. I started my career in public accounting in 2019 where I audited public company financial statements and internal controls. After 2 years in public accounting, I decided to give industry accounting a shot. I spent a year working as a revenue accountant, but quickly realized I have a passion for helping others while learning the most I can about business. This is when I turned back to consulting for answers.

As you can see (or can’t see), I had no prior Workday experience when applying to Kognitiv. I knew I could provide accounting knowledge, but would they really want someone they would have to teach the system from scratch? How could I troubleshoot a system I haven’t worked with? What value can I bring? These are the questions I would soon start to answer.

My life at KOG

I started with KOG at the beginning of January 2023, and the only thing I knew at that time was “extensive” training will be my only focus for the next 3 months. In training, we learned how Kognitiv started, the company values and mission statement. When Mark Grignon mentioned the core value “Act Like an Owner”, it hit me deep and I knew I made the right decision to join Kognitiv. We spent weeks learning all of the different facets of Workday so we were prepared for client engagement day 1 out of training.

Now that I have completed training and have been engaging with clients since, I started to see the answers to my various questions. In my short time out of training, I have worked on setting up new companies due to an acquisition, created complex financial statements and budget reports for management, and have been a part of many projects. After taking some time to reflect, I realized Kognitiv prepared me and gave me the confidence to take on some challenging tickets. My managers trusted that I would find a solution, and that is a common characteristic managers at Kognitiv emulate. I really felt like I was taking ownership of my own career!

Another aspect of my job that I didn’t expect was creativity. Of course I could configure a business process differently or present a report in another way, but I truly love to engage my creativity in all aspects of my life. At Kognitiv, I have been called on to create a presentation and flowchart for our new product, Close Coda™, provide language for our FIN services offer, and so much more!

Overall, I came to Kognitiv in hope to get back into the consulting ring and help our clients grow, but what I have experienced here goes much deeper than. I get to engage with clients on a daily basis, learn more about business, all while having the opportunity to engage my creativity. Kognitiv started as a job, but has quickly grown into a passion of mine. Each day, I get to embody the core value “Act Like an Owner”, and I have Kognitiv to thank for that!

Koggers in the Community - Boston Athletic Association 5K

Tue, 16 May 2023 15:30:36 +0000

Boston Athletic Association 5K

Over the Boston Marathon weekend on April 15th, I was lucky enough to participate in the Boston Athletic Association 5k with my duo partner Amy Spindler. We raised money for the Gillian Reny Stepping Strong Center for Trauma Innovation at the Brigham and Women's Hospital. The foundation was established by the Epstein and Reny families in the wake of the Boston Marathon bombings after their daughter Gillian was horrifically injured. Grateful for the staff at BWH who saved Gillian's legs, Audrey and her family created the Stepping Strong Foundation which pioneers research directed at trauma treatment and prevention.

Amy is a person with cerebral palsy and is a very medically complex woman, as such she's a huge fan of her doctors and nurses at BWH. I'm an aneurysm survivor who credits BWH with saving my life. Following my illness, I dealt with injury to my spinal cord which led to a new purpose of advocating for the physically challenged community. The Stepping Strong Foundation matched Amy and I together after I ran the 2021 Boston Marathon and now I count the entire Spindler family as close friends. We are both passionate about fundraising for BWH and have run the BAA 5k two years in a row and even co-captained the Stepping Strong team for the 2022 B.A.A. 10k! Amy will be running the 2024 Boston Marathon with a member of the US Triathlon team and I may join them.

Post race photo of the Stepping Strong team meeting.
The young women to my right is Gillian Reny, who 10 years ago nearly lost both of her legs during the Marathon bombing. Her mom Audrey is the chairperson and driving force behind the charity. They raised more than $1.5 million this weekend for Brigham and Women's Hospital Gillian Reny Stepping Strong Center for Trauma Innovation.

In this frame, the person in a running chair mean a lot to me personally. That's the Boston legend Rick Hoyt with his cousin Troy Hoyt. After Dick Hoyt passed away in 2021 members of his family assumed his role and now push Rick. Super cool!

Amy and I with Matt Brown, another local celeb in the physically challenged/para community. His partner is Lucas Carr, they've run the marathon together the past few years, the 5k is their "Warm Up" Great guys!

To learn more about the The Gillian Reny Stepping Strong Center for Trauma Innovation, click here.

You can also support The Gillian Reny Stepping Strong Center for Trauma Innovation through donation to the Brigham and Women’s Hospital

My 5 Year Experience Trip - Writing in Ireland

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 16:00:00 +0000

At Kognitiv, we provide a benefit where once you reach your 5 year anniversary, we will provide you with a bucket list experience. Our BIRT aficionado and Product Lead, Jen Jensen recently came back from her experience trip to Ireland. This blog post is written by Jen herself and recounts her

The best way to capture my 5-year-anniversary experience trip is to relay this conversation:

Me to my retreat-roommate Margaret: “I finished my book!”

Margaret: “You can’t be serious!”

Me at the same time, after seeing the look on her face: “The one I was reading!”

The next 15 minutes was the two of us laughing uncontrollably, getting under control, looking at each other and giggling. I may have even snorted, which may have caused Margaret to begin crying as well. Did I mention all of this took place in the early morning hours at the resort restaurant full of somberly breakfasting travelers? We were overwhelmed with mirth and joy in that moment as we reveled in our newly crafted inside joke. I won’t ever think about or talk about finishing a book without laughing to myself and remembering Margaret and my writing trip to Ireland.

A total of seven writers attended the retreat. We genuinely admired one another’s accomplishments and delighted in learning more about each other. Margaret, from Ireland, was the business manager of her husband’s bustling veterinary practice before she retired. Jody is also retired, but she worked at Apple, Pepsi, Best Buy, and Nike (and was cool enough to know about Workday, since she was the CIO at some of those places). Meghan (pronounced Mee-gan) is a professor on summer break from Minnesota; she started teaching as a second career after selling her chiropractic practice. Jan (pronounced Yan) and Sheila (who is EIGHTY! And wrote the most amazing mini-memoir), hail from Montana, both are also retired, former community college professors. Michelle, from Singapore, is a travel junkie who runs her own private banking firm; she’s not retired yet. Her curiosity about the world and people around her are keys to her success and longevity in a challenging space. As for me, I found it fun to the young pipsqueak again, having spent my first five years at Kognitiv being one of the distinguished eldest.

The facilitator for our workshop was Irene Graham. She did a phenomenal job corralling a roomful of big personalities, getting us to focus on writing based on her framework. Every day she presented us with new tips and ways to build a solidly entertaining and captivating story about ourselves. She helped us see into our own experiences, pulling our observations, humor, and lessons from our memories to the page and giving us the tools to craft them into beautifully worded and powerfully unforgettable glimpses into our histories.

All of this in the setting of the west coast of Ireland. Wild grasses and flowers sprouted from rangy beaches, with the wild Atlantic playing the roguishly handsome main character who might be hero or villain depending on the day. The gusty winds swept puffy clouds across the sky, making the warm days segue into just chilled nights. Each evening boasting the brightness of day until well past 10pm. In case you were wondering how enchanting the experience was, I was also bequeathed the miracle of eight days in Ireland without a single drop of rain. As a person who likes to boast that she single-handedly ended a Southern California drought in 1994 just by moving there, the magic of a precipitation free excursion is nearly enough to make me believe in leprechauns and faeries.

I told anyone who would listen about the incredible company I work for. Kognitiv Inc. has, yet again, given me something ineffable, something remarkable, something memorable. Thank you, Luke and Mark. Thank you, colleagues who have worked while I’ve written. It was an unforgettable and fabulous experience – truly once in a lifetime. One day I will “finish my book,” and when I do, I will have to acknowledge the contribution of Kognitiv, this experience, and my new writing friends and teacher. And the country of Ireland herself.

As I left, I wrote this to capture the essence of my adventure:

The ground of Ireland feels like a home I’d never been to but needed to get back to. I long to return already, just waiting to check my bags for my flight to my family. They have most of my heart, but I leave a wee bit in the land of faeries and greenery and pray that heaven looks so good.

Camp Kog 2023

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 16:49:35 +0000

It was June 14th, 2023, a day full of excitement and hope. What is this day you may ask? Well, it was the first companywide retreat that Kognitiv had organized to celebrate all of our hard work and accomplishments.

All of the Koggers from different parts of the world flew to Quebec City in Canada to meet the people that they have been building and cherishing relationships with through digital platforms/remotely. The happiest moment began when we saw the shuttle waiting for us at the airport to take us to the resort. An experience which I am going to cherish for the rest of my life.

Day 1 was a “meet and greet” time for all of us. All of our kolleagues reached the resort at different times, some flights got rescheduled, some flights got delayed but “yes” – we were still excited to meet each other in-person, meet our team and spend time together. The Kognitiv Founders – Mark and Luke enlightened Day 1 with their presence. An organization where the founders are so grounded and reachable, makes us an employee centric organization all together. Mark and Luke lit up the stage with their professional charm and gave a presentation about Kognitiv and its growth, successes and how far we've come since day one. The idea to build a consulting firm started with 2 people (The Founders) and now we are 200+ employees working from various locations remotely. At the end of Day 1, we were able connect with our colleagues to watch a show and it was such a nice way to start this amazing retreat.

On Day 2, it was more of an activity day for all Koggers. This day was meant to partake in a large selection of activities, on and off the resort. We had a canyon hike, trail hikes, a cooking class, a wine tasting class, yoga, circuit training, circus classes and more. Some of our kolleagues went into Quebec City for some sightseeing, as for many, it was their first time traveling internationally, and for some it was their first-time visiting Canada. Day 2 had “Around the World” themed dinner which meant that all Koggers can dress up based on their nationality/heritage or culture. Kognitiv has always been known for its people centric culture and experiencing this with everyone in-person was a different experience. There were some amazing outfits from different parts of the world adorned by all with some great photo sessions with our kolleagues. The day ended with the nightly show along with a bonfire that was at the resort, and then got back into mixing and mingling with everyone.

