Ricardo Dystant: Marrying skill sets with opportunities
ONE OF the key recommendations for jobseekers in today’s employment market is not only to pursue a career that they are passionate about, but to also pay close attention to where the new jobs are coming from and to focus their skills and efforts accordingly.
It’s further recommended that given the pace at which technology is impacting the workplace, it is important to be flexible with one’s career goals and choices.
For Ricardo Dystant, head of eBusiness at the JN Bank, all key drivers play a key role.
“The world is constantly changing; therefore, you should not be stagnant. One needs to be open-minded and willing to adapt to the environment, to learn and unlearn and relearn,” he said.
He completed a Bachelor of Science degree in Computing and Information Technology from the University of Technology (UTech) in 2005, but Dystant has not worked in any traditional IT Department.
During the course of his 13year career at the former Jamaica National Building Society (JNBS), now JN Bank, Dystant has held various positions in different departments, ranging from customer service to security.
“When I first started at the JNBS, I did a short stint in the branch as a member client satisfaction comes from knowing that, through his efforts, he is contributing to improving the lives of Jamaicans around the globe.
“Nothing feels better than when you implement a new feature that enables a client halfway across the world to seamlessly complete a transaction from their account right here in Jamaica, and they call to say thanks,” he informed.
The Wolmer’s Boys graduate advised young people to become as thorough as possible and “never become complacent”.
“The way the world and technology are going, you must be able to make yourself as unique and as marketable as possible. Therefore, you cannot simply pursue a degree in IT and say well, that’s it. You must be willing to attain a combination of skills to make you more attractive to employers,” he advised.
“And at the same time, once you’re in the role you want to be in, you must constantly ensure that you go back to school to upgrade yourself. Complete a certificate course, attend a conference overseas, read widely and be prepared to work hard,” Dystant said.