Featuring Sanjeewa Rajapaksa on the importance of networking and talent management

In the competitive realm of business, success is often attributed to elements like strategy, capital, and technology. Yet, Sanjeewa Rajapaksa, a leading figure in Sri Lanka’s business landscape, asserts that there is another critical ingredient: networking. As the Founder and Managing Director of Emerging Media, Board Director of Waters Edge Hotel Colombo and a Director at prominent entities such as XpressJobs and PayHere, Rajapaksa highlights the transformative power of strategic networking in human resources.

Today, Sanjeewa’s companies stand out in their respective industries, not just for what they do, but for how they do it. When asked about the secret to his success, Sanjeewa’s answer is simple yet powerful: “It’s all about the employees. We’ve always believed that the strength of our company comes from the quality of our people.”

The art of hiring, more than just a resume

When it comes to hiring, Sanjeewa’s approach is both intuitive and strategic.

He is well aware that the traditional methods of recruitment—posting a job ad, sifting through resumes, conducting a few interviews—aren’t enough in today’s competitive market. “Too many companies get caught up in the qualifications and experience on paper,” he says. “But what we’ve found is that those things, while important, aren’t everything. The real key is personality. We are looking for people who have the right mindset, who are enthusiastic, and who show a genuine interest in what we are doing.”

Sanjeewa therefore emphasizes the importance of recognizing and nurturing the qualities that make employees valuable to the company. “It’s not just about what someone has done in the past or what degrees they have. It’s about their potential, their personality, and their willingness to grow. Those are the people who will stick with you through thick and thin.”

Adding, he also advocates for a more flexible approach to employee development.

“We need to be willing to invest in our people, to give them the training and support they need to succeed. It’s about more than just offering a competitive salary; it’s about creating a workplace where people feel valued, where they see a future for themselves.”

In practical terms, this means providing opportunities for continuous learning and professional growth. “If someone has the right attitude and a desire to learn, we can train them to be great at what they do. And that’s what we’re committed to—helping our employees grow alongside the company.”

The art of networking, beyond administrative functions

For Sanjeewa, the role of HR extends far beyond administrative tasks like managing leave requests and organizing payroll. He sees HR as a strategic partner in the business, one that plays a crucial role in shaping the company’s culture and future. “HR isn’t just about hiring and firing,” he says. “It’s about understanding the business, knowing what we need to succeed, and making sure we have the right people in place to make that happen.”

One of the biggest challenges Sanjeewa sees in the HR field today is a lack of industry knowledge. “I have encountered too many HR professionals who don’t really understand the business they are in. They don’t know the market, they don’t know who the key players are, and they don’t have a clear sense of what the company needs to grow. That’s a problem.”

Sanjeewa believes that for HR to be effective, it needs to be deeply integrated into the business.

“HR professionals need to be out there, meeting people, building networks, and understanding the industry landscape. It’s not enough to just post a job ad and hope the right person applies. You need to be proactive, to seek out the talent that’s going to drive your business forward.”

Adding, he emphasizes that the days of just posting a job on a website and waiting for resumes to roll in are over. Today’s HR professionals need to be more innovative, using new technologies and approaches to find and attract the best talent. It’s about being ahead of the curve, not playing catch-up.

Final remarks

When asked what advice he would give to HR professionals or those considering a career in HR, Sanjeewa is clear: “Don’t be afraid to think outside the box. The world of HR is changing rapidly, and you need to be ready to change with it.”

He stresses the importance of building strong relationships, both within and outside the organization. “It’s not enough to just focus on the tasks in front of you. You need to be out there, meeting people, building your network, and understanding what’s happening in the industry. That’s how you will find the best talent and bring them into your organization.”

Sanjeewa also encourages HR professionals to embrace new technologies and trends. “We are living in a digital age, and HR needs to catch up. Whether it’s using AI to screen candidates or leveraging social media to build your employer brand, there are so many tools out there that can make your job easier and more effective. Don’t be afraid to use them.”

Ultimately, Sanjeewa’s message to the HR community is one of empowerment and responsibility. “HR has the power to shape the future of a company, but only if it’s done right. It’s about more than just filling positions; it’s about building a team that’s going to drive the business forward. And that starts with understanding people, knowing what makes them tick, and finding ways to bring out the best in them.”