Day 3 was another activity day, but was at a much slower pace than the day before. This day was more self-guided - people took to the trails, the pool, hot tub, steam room and gym. There was a soccer match that took place in the morning which was a lot of fun! The resort also had the option to take a gondola up the mountain to get some breathtaking views. A couple of our daredevil kolleagues did a polar plunge right into a creek that was on the resort. Needless to say, we all had a ton of fun being active while also meeting new faces. It was nice seeing people from different teams and disciplines interacting and making connections - this is what we wanted Camp Kog to be about! Our final evening included an awards ceremony where we collectively voted on our kolleagues for various titles. It was so much fun getting to celebrate everyone's accomplishments and recognizing the hard work that we do daily.

It was sad saying goodbye to everyone as it felt like we were just getting started, but I know I can speak for everyone when I say that this was such a special trip - albeit perhaps even a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It really allowed us to see Kognitiv's true culture, and I think as a result, we are even more unified. I know this was not an easy event to plan, so a special shoutout is owed to all of those who worked tirelessly to make this happen - thank you for such an amazing and unforgettable experience!

Once we got home and settled in, we spoke to a few kolleagues who shared with us their experience on the trip, and what it meant to them:

"Camp KOG played a vital role in my continuous contentment with Kognitiv. I think the cultural atmosphere set there was extremely well done, because everyone ultimately works for the clients, so internally we were able to be ourselves and get to know one another on a personal level, free from judgement. I left feeling more connected to Kognitiv and everyone working here. KOG is filled with extremely intelligent brains and I’m delighted to be one of those brains".

"I believe it is “the people” who make the organization. I had a lifetime experience with all the kind and beautiful people out there which I am going to cherish for the rest of my life. “Kognitiv” for me is not only an organization but it’s an emotion and I look forward to creating many more moments and memories with all of you".

"Just when I thought I couldn't love Kognitiv anymore than I already do, Camp Kog happened. Meeting all the peeps I collaborate with on a daily basis and getting to know them in person has deepened my appreciation to be a Kogger and the wonderful friendships that have resulted from being part of the Kognitiv family".

"I had the most amazing experience at Kognitiv's company retreat in Canada. It was an incredible opportunity to finally meet the people I had been working with virtually for so long. The retreat not only provided a refreshing change of scenery but also strengthened the bonds we had formed through out online collaboration. It was an absolute pleasure to connect face-to-face, sharing laughter, ideas, and building deeper connections. This unforgettable retreat has left me feeling energized, motivated and grateful for the incredible team I have the privilege to work with".

All of those thoughts and experiences from our kolleagues make us happier as an organization and in the end, I would say, until we meet again!! Take a look at some of the photos we took to commemorate this amazing experience!

My 5 year Experience Trip - Wimbledon!

Fri, 11 Aug 2023 16:22:25 +0000

For my 5 year experience I was able to tick a big item off the bucket list. My wife and I have always wanted to get to the 4 major tennis championships and we were hugely appreciative to cross Wimbledon aka "The Championships" off the list.

We managed to send the kids off to relatives and hop the pond for a few days. It was a great trip as we joined a bike tour to see the downtown highlights and get some history, tracked down some Indian food in Bermondsey and walked along the Thames.

We ended up finding a pub close to our hotel where we were able to enjoy a Sunday roast and watch matches which determined who we'd see on our Tuesday Quarterfinal's day.

The grounds of Wimbledon were immaculate with blooming flowers and ivy everywhere and had an atmosphere that I can only imagine is the equivalent Masters is to golf. We learned that Wimbledon allows you to bring in food and either a bottle of wine or a couple of beers into the grounds. There were popping champagne corks in the crowd all day.

For you tennis fans, we had incredible corner seats on Court 1 and got to see the eventual Women's Champion Marketa Vondrousova defeat Jessica Pegula in a nailbiter and Jannik Sinner handily beat Roman Safiullin. It was crazy to see live how hard these guys swing at the ball and manage to keep it in. We even got to see some of the invitational doubles with Hingis and Clijsters and was able to catch some of Djokovic's QF match on the big screen from Henman's hill.

Strawberries and cream and Pimms were consumed to have the "proper" Wimbledon experience.

We've been lucky enough to see some evening matches at the US Open and now thanks to Kognitiv we only have Roland Garros in France and the Australian Open in Melbourne to get to.

My Kognitiv Journey - From Consultant -> Project Manager -> Advisory

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 17:48:38 +0000

I’d like to think that my Kognitiv employment journey is not unlike anyone else’s: I came here with a mind brimming with Workday knowledge and a heart ready for some change. With the hope of growth and opportunity, I began working entirely from home for an employer located far outside my commute area.

But as I look back on the last two years, I can come to appreciate that perhaps I’ve taken the less-paved path; being more in tune with what I’ve wanted than what someone else may consider to be the norm.

My journey began in a Business Consultant role, joining a functional team to get more heavily involved with Absence and Time Tracking configuration and support. I did that, among other things, including taking on some clients’ Benefits Open Enrollment for the 2022 plan year. I learned something new every day and constantly expanded my knowledge base.

As the cold Saskatchewan winter began, I was promoted to a Senior Business Consultant role. I easily met the objectives outlined in the job description and proved my work was worthy. At the same time, however, I was already getting restless for more. This isn’t something new for me: I often become satisfied with meeting a minimum objective, and then seek something else to do. Rather than continue excelling at one thing and becoming a so-called Expert, I wondered what else I could offer to Kognitiv.

When, during the December all-hands meeting, the CEO suggested to all staff that any internal employee interested in joining the Project Management team should let them know, I was intrigued. To an extent, I understood what a PM’s role was on a project and felt that I probably already possessed many appropriate traits and skills. So, I reached out to the team and applied!

Over the next 15 months, I spent some time supporting projects for Absence and Time Tracking but was mostly focused on leading an internal Advisory team and a client’s Finance team through their Workday Launch implementation. I learned a lot: about Finance, about working with Partner firms, 3rd party consultants, and project managers, and that I missed being in Workday every day. To put it simply, I had FOMO (fear of missing out) for things no longer part of my job description. Although I was able to use my past experiences as a functional HR user, Workday configurator, and project manager to the best of my ability, I found the work lacked satisfaction.

I also found that Kognitiv just wanted its employees to do what they loved and were good at. It made no sense, on both a personal and professional level, to continue slogging through the parts I didn’t like with the hope I’d still get to do things I did like. So, I asked to make another change, which led me to the Implementation Advisory team where I am right now.

My current role takes aspects of all my prior Workday experience and expands on them, granting additional opportunities to continue learning and growing. I’ve been tasked with doing system configuration, offering implementation advice in the absence and time tracking modules, training client-side HR Partners, and developing connections and positive client relationships. I’ve also maintained my role as the Kog Blog Manager, as a Coach for the last two associate classes, and as a member of the growing Social Media Marketing Club. I recently presented at Kog Connect 2023 and continue to recruit like-minded Workday professionals to our company. I contribute in a variety of ways; wherever I feel I can add value!

Who knows how long the current feeling will last considering the trend of my professional career, but it really shouldn’t matter. I’m focusing on doing my best work right now, giving it my all, and seeing that my clients are happy and continue doing business with us, even after my team’s work is done. And I’ve yet to hear “boo” from my employer about my decisions.

What I’d like you to get out of this blog is that you can do anything you want at our company. A Kognitiv employee is intelligent, unique, and creative. If we’re unhappy, we’re honest about it. If we want more, we ask for it. There may be career paths laid out for every single Kogger, but they’re options rather than requirements. No one has ever said that it’s not okay to go from one team or role to another; leadership just wants us to use what we have to make ourselves – and the company – better.

If you’re looking for a place that lets you be you, maybe our water cooler is the one you should try drinking from!

From Nervous to Networking Pro: How I Conquered My First Workday Rising Conference

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 19:14:14 +0000

Attending a conference can be an overwhelming experience, especially if it's your first one. I was no exception to this. I remember feeling nervous and unsure about what to expect when I registered for my first Workday Rising conference. Little did I know that this experience would change my perspective and transform me into a confident networking pro.

I arrived at the conference with my Kognitiv family with me but still feeling out of place and unsure of myself. But as soon as I entered the crowd, I realized I was not alone. Everyone was there to learn, share ideas, and make connections. I started small by introducing myself to a few people and engaging in small talk. I quickly realized that everyone was in the same boat. We were all there to learn, network, and make new connections.

The conference program was packed with interesting sessions, speakers, and vendor booths. However, I found that the most exciting and rewarding area was the Braindate area. Braindates are opportunities that enable individuals to engage in one-on-one or small group interactions. Essentially, you share the topic you wish to discuss, and someone else who shares your interest connects with you to learn more about your expertise. This is where all the excitement was for me. I was able to meet many people, share ideas, and help collaborate on issues that other users were having. It was the most rewarding part of the entire conference for me.

At the end of the first day, I was exhausted but exhilarated. I met so many people, learned new things, and made valuable connections. The second day was even better. I felt more confident and comfortable striking up conversations with strangers. By the third day, things were starting to wind down, but I still made even more connections. By the end of the conference, I had exchanged information with several attendees, connected with them on LinkedIn, and even made plans to meet up with some of them in the future.

Looking back, I realized that attending that conference was one of the best decisions I ever made. It gave me the opportunity to step out of my comfort zone, learn new things, and connect with like-minded individuals. It also taught me the importance of networking and building relationships in both personal and professional settings.

So, if you're feeling nervous about attending your first Workday Rising conference, don't worry. Just remember that everyone is there for the same reason, and you have nothing to lose by introducing yourself and engaging in conversation. Who knows, you might meet your next business partner, mentor, or friend.

