In our staff spotlights, we get up close and personal with our amazing Sophos team members.
Up next is Diksha Sharma, Senior Global Escalation Engineer.
Let's Talk Career
1. Can you tell us about your role at Sophos?
My main responsibility involves coordinating and liaising between the Labs and Sophos Support departments. I handle a variety of issues, ranging from potential significant false positives to everyday customer concerns that may relate to detection.
2. How did you get to the role you're in now?
I was campus-placed and started in support, gaining experience across different departments. When a position opened in Global Escalations focusing on malware detection methodologies, customer support and collaboration, I prepared myself for it and successfully transitioned into the role.
My proactive approach and dedication to learning helped me get to where I am now.
3. What inspired you to get into IT and security?
What inspired me to pursue a career in IT and security was a combination of fascination with technology and a deep interest in safeguarding systems and data. I've always been drawn to the dynamic nature of the field and the constant challenges it presents, along with the opportunity to contribute to the protection of valuable information and infrastructure.
Additionally, witnessing the rapid evolution of technology and its impact on society motivated me to be part of the efforts to ensure its safe and responsible use.
4. What do you enjoy most about your role?
One aspect I particularly enjoy about my role is the opportunity to help people. Addressing concerns and resolving issues, whether minor technical glitches or more significant challenges, gives me a profound sense of satisfaction.
Moreover, having the chance to communicate with higher-ups and stakeholders provides valuable visibility into the organization's operations and strategic direction, which I find both insightful and rewarding.
5. What's something you've done during your time in the organization that you're proud of?
When critical situations or vulnerabilities are discovered, we enter vigilant mode. I'm proud of pushing out advisories and ensuring we make the internet a safer place for everyone.
6. Describe a typical day in your Sophos life.
Typically, my day starts with a routine check of my emails and Teams chat, as I often receive cases for mentoring from Labs and Support. Throughout the day, I focus on streamlining communication between Labs and Support by devising efficient processes.
Additionally, I dedicate my time to advancing upcoming Sophos Labs-related projects and coordinating releases to ensure smooth progress and optimal outcomes.
7. What's the best advice you can give to someone who has just started their career?
Don't let the fear of failure hold you back. Identify your areas of expertise and begin learning on the side, just like pursuing certifications. Trust your manager, and be open and transparent about your career aspirations. They'll provide support to help you achieve your goals.
8. What would you do (for a career) if you weren't doing this?
Interior designer or a professional dog walker.
Role in the Sophos Community
9. What's a fun fact about you that you could share with the Community?
When I was younger, I wanted to be a flight attendant.
10. Have you posted any Recommended Read guides on the Community?
Each month, I publish comprehensive updates regarding the Application Control release.
Who is Diksha outside of Work?
11. What are your hobbies outside of work?
I find pleasure in watching movies, indulging in shopping, spending time playing with dogs, and taking leisurely evening walks.
12. What’s something you’re planning on doing in the next year that you’ve never done?
I have a deep desire to venture beyond the borders of India and immerse myself in the diverse cultures of other countries. My longing to explore the world knows no bounds, as I've yet to step foot outside of India.
13. What's one thing you're really good at?
In my role at Sophos, which requires extensive collaboration across various teams, I am consistently improving my skills in efficient time management and prioritization of tasks.
14. If you could learn how to do anything, what would it be?
I'm eager to learn how to pilot an aircraft!
15. Tell us about where you live (and your journey getting there - if applicable).
Living in Ahmedabad, I began my career by securing a position at the Sophos office through campus recruitment. Since I started, I've been enchanted by the allure of this city. As time passed, my fondness for Ahmedabad grew, culminating in my marriage to a true local, born and raised here.
Recently, my partner and I decided to buy a home together, reaffirming our dedication to this city and ensuring we remain firmly rooted in its embrace.
16. What's your favorite thing about where you live?
I love the perfect balance of being in a lively city without ever feeling suffocated by the crowds. It's incredible how diverse cultures and people seamlessly coexist without any friction.
17. Tell us something that might surprise us about you.
I can't swim and struggle to sleep in a completely dark room without any light source.
18. Any favorite lines from a movie?
"Remember, Red, hope is a good thing, maybe the best of things, and no good thing ever dies. I will be hoping that this letter finds you, and finds you well.” ― The Shawshank Redemption
19. If you had a superpower, what would it be?
Indulging in various cuisines without concern about any potential health issues.