My Internship journey at Abhyaz - From Learning to Leading

Swarnalakshmi Kathiresan
03.07.25 10:15 AM - Comment(s)

Introduction - A step into data with Purpose

After years of working in structured roles at leading organizations, I felt a growing pull toward the world of data — a space where numbers tell stories, patterns reveal insights, and technology meets decision-making.

To bridge the gap between my operational experience and my analytical aspirations, I began an internship at Abhyaz, a Zoho-authorized partner, where I took my first real steps into the data-driven side of business operations by gaining hands on experience in Zoho tools - Zoho CRM, Zoho Analytics , Zoho recruit, Zoho desk, Zoho workdrive

This blog highlights my experience and learning,challenges and how I overcame it, tips for future interns and final gratitude and conclusion note.

Experience and Learning 

During my internship at Abhyaz, I have assigned with tasks that improve my skills technically as a data analyst intern.I have also developed soft skills which includes professional communication skills,time management skills and presentation skills in various formats like documenting my work in ppt,h5p and screen recording formats.I had exposure to various Zoho tools - Zoho CRM , Zoho Analytics , Zoho Recruit and Zoho Workdrive. Each task has given me unique experience in my internship journey at Abhyaz from approaching the business problem statement to final outcome.The key responsibilities of the task included as follows :

    • Data collection and account and contact mapping in Zoho CRM : Mapped contacts and accounts within Zoho CRM to ensure structured, de-duplicated, and reliable educational data.
    •  Use case diagram for a client at Abhyaz : Translated client requirements into visual workflows and UML diagrams for better alignment and clarity in development.
    • Lead module cleanup/enrichment in Zoho CRM : Enriched and restructured the lead database in Zoho CRM, tagging and organizing leads to reflect accuracy and readiness.
    • Recruit data cleanup / enrichment in Zoho Recruit : Carried out data cleanup task in Zoho recruit by deleting redundant attachments and e-mails for system optimization.
    • Process Automation by blueprint creation for Abhyaz Business process in Zoho CRM : My most impactful contribution was designing and implementing a multi-stage workflow in Zoho CRM using its Blueprint feature.I created status transitions, added validation rules, and built automated tasks that brought structure and clarity to the trial lead flow process

Growth and Impact :

This internship wasn't just a technical learning experience rather it was a transformational journey.I began unsure, with questions about whether I could handle the demands of a new field while managing motherhood and my professional career.But as the weeks passed, I grew in confidence and clarity.

Here’s how this internship impacted me:

  • From Data Entry to Data Understanding
    I didn’t just perform tasks — I learned why they mattered. I understood how clean data, structured lead flows, and automated tasks can directly improve business efficiency and customer experience.
  •  From Task-Focused to Process-Oriented Thinking
    I started to see the bigger picture. Instead of simply completing assignments, I began exploring how to approach the problem statement and to act smarter fir making the business decision.
  •  From Silent Contributor to Confident Presenter
    Presenting my Zoho CRM blueprint automation to the team was a turning point. It showed me that I can articulate business logic, receive feedback, and own my work with confidence.
  • From Self-Criticism to Self-Compassion

Gratitude and Acknowledgement 

I believe growth is never a solo journey — it’s always shaped by those who stand beside us, guide us, and quietly cheer us on.First and foremost, I am deeply grateful to the Abhyaz team and mentor Mrs.Keerthy Thankan who offered me a space to learn, explore, and apply my skills in a real-world setting. Their feedback, patience, and encouragement helped me step outside my comfort zone and into my confidence, supported my documentation efforts, and trusted me with responsibilities that challenged me to grow.

And on a personal note, I want to thank my husband,Mr.Sahithyan, who supported me silently through the chaos of juggling internship deadlines, toddler tantrums, and late-night learning. Even when words weren’t always exchanged, his presence gave me strength to keep going on days I doubted myself.This journey has shown me how much is possible — when you have the right environment to grow, the willingness to try, and the courage to begin again

Conclusion 

With this experience, I’m now confidently stepping toward data analysis and CRM strategy roles, where I can combine process thinking, technical tools, and business insight to drive real-world solutions.

This internship at Abhyaz was more than just a stepping stone in my resume — it was a reset button on how I see my potential.I started this journey curious and cautious. I’m ending it confident, capable, and deeply aligned with my passion for data, process thinking, and purposeful automation.

Whether it was building blueprints in Zoho CRM, cleaning lead data, or presenting to mentors — every task became a thread in the larger fabric of my growth. And while the internship has concluded, my learning has only just begun.

As I now step forward toward a career in data analysis and business process improvement, I carry with me not just skills — but stories, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose.

I’m proud of how far I’ve come. And I’m even more excited for what’s next.

Swarnalakshmi Kathiresan