From College to Kognitiv -> My Early Careers Journey

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 15:10:19 +0000

Remember when you were little and were scared to ride that big roller coaster for the first time? You would stare at it, contemplate going on, talk yourself out of it, then into it, and then finally muster the courage to get on? It’s a scary choice, but once you get on and it starts going, you feel thrill and excitement! And once it’s over comes the rewarding feeling, the feeling of pride and accomplishment.

Entering the workforce, changing careers, or trying something new can often bring back those same feelings of big scary roller coasters when we were kids. A key factor in getting on the roller coaster and feeling that sense of reward is landing a great fitting role at a stellar company. For new grads, having a workplace that invests in you, furthers your growth, and advances your career is essential to growing personally and professionally, and Kognitiv Inc.’s Associate Business Consultant program is exemplary of these qualities.

I started at Kognitiv after graduating from college, having a degree in Business Management, little experience with People Operations work, and no experience in information systems or Workday configuration. During my interview process, I was shocked that I was never asked about my prior Workday experience or knowledge; they were more interested in getting to know me, my character, my values in the workplace, and my thought process and problem solving skills. It quickly became clear to me that they weren’t hiring someone who could just do the job, they were looking for someone who was a right fit for the team and company. I knew this was the right place for me.

Since starting at Kognitiv, these values have shown through in every bit of my work. Kognitiv values me as an employee and actively takes interest in my career growth and professional development. I am working for a company that invests in me, that allows me to step into my work every day, and enables me to be ready to take on what’s ahead of me and be able to feel good about the work I am doing. This is how Kognitiv accomplishes its mission of developing talent and building a business model that is driven by ideas, not bureaucracy.

My workday (pun intended!) looks different every day, but there are a few things that I can count on happening on a regular basis: collaborating with fellow Koggers to troubleshoot and problem-solve, team meetings filled with laughs and partnership, and someone always (and I mean always) ready to jump in and help when I get stuck.

It’s easy for successful companies to soon start prioritizing numbers over people, but not here at Kog. Kognitiv leadership consistently emboldens the minds of employees company-wide by encouraging ownership over our own work, investing in our careers, and empowering us as people. Kognitiv makes it easy to get on that big scary roller coaster for the first time by encouraging employees to take on new challenges and methods of problem solving, while providing all the safety measures they need to be successful. The excitement of new and unique problems and coming up with creative configuration solutions to support my clients makes this job fulfilling. I couldn’t think of a better place to start my career in the Workday ecosystem than at Kognitiv Inc.

Attending my first Workday Regional User Group

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 17:00:00 +0000

Guess what? It finally happened! I had the incredible opportunity to attend my very first Workday Regional User Group Meeting, and to top it off, it took place right here in my home province of Quebec.

As a proud member of the Kognitiv team for over a year, I hold the distinction of being their inaugural employee based in Quebec. This made participating in our local RUG event all the more meaningful to me—not just as a representative of Kognitiv, but also as an enthusiastic member of the Workday community.

To add an extra layer of excitement, we decided to co-sponsor the event. It felt like the perfect occasion to introduce both myself and our organization to the Workday community in Quebec.

In the days leading up to the event, I embarked on a road trip to Kognitiv HQ in Boston to pick up some swag. I was determined to ensure that everything was perfect for our local RUG debut.

While my colleagues had shared stories of their experiences at RUGs across the US and Canada, I had no idea what to expect. Much to my delight, it turned out to be an amazing experience filled with engaging conversations and valuable content. I was fortunate to have 3 colleagues attend the event with myself, one traveled from New York, and the other 2 are also fellow Quebecers. Attending as a team made such a great impact and allowed us to demonstrate our expertise and professionalism together.

Having spent the past year developing connections in Quebec, it was gratifying to finally meet face-to-face, shake hands, and establish new connections.

Despite my love for remote work, I was reminded of the irreplaceable value of human connection. It allows for deeper relationships, a better understanding of clients' operational reality, and, of course, the effortless building of rapport.

I'm eagerly anticipating the next RUG event—bring it on!

From Stagnation to Success: My Journey with Kognitiv

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 16:34:31 +0000

I started my career journey with Kognitiv back in May 2019. At that time, I had been a Business Analyst on the Workday client side for 6 years, and things were beginning to feel a bit stagnant. It was actually one of the consultants who had worked on our Workday implementation, who first planted the seed in my mind that I had what it takes to cross over into the world of consulting. That said, I lived in a rural area, my family life and obligations would not have allowed me to relocate or travel, and remote consulting gigs for a new consultant were hard to come by. I ended up applying to only two Workday consulting companies – the one that the implementation consultant worked for and Kognitiv. I wasn’t familiar with Kognitiv at the time, but had randomly found their job posting online and decided to apply.

Despite my consultant friend submitting an employee referral for me, I never got a callback from that employer, who I might add, was a very large and well-known player in the ecosystem. I did, however, get a call from Kognitiv. I was pleasantly surprised when I quickly realized that the person on the other end of the line, as well as his co-founder, were actually two of the consultants who provided us with Workday PPS (post production support) services after our go-live! Despite Kognitiv being a smaller company and newer to the ecosystem at the time, I decided to take a leap of faith and jump into the world of Workday consulting when I ultimately received a job offer for a remote position.

I was hired on as a Business Consultant, but was promoted to a Senior Business Consultant within a year, after demonstrating my value and expertise. Things were going well, and I was really enjoying my time at Kognitiv. However, about two years in, I had two major life events occur, which made it difficult to fully devote my time to working for Kognitiv full time – my husband and I had our second baby and we also started a small business. As my maternity leave was coming to an end, and I was already feeling the pressures and demands of these new additions in my life, I made the very difficult decision to end my employment with Kognitiv.

I called our supportive HR Manager, explained my situation, and informed her that I wouldn’t be able to return to work. Lucky for me, Kognitiv is an employer who truly values their employees, and they weren’t willing to let me go that easily! The HR and Management team demonstrated their compassion and flexibility by suggesting that I could return in a part-time capacity, and asked me to talk it over with my family. Prior to submitting my resignation, I had actually considered asking if part-time work could be a possibility, but prematurely jumped to the conclusion that due to the nature of our work, that just wouldn’t be possible. It was truly a great feeling to know that my employer valued me enough to make accommodations in order to keep me with the organization, and I was relieved to find that they never tried to make me feel guilty or pressured about my decision.

So, over the course of the next two years (yes, two YEARS), Kognitiv allowed me to work for them as an independent contractor, working a set schedule two days per week. The great thing is that even though I was now technically a part-time contractor, I still felt like I was a Kogger. Now, nearly 5 years after I initially started working for Kognitiv, things have come full circle, and I returned as a full time Principal Business Consultant this past August. Although many things have changed at Kog since the beginning of my journey, there remains one constant – that Kognitiv is an employer who sincerely cares about their employees, and does their best to offer a flexible and supportive work environment for everyone.

Empowered Growth: My Story at Kognitiv

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 18:09:24 +0000

I stumbled upon Kognitiv like finding a hidden treasure. It all started when one of our talent partners reached out to me on LinkedIn with an intriguing job opportunity. I had my doubts, but after hearing glowing reviews from the current employees, I knew I had to explore this opportunity further.

As my application progressed, I was impressed by their quick and efficient communication and processes. From the initial message on LinkedIn to the subsequent interactions, everything flowed seamlessly. It was evident that they valued clear and prompt communication, which made the entire process smooth and reassuring.

One thing that particularly stood out to me during the interview process was their game-changing interview scheduling system, Rooster. The way it made scheduling effortless for both me and the interviewers was remarkable. It was my first experience with such a tool, and I was struck by its simplicity, effectiveness, and transparency. This thoughtful approach to accommodating candidates' needs set the stage for what was to come.

Transitioning from a role focused mainly on implementations at partner firms to a post-production support role at Kognitiv was a significant change for me. However, my manager and the team went above and beyond to ease my transition, providing support and guidance at every step in my journey. As I was settling into the role, I also realized that, at Kognitiv, I wasn't confined to one narrow niche. Instead, I was encouraged to explore different areas, stretch my skills, and try new things. The diversity of projects available at Kognitiv presented me with fresh challenges and learning opportunities. From troubleshooting technical issues to implementing innovative solutions, no two days were the same.

At the heart of this journey were the support initiatives of Kognitiv—shadowing, partnering, and office hours. These weren’t just fancy programs—they were practical tools that helped me navigate the twists and turns of my role. It has been through these initiatives that Kognitiv has facilitated a smooth transition for all employees, regardless of where they were in their Workday journey. These support initiatives proved to be invaluable assets for me. They helped me learn the ropes, tackle challenges head-on, and ensured that I set myself up for success.

Let me share a sneak peek of how these initiatives at Kognitiv truly made a difference for me.

Shadowing allowed me to observe and learn from experienced colleagues as they navigated various tasks and challenges. By shadowing them, I gained valuable insights into the best practices, problem-solving techniques, and the intricacies of our workflows.

Partnering with experienced colleagues was equally transformative. One of the most impactful aspects of partnering was the assurance that came with it. Whenever I found myself working on something entirely new, someone experienced in that area would be there to guide me. This not only provided confidence but also ensured that I could deliver high-quality work, even in unfamiliar territory.

Office hours provided a platform for continuous learning and knowledge-sharing. Led by experts in their respective fields, these sessions were like mini masterclasses in everything from problem-solving to industry trends. It was a chance to learn from the best and connect with colleagues who shared my passion for growth and development.

These initiatives made it clear from the start that Kognitiv was more than just a workplace—it was a supportive community where everyone was invested in each other's success.

Reflecting on my journey thus far, I am grateful for the opportunities, support, and friendships that I have found at Kognitiv. Each day brings new learning experiences, and I am excited to continue growing and contributing to this remarkable community.

Navigating the Work-from-Home Transition: Lessons Learned and Tips Shared

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 16:00:00 +0000

I began working from home after spending several years doing short-term on-site consulting. It was a relief to work from home – wherever I wanted to be – after living in sublet apartments for six months at a time. Of course, I still had to travel. Sometimes I was in a hotel more than two weeks a month. Driving and flying all over the country got tiring. At the end of 2019 I decided to take a new role in an office. You can probably guess what happened a few short months later. My company, along with many all over the world, decided to have everyone who could work from home, work from home. Changing from working from home and travel, to working in the office, to working only from home so quickly has given me a unique perspective.

My biggest irritation with working in an office has always been the commute. The last time I had a commute under 30 minutes I was in college. I’ve walked in the snow and ice. I’ve been stuck on a train that lost power. I’ve waited in standstill rush hour traffic for over an hour in a less than reliable car only to get to the office and pay for parking. Once you’ve worked from home, you really do get used to things being more convenient and pleasant.

Even when I have back-to-back meetings, I can quickly go to the kitchen and grab lunch, a snack, a cup of tea, run to the bathroom, take the dogs out, or grab the mail between meetings! During cold and flu season I’m not around people who insist on coming to the office even though they’re sick so I’m not catching germs and I rarely get sick now. I no longer get headaches from fluorescent lighting. I don’t wait in line to heat up my lunch and I rarely spend money on takeout for lunch. The cost savings on gas, car maintenance, painkillers, and takeout really have added up.

There are also things that are convenient for me, that might not be for you. For instance, I always have a TV show or movie going on in the background. Most of the time I know what it is but it’s not something I’m focused on. It’s more to distract from the other noises: neighborhood kids, my dogs, neighborhood dogs, the mail carrier delivering mail, other people in the house. I’ve tried listening to music, many of my coworkers listen to music while they work, but I’ve found I pay attention to the music, where the TV I usually forget is on. I don’t wear shoes. I wear slippers. But shoes of some kind are probably a better idea. Several months after COVID-19 started, foot injuries were up! People were tripping at home, and not getting the arch support they needed. So, if you’re accustomed to footwear, keep wearing it.

I’ve made some mistakes while working from home. So, let me share the most important lessons I’ve learned.

Don’t use a regular kitchen or dining room chair. At least not for long. Your back and hips need better support for eight hours a day. I used a dining room chair for 5 years. I should’ve spent money to get even a second-hand chair with more support. It’s good to be comfortable while you work, but things should be set up for you ergonomically. Use things like laptop stands to boost your screens to the right height for you and a keyboard tray to keep your wrists in a neutral position and avoid repetitive stress injuries.
Have a separate area for work. I’m now using the smallest bedroom in my house as a home office. It’s my favorite room in the whole house. I’m surrounded by books, music, memorabilia, and things I’ve collected throughout my life. I have a laptop rack to safely, and conveniently store multiple laptops. I have large monitors that display multiple screens. If you don’t have the option of a separate room, carve out space that’s only used for your work. Some areas make more sense than others, a corner of the guest room is good, a corner of the kids’ playroom probably isn’t. Your bedroom is a bad idea. I set my large bedroom up with room dividers but after a couple of weeks I was having trouble sleeping. It was so easy to tell myself ‘I’ll just take care of that one thing and then I’ll go to bed’. Of course, that would lead to me doing a few hours of work because it was quiet.
Have a morning routine and stick to it on weekdays. On weekends, have a different routine. And have a routine in the evening, have a set time you regularly plan to be the end of your workday. Of course, there will be times when you need another 30 or 60 minutes, maybe even more a couple of times a year, but it shouldn’t happen often. A 40-hour workweek can turn into a 60–80-hour workweek faster than you’d imagine. It can be very tempting to catch up on email, go over the information you’ve waited all day for, take care of something ‘quick’, but if you don’t need to do it, I encourage you not to. We all need downtime. Disconnecting from work gives our brains a break, keeps us fresher for the workday, and lessens our chance of burnout.
Most likely you don’t need to wear a suit but you should still get dressed in the morning. Don’t stay in your pajamas. Remember, you’re not just at home, you’re working from home. Getting dressed first thing in the morning is better for you mentally, increases your productivity, and makes it easier to do things like go for a walk at lunch or see friends in the evening.
When working from home, whether you’re new to it or you’ve been doing it for years, you might get lonely. Continue to do things to get you out of your home. Try to regularly meet up with friends and family. If you have friends, family, or nearby coworkers who also work from home, suggest meeting with them as a group or individually.

Transitioning from remote work to in-office and then back to working from home has been great and I’ve learned a lot! While working from home has enhanced my senses of freedom and convenience and I’ve easily embraced the perks of an at home office like flexibility and personality, adopting things like an ergonomic setup, a structured routine, and maintaining social ties have been more difficult, but I’m growing in those areas and major changes like this take time, dedication, and persistence. I don’t see myself ever returning to an office on a regular basis. I prefer the peace and quiet of my home office with my style of décor, Supernatural playing in the background, and no fluorescent lighting.

A Mom's Guide to Thriving: Balancing Parenthood and Remote Work @ Kognitiv!

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 17:00:26 +0000

Seven years ago, I embarked on a new chapter of my career journey by joining Kognitiv. Fresh to both the world of Workday and consulting, I stepped into this new role with a mix of excitement and uncertainty. What initially drew me to Kognitiv was the prospect of being able to work remotely 100%, a concept that was relatively novel at the time. The idea of not having to commute or squeeze into work pants again was quite appealing. Little did I know, this decision would shape my professional and personal life in profound ways.

Reflecting on the past seven years, I realize that Kognitiv has been central to all my major life experiences. From purchasing our first home to getting married, and most recently, welcoming our precious baby into the world, every milestone has been intertwined with my journey at Kognitiv. One of the aspects I value most about Kognitiv is its commitment to maintaining a healthy work-life balance, which I've personally experienced. Whether it's attending doctor appointments, taking time off for our wedding, or cherishing those early moments with our newborn, I've always felt supported and encouraged to prioritize my family and personal well-being.

When my son was born, one of the things I proudly shared with my friends was the generous 12-week parental leave offered by Kognitiv. It was truly a blessing to have the chance to fully disconnect from work and focus all my attention on bonding with my newborn. Having that extra time each day to spend with my son is something I treasure deeply, especially considering that many companies don't provide parental leave at all, let alone for such an extended period.

As a first-time mom, I experienced a whirlwind of worries and uncertainties. From ensuring my son was getting enough to eat to wondering if we were doing enough tummy time, the list of concerns felt endless. However, amidst the uncertainties, one thing that brought me immense relief was the Snoo bassinet rental provided by Kognitiv. The Snoo is a smart sleeper bassinet designed to soothe babies to sleep with gentle rocking motions and calming white noise. What truly set it apart was its secure swaddle feature, which attached directly to the bassinet to ensure that my baby stayed in a safe sleeping position throughout the night. Knowing that my baby was sleeping safely gave me invaluable peace of mind.

Kognitiv's offer to rent the Snoo for up to 6 months was truly remarkable. Not only did it provide us with much-needed rest, but it also gave us confidence as we navigated the early days of parenthood. Thanks to this incredible benefit, we were able to approach each day with renewed energy and enthusiasm, knowing we had the support and resources needed to care for our little one.

Returning to work after my maternity leave was a mix of emotions, but thankfully, Kognitiv made the transition seamless. With the flexibility of working remotely 100%, I could still be at home, close to my son, stealing moments for quick kisses during breaks. My team and manager were incredibly supportive, offering assistance and understanding as I settled back into my role. Despite the demands of parenthood, I've never felt overwhelmed or stretched too thin.

Beyond work, Kognitiv fosters a culture of genuine care and support where everyone is valued, whether they're a fresh graduate, a seasoned professional, or a working parent like myself. This sense of community and belonging makes Kognitiv more than just a workplace – it's a place where personal and professional development thrive, and where every employee is encouraged to reach their full potential.

Over the past seven years, Kognitiv has become an integral part of my life. Working from home, often in sweatpants, has provided me with a sense of balance and freedom that I never thought possible in a professional setting. Despite the distance, my role at Kognitiv has consistently challenged me and pushed me to grow. Each day presents new opportunities to learn and develop my Workday skills.

Reflecting on my journey, I'm deeply grateful for the opportunities and support Kognitiv has provided me. Taking the leap of faith to join Kognitiv has been one of the best decisions I've made. As I continue to evolve personally and professionally, I am confident that Kognitiv will stand by me every step of the way, providing the guidance and resources I need to thrive.

Parisian Dreams: A Journey Through the City of Lights - My 5 Year Experience Trip

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 16:59:52 +0000

Life can take unexpected turns, can't it? Before the pandemic, my family and I were seasoned travelers, adventuring across the U.S. and abroad. Then, COVID changed everything. Travel ground to a halt, and while we missed our global explorations, we embraced local getaways. But my journey took another exciting turn thanks to Kognitiv, a company that truly prioritizes employee well-being like no other.

Fast forward to my 5-year anniversary at Kognitiv—an incredible milestone that came with a unique perk: the chance to tick off a dream destination from my bucket list. Our pick? The iconic City of Lights—Paris! Beyond the breathtaking sights like the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe, two passions sealed the deal for us: live music and football (the world's game!).

In Paris, every day was a new adventure. We wandered through charming neighborhoods, lingered at sidewalk cafes watching the world go by, hunted for treasures in vintage shops, savored live music performances, and soaked in the electric atmosphere of a Paris St. Germain football match against La Havre. It was pure magic!

Now back at work, I feel rejuvenated and eager for new challenges. As I dive into projects, I'm already dreaming about the next destination to explore and add to our growing list. Life is full of surprises, and I'm grateful for every twist and turn that comes my way. 🌍🗼🎶⚽

Get Ready, Get Set, Get Moving with Kognitiv!

Tue, 21 May 2024 20:41:12 +0000

Hey there, fitness enthusiasts and competitive spirits alike! If you're anything like me, you thrive on the thrill of a good challenge and the rush of staying active. So, when Jessica, my awesome Kolleague, suggested I share my adventures in staying fit at Kog, I couldn't resist diving in headfirst. After all, who doesn't love a bit of friendly competition, right?

Let me paint you a picture: Kognitiv, Workday support experts, isn't just about crushing it in the (virtual) boardroom. Nope, we've got a whole other arena where we flex our muscles—literally! Enter the Kogfitness Slack channel, our virtual playground for sharing victories, swapping wellness wisdom, and cheering each other on. Trust me, folks, it's like having your own personal pep squad at your fingertips and it’s truly amazing to see my Kolleagues achieve great things outside of work.

Now, let's talk about the elephant in the (virtual) room: remote work. Don't get me wrong, working from the comfort of your own space is fantastic, but it's easy to fall into the trap of being glued to your desk chair. I've been there, done that—back-to-back meetings, deadlines looming overhead—it's a recipe for a sedentary disaster!

But fear not, I have a few tips and tricks for what has helped me stay active, all with the help of my fellow kogmates. Picture this: virtual workout buddies. Yep, you heard me right. One of my Kolleagues and I have formed a dynamic duo, holding each other accountable and kicking each other's butts into gear. It's amazing how a simple message of "I crushed my workout today!" can light a fire under your own workout plans.

And let's not forget about the powerhouse that is the kogfitness channel. It's like a virtual gym, buzzing with energy and positivity. From sharing workout tips to virtual high-fives, this channel is where the magic happens. Because let's face it, folks, we're stronger together.

Finally, at the start of the new year, Kognitiv introduced us to a new platform called MoveSpring. In case you haven’t had the time to Google it by now, MoveSpring is a workplace well-being platform (app) used to create engaging activity & wellness challenges, track engagement, and motivate your people to form healthy habits. With Kognitiv’s employees’ health and well-being being amongst our company’s top priorities, this was a perfect way to get employees around the globe engaged and working towards a healthier lifestyle, together. Since we started using MoveSpring, we have completed two challenges and continue to increase our daily steps, thanks to the app.

And did I mention the healthy dose of friendly competition? Game on!

Navigating New Horizons: Govind Krishnan's Journey with Workday Extend

Thu, 04 Jul 2024 15:38:28 +0000

Have you ever thought “What are the core values I want to have in my line of work?”. I’ve always wanted to make a positive impact in this big blue planet. But of course, things don’t always go precisely according to our wishes. BUT – I realized that we don’t need to have a job that directly makes a positive impact, all we need to do is to change ourselves to do good the best we can with what we have right now. My name is Govind Krishnan. I’ve been at Kognitiv for approximately one and a half years now, and this is my story - so far - of my Workday career.

Beginnings at Deloitte

I was certified as a Workday Integrations consultant back in August 2021, which was the beginning of my Workday career. I joined Deloitte straight from university as a campus recruit. I did not choose Workday; I did not choose consulting either. I worked there for approximately 11/2 years and was very grateful for being there and being part of a great group of colleagues. But I wanted to do more, put myself in tougher situations, and challenge myself. Project implementations took time (which is expected since there’s a lot of ground to cover) but that meant that the rate at which I could grow myself and experience more was slower compared to a fast-paced environment. Since I came from a purely Computer Science background with enough coding and software development experience, I asked if I could do more ‘technical stuff’ within Workday. A few months later, I was given an offer to be Workday Extend certified. Of course, I said yes. And then I immediately got Deloitte’s first FIN extend project (Luck/Timing has a major role in all our lives, I cannot stress its importance enough).

I felt that I was lacking something during my time at Deloitte. Back then, I didn’t fully realize what it was. But now, I can say what it was – meaning. Deloitte being a large company with around 400,000 employees felt quite too big for me to feel that I was a part of it. It’s not Deloitte’s fault – I guess I would’ve felt the same even if I joined any other multi-national corporation. I finally decided to leave the company, but I knew that if I joined any other big corporations, I would feel the same. So, I decided to take a leap of faith and join the Kognitiv team.

Life as a Kogger

I joined Kognitiv on January 9th, 2023. The way things work here is very different to the way things worked up to that point. I no longer had to spend 2 hours travelling to the office and then spend another 2 hours to return anymore. I didn’t have to feel that I’m not growing because of slow-paced work. In fact, I realized that here I had to be much more efficient when it comes to managing my time and work. Implementations are typically billed in a much more relaxed manner but here, since we are doing post-production support, billing had to be much more careful and efficient. While this meant that I had to do more work, I never doubted this method because I know that the clients who are paying us to support them, then reap the benefits of our hard work and dedication. This allowed my moral compass to be more aligned than it ever was before!

Call it perfect timing or luck, Kognitiv was planning on doing its first Extend work around the same time and my arrival was a catalyst to Kognitiv’s entry to Workday Extend. In January itself, I started working on our first Extend project. Right now, we have a practice that spans multiple Extend developers and architects with multiple projects that went live and more coming. Sure, Kognitiv would’ve started its own Extend practice even without me at some point – but I am very glad to have been that catalyst it needed.

Aside from Extend, I was able to work on a wider range of integrations which I couldn’t before. I was certified in Financial Integrations, so I majorly worked on FIN integrations at Deloitte. But now, I wasn’t limited to financials. I could do Benefits or Payroll or BIRT, you name it! The overall corporate trend is that we become specialists at the end of our career – we wouldn’t just become a master of one specific thing. Now, whether that’s good or bad depends on how you view it. For me, being a jack-of-all-trades is what I would prefer instead, and Kognitiv is intrinsically helping me be just that.

Personal Reflection and Future Aspirations

Looking back on my journey so far, I am grateful for the experiences and opportunities that have shaped my professional growth. Each career move, from Deloitte to Kognitiv, has been instrumental in refining my skills and aligning my career path with my personal values. At Kognitiv, I have found a sense of fulfilment and purpose, including a commitment to making a positive impact on both my organization and the broader community.

As I continue to evolve in my role at Kognitiv, I look forward to further expanding our Workday Extend practice and driving innovation in Workday solutions. My goal is to continue leveraging my skills and experiences to deliver tangible benefits to our clients, empowering them to achieve their business objectives. I feel very comfortable here and I know that I am making a greater impact on the company as well as the clients that we support.

Remote Work Bliss: Navigating Summer with Kids Thanks to Kognitiv’s Support - By Amanda Munroe

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 20:26:45 +0000

Although I’ve been attempting to explain it to them their whole lives, my children still don’t understand that adults don’t get a 10-week summer vacation from work as they do from school. Sound familiar? As soon as school is out for the summer, I constantly hear phrases like these… “Can you take us swimming now? Can we have friends over today? When are you done working? Can you drive me to…” But thanks to Kognitiv’s flexible remote working structure, the full support of my team, and trust from my leadership, my whole family found a happy medium: A modified schedule working from a lake house to meet everyone’s needs!

When I found Kognitiv in 2019, I was literally Googling “remote Workday jobs” every day. I was burnt out from the 2.5 hrs of commuting and scrambling to pick up kids from daycare on time after sitting in traffic, at the whim of so many variables I had no control over and I wanted to take charge of my life. That daily stress and minimal quality time at home was very unhealthy, to the point that I started having migraines for the first time in my life. (P.S.A. - if your job is causing health problems for you, get out now and don’t say “I’ll give it another year” like I did.)

However simple my search terms, there just weren’t a lot of options to fit my “dream job” description at that time. There were only so many options in Maine, Covid hadn’t hit yet so remote work wasn’t popular then, and I couldn’t be one of the amazing traveling “road show” Workday consultants I admired so much while I had young twins at home.

This one name that kept coming up in my Google search was “Kognitiv,” based in Newton, MA but fully remote, and it just seemed too good to be true. I was interviewing with a few other local companies in Maine but they all wanted at least 3 days in-office which still meant 2.5 hours commuting plus a daycare center raising my children on my behalf. So I threw the dice and applied at “Kognitiv”! Shortly after, I received this email from “Luke the CEO” saying he’d like to interview me. Yeah right! So many red flags are going off at this point. Does this company even really exist? CEOs certainly don’t do interviews for this entry-level role, and definitely not the initial phone screen. Surely they are about to ask for my Social Security and credit card numbers next, right?

So I’m very guarded at this point but take the chance, and it turns out my dream job and dream company do exist! The CEO was interviewing every candidate himself to ensure he was hiring people that would embody the critical value of “act like an owner,” and building out the employee-first collaborative culture that he knew was needed to attract and retain top talent in the Workday ecosystem. Amazingly, after interviewing with 4 others and worrying I did horribly on the technical, we all agreed it was meant to be and they took a chance and hired me! I’d finally found a company and a manager that not only trusted me to work on my own terms with a flexible schedule, but even emboldened employees so much as to create their own paths and fostered our ideas to grow the company from within.

I’ve now been working remotely with Kognitiv for over 5 years and I don’t know what I would have done without this amazing company during the pandemic. At any of my previous jobs I’m sure I would have had to quit in order to manage the chaos at home during those years. I ended up homeschooling my twins for second grade, and was still able to work full time on a flexible schedule of my own determination. Kognitiv has always trusted employees to get our work done and do our best every day, so we are able to set our schedules and work from anywhere. Our founders developed our core principles around “employees first” and that is still true to this day.

As much as I love the remote work life, I've recently begun to realize how important it is to set firm boundaries and make sure you get out of the daily routine from time to time. I was starting to feel in a bit of a rut and realized I’d barely left the house since the kids finished up school and spring sports in mid-June. So one week in July, amidst the barrage of, “can we go swimming?” type questions, we spontaneously decided to pack up and move to a lake house for the week! We enjoyed…

Sunrises, sunsets, and epic lightning shows (even better than the fireworks on July 4th!)
Coffee and reading on the dock each day, followed by a morning swim and cooking breakfast together
Mid-day work sessions while kids get to take a rest break from the sun and have play time with their friends
Picnic lunches together and afternoon swims
Evening kayaking and watching the loons with their babies
Staying up late playing cards while screening some classic movies my kids had never heard of
Kids enjoying their summer vacation and sleeping in late while I catch up on work from the balcony or dock again in the morning
And repeat!

As my kids are entering middle school, it feels more important than ever to connect with them, and this whole week at the lake allowed all of us to break from our home routines and enjoy each other’s company more, while still fulfilling my commitments to my team and clients as well. I communicated my set working hours in advance with full support from my manager. I had my whole team to lean on and cover things that may come up while I’m offline, and I didn’t feel like I needed to check my phone for Slack messages or emails the whole time we were there. This mutual trust is something I never experienced at other companies before, and I am so grateful for it!

It is too easy to let work consume more of you than it should when it’s always just a few steps away. We all know the trap of, “I’ll just go do this quick email… just one more task… oh I forgot to review that thing today…” that can lead you down the rabbit hole and soon you’ve lost all track of time, it’s gotten dark outside and you’re somehow having tea with the Mad Hatter. This is your friendly reminder: don’t let the days go by. Shake things up. Find a workplace culture that aligns with your own values and supports employees to have fulfilling lives outside of work.

Thank you to Kognitiv for empowering us to take control of our schedules and allowing flexibility for us as individuals to develop our own unique flavors of life/work balance that meet our needs, preventing burnout and increasing productivity. I can’t wait to enjoy my company-sponsored 5-year “bucket list” life experience, and I may be even more excited for my 7-week sabbatical!

5 Years & 5 Stars: My Unforgettable Employee Experience Adventure to Banff

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 18:15:19 +0000

Whether it was locals or fellow explorers, when anyone asked what brought my husband and I to Banff - their immediate reaction was “what company do you work for?!”

Canoeing on Lake Louise was always something I dreamed of doing, but never in my life did I actually believe that dream would come true. Stepping onto the canoe and paddling through the crystal blue waters not only left me speechless, but made me tear up with pure joy. I have experienced some beautiful scenic places before, but nothing has made me stop and appreciate the beauty of nature like Lake Louise. Day one also consisted of a ten mile hike round trip to the Tea House at Lake Agnes. On the way to the Tea House, we stumbled upon the small Mirror Lake. This glacier made the lake reflect the beautiful Big Beehive Rock trail. I was only daring enough to dip my feet in the icy cold water, while my husband did a full polar plunge! Once we arrived at the beautiful Lake Agnes Tea House, we stopped to once again take in the breathtaking views of the crystal clear waters that reflected the snow capped mountains that surrounded us. After the full first day of adventures, my husband turned to me and said, “today has been hands down one of the best days of my life.”

Day two’s weather didn’t stop us from getting out and exploring the next destination on the itinerary (yes I had an itinerary). Lake Moraine is tucked away even higher in the rocky mountains than Lake Louise. Although the wet weather didn’t allow us to canoe on the lake, the lakeside trail still provided picturesque beauty with each step we took.

On our way back to Banff, we took the exit for Johnston Canyon. While this destination seemed a bit more crowded than the other locations, once we passed the Lower Falls and made our way to the Upper Falls the crowd thinned out.

The rain was a blessing and a curse. Banff National Park and the surrounding Canadian National Parks had been suffering from a heat wave which sparked wildfires in the northern National Park of Jasper. The wildfires were so extreme to the point where the town was evacuated and they pulled out the first responders. Not only did the rain fail at putting out the flames, it also flooded the surrounding areas with smoke causing poor air quality and decreased visibility. What was beautiful to see was the local businesses immediately coming together to raise funds to help Jasper National Park and the businesses that were suffering from the wildfires.

Meet my new friend Mustache Montley! This good boy guided me on a two hour horseback trail through Banff National Park. During the trail ride, we experienced nature's beauty of the Bow River flowing beside us, bald eagles soaring above us, and wild Elks grazing around us.

Our fourth day we needed to pivot from the scheduled plans due to the wildfires in Jasper. A local bartender recommended us to venture up to Yoho National Park’s Takakkaw Falls, and what an amazingly beautiful recommendation it was! Not only did the drive itself have jaw dropping views, but once we arrived we were once again left speechless and engulfed in nature’s natural beauty. Sitting at 1,224 ft, Takakkaw Falls is the tallest waterfall in the Canadian Rockies and the second-tallest in Canada. Not only was the waterfall stunning, but the views from the waterfall were equally beautiful.

Right down the road from Takakkaw Falls another beautiful lake captured our hearts and not only provided lakeside lunch, but also another lakeside trail with stunning views. Emerald Lake’s waters are exactly what you would expect, emerald. Once we reached the furthest point of the lake from the restaurant, we could actually hear the rushing waters of Takakkaw Falls.

I know I have used this word far too many times already, but day five provided us with yet again a beautiful day with spectacular views. Based on the MoveSpring App and the soreness of my legs, Sunday we wanted to relax by a lake and soak up the sun. We looked up what was close to Banff and stumbled upon Two Jack’s Lake that branches off the larger Lake Minnewanka. After we scarfed down some lakeside breakfast, we wanted to explore the lakeside trail, and I am so happy we did. The lake provided little pockets of culverts that you could sit and enjoy the views, but also splash some glacier water onto your face. Although our intentions were to walk around the entire lake, we decided to turn around once a kayaker in the water said a bear was seen in the area 20 minutes prior. Once we got closer to where we began, my husband reminded me that I said I wanted to take an ice plunge before we left Banff. I am a woman of my word and I did in fact take on the challenge. IT WAS FREEZING.

Even though we had a flight later that day, we had scheduled one last adventure that was sure to test our strength, endurance and my husband's fear of heights. After signing our life away, we harnessed up, put our helmets on and took the second oldest chairlift in North America up 7000 ft to the starting point of Mt. Norquay Via Ferrata. Although the smoke from the wildfires was coming in thick that morning, the views were still absolutely incredible.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you Mark and Luke for this incredible once in a lifetime experience. Not only do I believe the five year experience to be an AMAZING added benefit, but everyone who asked what brought us to Banff also was shocked by the generosity of Kognitiv Inc. To everyone who is a part of Kognitiv - thank you also for allowing my husband and I to check off a bucket list experience. This wouldn't have been possible without the hard work of everyone here at Kog. I HIGHLY recommend everyone to visit Banff and experience the beauty of nature and all that it has to offer.

Here are some helpful links if you are ever looking to plan a trip for yourself:

Canada's National Parks

Banff and Lake Louise

Lake Agnes Tea House

Moraine Lake

Johnston Canyon

Takakkaw Falls

Emerald Lake

Banff Trail Riders - Horseback Riding

Two Jacks Lake

Mount Norquay Via Ferrata

Dining:

Anejo Restaurant

Fat Ox

Brazen

Three Bears Brewery

Banff Social

The Balkan

Wild Flour Bakery

White Bark Cafe

What "Act Like an Owner" Means to Me: Lessons from Experience

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 15:30:34 +0000

If during my interview I'd been asked to explain what “acting like an owner” meant to me, I wouldn't have had a great answer.

Our website states: “We hired you because we think you’re smart, please use that knowledge to help us better this company and speak up when you have an opinion. Good ideas do nothing when left unsaid.”

After more than three years and a few thousand experience hours within Kognitiv, I can more clearly define it and, when I meet with prospective clients or colleagues, I explain it so they know if they'll be a good fit for our company.

More than having an opinion or being an intellectual, acting like an owner embodies this primary characteristic: taking initiative. I'll break this down into smaller pieces to clarify what I mean.

Initiative = Actions

An employer cannot give you the ability to assess and initiate things independently. You have to want to do it. Certain cultures may not inherently embody the ability to take initiative, but at Kognitiv, it's part of our life.

Not waiting to be asked to do something you know needs to be done.

So many actions in life require nothing other than initiation. Look around the room. If you see an empty glass, left out after being used, or notice the floor is covered with your dog's footprints, do you go ahead and take care of the cleanup or wait until someone mentions or does it for you?

The same goes for work at Kognitiv. If a ticket arrives in your queue and you have the time and the knowledge to take it, do so. Own it and see it through. Not only does this provide service to our clients, it displays initiative to the rest of your team.

2. Seeing big-picture and sharing information.

If you're working with a client on an issue they logged and notice something else that's unrelated, it's your job to say something. No one will know about it otherwise, and that's the opposite of acting like an owner. It might be that a client isn't taking advantage of a new feature or functionality, or they haven't set something up correctly, or you identify a cross-functional impact not otherwise noted. Whatever it is, you found it and it's always worth sharing.

3. Trying new things / taking on new challenges

Your leader may encourage you to take on new opportunities to grow your experience, but it's up to you to fully engage and to see other ways to enhance your skills. Fancy trying out a role in a different department? Go for it! Worst case scenario, you decide it's not for you and change back or to something else later, but you undoubtedly gained additional expertise in the meantime. Furthermore, if there isn't a formal opportunity to undertake but you see something you'd like to do, create it for yourself!

Initiative = Opportunity

Taking initiative has given me a view into how I can more easily find my passion. My parents may have come from the age of working at one employer for a lifetime, but there are far too many options nowadays to live like that.

Curating my professional goals around the opportunities I find myself endeavoring in keeps me more engaged. I don't feel stuck as long as I'm always looking for ways to own my career. And trying out new things opens up ways for others to do the same, such as when I moved into a Project Manager role and left a vacancy on my production support team.

Initiative = Ownership

I don't believe that acting like an owner is something we inherently know how to do, but once we figure out what it looks like and learn to lean in, there's really no reason to stop! It quickly becomes a positive, cyclical process of seeing a gap, taking initiative to fill it, and knowing that the result is, in fact, important to both you and your organization.

Mentorship, Management and Motherhood: My Empowering Journey at Kognitiv

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 21:50:54 +0000

Looking back on my three years at Kognitiv, it's amazing to see how much has changed, both professionally and personally. I joined the company as a consultant, ready to learn, contribute, and make an impact. Fast forward to today, and I'm leading a team—something I never could have imagined back when I first started.

My journey here has been filled with milestones that I’m incredibly proud of. One of the biggest shifts came when I was promoted to Associate Manager, which paved the way for my current leadership role. These weren’t just lucky breaks; they were the result of hard work, dedication, and the amazing opportunities that Kognitiv has provided. The support I’ve received along the way—whether from mentors, colleagues, or managers—has been instrumental in my growth.

What makes this story even more meaningful to me is that, during this time, I also became a mom. There’s a common misconception that having children somehow slows down your career, but for me, the opposite has been true. Motherhood has actually fueled my ambition and given me a deeper sense of purpose. I’ve felt more driven, more focused, and more determined to excel in both my career and my role as a parent.

Balancing work and motherhood hasn’t been without its challenges, but I’m incredibly fortunate to be part of a company that understands the importance of flexibility. Kognitiv’s remote work options have been a game-changer for me. When my daughter was born, I was able to take the time I needed without worrying about my career trajectory. And when I returned, I was met with open arms, understanding, and a renewed sense of purpose. My team and managers were not just supportive—they encouraged me to take on new challenges and continue growing as both a leader and a professional.

This balance between work and family has allowed me to thrive. I’ve always been determined to prove that women can excel in their careers while being present and loving mothers. Kognitiv’s culture of work-life balance has been essential in helping me achieve that goal. It's not just about flexibility; it’s about the genuine support for working parents, which has allowed me to maintain my career momentum without sacrificing time with my family.

For anyone out there wondering if it’s possible to have it all, my experience at Kognitiv is proof that you can. Having a family doesn’t have to be a barrier to professional growth. In fact, for me, it’s been a source of strength, resilience, and inspiration. Being a mom has made me a better leader, and working at a company that values growth, flexibility, and family has empowered me to achieve my full potential.

Looking back, I’m so proud of everything I’ve accomplished, both as a professional and as a parent. This journey has been filled with unexpected challenges, rewarding successes, and invaluable life lessons. And while I know there’s still so much more to learn and experience, I’m excited for the future. I can’t wait to continue growing as a leader at Kognitiv, as a mom, and as someone who’s passionate about breaking down the myths around work-life balance and motherhood. The best part? The journey is just beginning!

Discover Why Kognitiv is Redefining Workday Careers!

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 20:00:31 +0000

Discover Kognitiv: Where Culture Meets Career Excellence

At Kognitiv, we’re more than just a Workday consulting firm—we’re a community of innovators, problem-solvers, and collaborators driven by a shared passion for delivering excellence. Our approach to company culture, career growth, and employee well-being sets us apart, creating an environment where employees thrive, clients succeed, and careers flourish.

Why People Choose Kognitiv

When talented professionals consider their next career move, they often prioritize finding an employer that values their skills, supports their ambitions, and offers opportunities to make a meaningful impact. At Kognitiv, we check all these boxes—and more. Here’s why people love working with us:

🤝 Supportive and Collaborative Environment

Our team is made up of over 150 experts across three countries who are as committed to each other as they are to our clients. We cultivate a culture where ideas are valued, challenges are met as a team, and successes are celebrated together.

⚖️ Work-Life Balance That Works

We know life doesn’t fit into a 9-to-5 schedule. That’s why we offer flexible work options, minimal travel, and unlimited PTO. Whether you need to pick up your kids from school or take a mental health day, we’ve got you covered.

📈 Career Growth Opportunities

We believe in investing in our people. At Kognitiv, you’ll find countless opportunities to expand your skills, lead innovative projects, and work alongside some of the most talented professionals in the Workday ecosystem.

🌟 Variety and Challenge

Our consultants tackle a diverse range of projects across industries, giving them exposure to unique challenges and the chance to develop creative, impactful solutions. No two days are the same, and every day offers the opportunity to grow.

🏆 An Industry Leader

Supporting more than 10% of all active Workday customers, Kognitiv has built a reputation for excellence. We’re proud to be a trusted partner to our clients, helping them maximize the value of their Workday investments.

What Makes Kognitiv Different?

Kognitiv isn’t just another employer—it’s a company that redefines what it means to be part of the Workday ecosystem. Here’s what sets us apart:

Built by Workday Experts, for Workday Experts: Our leadership team understands the challenges and opportunities of this industry because they’ve been in your shoes.
Consultant-Driven Model: We empower our consultants to take ownership of their work, delivering results that make a real impact for our clients.
Innovation at Every Turn: From custom Workday Extend solutions to creative problem-solving, we embrace innovation to help clients stay ahead of the curve.
Profitability and Independence: We’ve been profitable since day one, growing organically without outside investors. This independence allows us to stay true to our mission and values.

A Culture That Inspires

Even as we prioritize business success, our commitment to culture remains at the heart of everything we do. At Kognitiv, we believe that happy, supported employees create the best outcomes for our clients. That’s why we:

Offer a fully remote work model, allowing employees to work from anywhere.
Host annual retreats and team-building events to foster connection and camaraderie.
Celebrate individual and team achievements, ensuring that every win is recognized.

Your Career, Elevated

Joining Kognitiv isn’t just a job—it’s a chance to work with a team that values your expertise, supports your goals, and challenges you to reach new heights. Whether you’re an experienced Workday consultant or looking to grow within the ecosystem, Kognitiv offers an unmatched opportunity to thrive.

Ready to make your next career move? Explore our open positions and discover why Kognitiv is the place to be.

Explore Careers at Kognitiv

Inside the Kognitiv Sabbatical Program: A Personal Experience

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 18:00:31 +0000

Seven years ago I left IBM to join a young company called Kognitiv.

I was the tenth employee at Kognitiv back in 2017, this was before we had an office, a supervisory structure, and the big selling point is the company recently started offering health insurance. This was a drastic change from the Workday practice at IBM, but the selling point was simple and convincing. A company founded and run by expert Workday consultants would know how to keep both their clients and workforce happy. So, I took the plunge.

What defined the company then is what I feel remains its identity today - Do great work, take care of your people, and the business will be successful. One of the many ways Kognitiv rewards its workforce is with the Sabbatical Program.

After working here for seven years, Kognitiv provides a seven-week paid sabbatical to all employees. I haven’t been off work for more than 2 straight weeks in over a decade, and I was pretty anxious about it, but I found my colleagues were ready to help, as always.

Such an absence would not have been possible without the tremendous support of my team and leadership - especially Harry Ramachandran and Taylor Malley - who stepped in and backfilled my work seamlessly. I look forward to the opportunity to return the favor to both of them, and many others, in the near future.

So - What to do with the longest time off I've had since college? Go the other side of the world of course!

My wife and I worked up our way north through Vietnam from Ho Chi Minh to Sapa, we stopped through Indonesia to see the Komodo Dragons and swim with Manta Rays, weathered the typhoon season in the Philippines (inadvisable time of year to go), met some college friends for a Sumo tournament in Tokyo, before taking K-Pop dance classes and visiting the DMZ in South Korea.

While experiencing all of the new natural wonders, wonderful cultures, and dynamite food, I had plenty of time to reflect on the last seven years, and realized there is nowhere else I'd rather spend the next seven years. The relationships I've made and the great work we've done have made the time fly by.

Upon returning (once I remembered how to do my job), I felt reinvigorated to continue my Kognitiv journey into the future. Kognitiv is my third gig in Workday consulting, and I’ve sometimes said the day I leave here is the day I quit this line of work. I feel this is now more true than ever. More and more of my fellow Koggers will continue to hit this milestone in the coming years, and I can't wait to see the adventures they go on.

Besides - I need to stick around for the 10 Year/10 Week Sabbatical.

Kognitiv’s Hat-Trick Awards Season: A Celebration of Culture, Leadership, and Teamwork

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 17:03:24 +0000

At Kognitiv, we’re starting off the year with immense pride and gratitude as we celebrate an incredible milestone: winning three Comparably awards for Best CEO, Best Compensation, and Best Company Culture in Q4 2024. These awards hold special meaning for us because they aren’t just awards; they’re reflections of who we are as a company and the incredible people who make it all possible.

A Hat-Trick of Culture, Leadership, and Excellence

Kognitiv was founded on the idea of building a workplace where collaboration, innovation, and authenticity thrive. Winning Best Company Culture is proof that our commitment to creating an environment where everyone feels valued, empowered, and supported is paying off. At Kognitiv, it’s not just about achieving great results—it’s about achieving them together, with passion and purpose.

Servant Leadership: The Secret Sauce

The Best CEO award shines a spotlight on the servant leadership at the heart of Kognitiv. Our leaders don’t just lead—they listen, roll up their sleeves, and ensure every team member has the tools and support to excel. This award reinforces how our leadership embodies our core values, inspiring all of us to bring our best to the table every day.

Powered by People

From delivering exceptional Workday solutions to keeping our operations humming, Kognitiv’s employees are the heart and soul of our success. Their dedication, curiosity, and drive to excel set us apart. Winning Best Compensation reflects our deep commitment to recognizing and rewarding their contributions—because when our people thrive, so does our business.

Why These Awards Matter

These awards are more than accolades—they’re a testament to the culture we’ve built together. They show that when you create a workplace where people feel empowered, supported, and celebrated, extraordinary things happen. At Kognitiv, we’re not just solving problems for clients; we’re building a thriving, collaborative community.

Why Join Us?

Looking for a workplace where your work truly matters? At Kognitiv, you’ll find a supportive environment where your ideas are valued, your growth is prioritized, and your potential is limitless. Joining us means collaborating with some of the sharpest minds in the Workday ecosystem and contributing to a culture that genuinely cares about its people.

The Journey Ahead

These awards inspire us to dream bigger, innovate further, and stay true to our values. To our incredible employees: thank you for making Kognitiv a place where excellence and heart go hand in hand. To future team members: we can’t wait to welcome you into our growing family. And to our clients: thank you for trusting us to be part of your success.

Here’s to a future full of opportunities, milestones, and moments worth celebrating. The best is yet to come!

From College Graduate to the Associate Program: My Journey with Kognitiv

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 21:12:21 +0000

Starting a career right after college can be both exciting and daunting. In June 2023, fresh out of college, I took the plunge and joined Kognitiv’s Associate Program. I was eager to jump into the world of Workday, a leading cloud-based platform for HR and finance. With no prior Workday experience, I learned the fundamentals over several weeks through Kognitiv’s structured Associate Program, which gave me the solid foundation I needed to get started with confidence.

One of the things I appreciate most about Kognitiv is the ongoing learning and growth opportunities. After completing the Associate Program, my team provided me with many learning opportunities, allowing me to grow my knowledge in real-time by working directly with clients. In addition to working directly with clients, Kognitiv has been great at providing supplemental internal training opportunities. I’ve taken various courses to deepen my knowledge across different modules, enhancing my ability to support clients more effectively. The continuous learning environment at Kognitiv ensures that I’m always evolving in my role.

Today, my day-to-day responsibilities change based on the projects I am working on. Some days are full of data conversion and uploads to Workday, some days are all about troubleshooting an issue or finding a creative solution to a customer issue, and other days are busy supporting clients with testing their configuration and providing recommendations. The variety of projects and tasks in my role continuously challenge me and ultimately make me a better consultant.

Through my journey with Kognitiv, I’ve realized my passion for helping clients successfully implement Workday. This wasn't a passion I knew I had when starting my career with Kognitiv. I am grateful that Kog has fostered an environment where exploration, learning new modules, and finding what makes you passionate are encouraged. It is so fulfilling to see the positive impact our work has on clients, especially when everything clicks during a Go-Live.

Looking ahead, I’m excited for what’s to come in my career with Kognitiv. The exposure to different clients, the diverse projects, and the internal support make it an amazing place to start and grow professionally. I’m excited to continue expanding my skill set and contributing to the success of our clients as they navigate their Workday journeys.

From Burnout to Balance: Finding My Consulting Home at Kognitiv

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 13:58:19 +0000

Before joining Kognitiv, I found myself at a large consulting firm, completely burned out just one year in. Coming from the client side, where I had implemented Workday Student, I had the privilege of focusing on a single implementation. This allowed me to ensure the best configuration, troubleshoot problems effectively and provide comprehensive support both during and after go-live.

In my previous consulting role, I was stretched thin across multiple implementations simultaneously and constantly felt like I didn’t have the time to provide the quality and attention my clients deserved. I was often told I was "doing too much" for clients—providing training I "shouldn’t" be offering or documentation that was "beyond the scope." This was a struggle for me, as I pride myself on delivering high-quality work and attention to detail. I believe that training clients is a crucial part of a successful Workday Student implementation, but I quickly realized that such services were not always prioritized.

Beyond the workload, I also felt lost in my previous consulting role. My background is in higher education, specifically small to mid-sized institutions and non-profits, where collaboration and a sense of ownership are key. I missed that sense of family, the ability to truly own my work and the flexibility to provide services in a way that aligned with my values.

That’s where Kognitiv came in and changed everything for me. The founders and consultants here truly live and breathe Workday. We don’t just help clients configure and optimize their tenants—we ensure they have the best possible Workday experience by helping them understand how to maintain their own system. As a consultant at Kognitiv, I have the opportunity to provide advisory services for Workday Student implementations, assisting with decision-making, creating job aids and training staff to ensure they are fully prepared for go-live.

Kognitiv values retaining the best talent and fostering an environment where employees are engaged, challenged and empowered. Here, I truly feel like an owner. I have the freedom to provide high-quality services to clients throughout implementation and post-production, and the ability to develop custom solutions to address existing Workday challenges.Another aspect that drew me to Kognitiv is their approach to consulting services. Having experienced Workday implementations both as a client and consultant, I quickly realized how expensive traditional consulting can be, with rigid contracts and minimum spend requirements.

At Kognitiv, services are strictly pay-as-you-go—no long-term contracts, no minimum spends, no wasted hours.This transparency and flexibility is a real differentiator for clients, and I love knowing that the work I do provides real value without unnecessary financial commitments.

A New Perspective, A Familiar Place: Rejoining Kognitiv

Mon, 05 May 2025 18:02:20 +0000

After spending some time in a client-side role, gaining fresh perspectives and facing exciting new challenges, I’m beyond thrilled to be returning to Kognitiv. Making the initial decision to leave wasn’t easy—leaving behind a company and a team that felt more like a community than just a workplace is never simple. But I was drawn to the idea of exploring a new side of the Workday ecosystem, pushing myself outside of my comfort zone, and seeing the consulting world from a different lens.

And I’m grateful I did. The client-side experience offered exactly what I was hoping for: growth, insight, and a better understanding of the dynamics our clients face every day. I had the opportunity to learn, lead, and stretch my skills in new ways, all of which I now bring back with me. But while I gained a great deal from the experience, there was a part of me that always felt something was missing.

That "something" was Kognitiv.

Throughout my time away, I often reflected on what made Kognitiv stand out. It wasn’t just the interesting projects or the opportunity to work with innovative technology—although those are certainly big perks. It was the people. The culture. The way every team member, no matter where they’re located in the world, shows up with integrity, curiosity, and an unwavering commitment to supporting each other.

Kognitiv has always been more than just a workplace—it’s a space where collaboration is second nature, where leadership genuinely cares about your development, and where your voice is not only heard but valued. The camaraderie here is real. It’s woven into every Slack message, every Zoom call, every brainstorm session that turns into something bigger than anyone could have done alone.

So, when the opportunity arose to return, the decision this time was easy.

Coming back to Kognitiv feels like coming home. I’m rejoining a team that continues to push boundaries, drive innovation, and make meaningful impacts for our clients—and for each other. It’s energizing to know I get to be part of that momentum again. I return with fresh experiences, a new appreciation for the work we do, and a deep sense of gratitude to be back alongside such an incredible group of humans.

I’m ready to jump into this next chapter with renewed purpose and excitement. The road ahead is full of potential, and I can’t wait to see what we’ll accomplish together!

Filament: A New Approach to Workday Support

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 19:27:20 +0000

Filament started as a simple idea to solve a growing problem: traditional AMS support wasn’t meeting the needs of many organizations. Clients told us they wanted something more responsive, more flexible, and more connected to the day-to-day reality of managing Workday.

Clients needed help handling high-volume HR service requests with reliable Tier 1 and Tier 2 Workday support, and the ability to pull in experts when required. They needed people who could jump in quickly, understand the system, and keep things moving, all without blowing the budget. That’s where Filament comes in.

We designed Filament to act as an extension of our clients’ teams. Our consultants respond quickly, work across customer time zones, and lean on the broader Kognitiv network of more than 100 Workday consultants. They are not an outsourced team, but an extension of the client organization. Through structured onboarding and ongoing training, every Filament team member is supported behind the scenes. So even when someone’s out of office, the work doesn’t stop.

Hiring the Right People and Growing the Team

None of this works without the right team. From the start, building a strong group of consultants was just as important as designing the Filament model.

What began as a single hire has now grown into a tight-knit team of several skilled Workday professionals. This growth didn’t happen by chance. It was driven by a clear focus on finding people who not only had the right skills but also fit the culture we wanted to build: curious, adaptable, collaborative, and ready to learn.

At Filament, culture is about more than just work. It’s about fostering a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to share ideas, ask questions, and grow together. Team members regularly connect to share knowledge and best practices, ensuring no one feels isolated even while working remotely.

We celebrate wins, support each other through challenges, and prioritize balance and flexibility. This commitment to culture and growth is best illustrated by the journey of Lily, our very first Filament hire.

Meet Lily

Lily was our first Filament hire, and our first step into the world of Tier 1 and 2 support.

Lily joined us about a year after stepping into the Workday ecosystem, eager to share her growing expertise and her passion for helping others at Filament. She was excited to jump in and help pave the way for her teammates.

Her Workday journey, however, didn’t start off smoothly. In her first role, she had no prior Workday experience and wasn’t sure what to expect.

“I couldn’t understand a word in Workday when I started,” she recalls. “It felt so foreign, I questioned whether I’d made the right decision.”

Determined to give herself three months to figure it out, Lily leaned in by asking questions, learning quickly, and sticking with it. Before long, she went from self-doubt to confidence, and more importantly, discovered that she genuinely enjoyed the work.

When the chance to support Filament came along, it was the perfect fit!

In her role here, Lily worked directly with clients across HCM, Compensation, Talent and Performance, and Security. She became a go-to partner for solving problems, handling requests, and building trust. The work was hands-on, fast-paced, and always evolving, which was exactly the kind of challenge that energized her.

What She’s Doing Now

After a year supporting Filament clients, Lily was promoted into a new role on Kognitiv’s broader consulting team.Today, she spends her time solving technical issues in Workday while supporting larger-scale projects across a variety of clients and industries. She’s working closely with cross-functional teams, digging into more complex use cases, and continuing to grow her skills in new ways.

Why It Matters

Lily’s story reflects what’s possible here. She came in with curiosity and drive, built confidence through hands-on work, and now contributes at a higher level, all in less than two years. Filament gave her a strong foundation. Kognitiv gave her space to keep growing.

Our team growth, culture, and commitment to learning show that Filament isn’t just a support team. It’s a place where people build meaningful careers.