Coworking with Paddy Rathinam

Coworking is a weekly segment where we spotlight Emerging Tech Brew readers who work with emerging technologies. Click here if you’d like a chance to be featured.

How would you describe your job to someone who doesn’t work in tech?

Growing a business is like coaching the offense of a football team—it takes a lot of planning and the understanding that sometimes factors come into play that you can’t control, like an injury or inclement weather.

In my role, I do my best to lead and encourage our go-to-market teams and follow a strategy to keep business, grow business, and delight our customers. I work closely with other leaders to build a strong team, invest in making them better, and win and lose together.

What’s your favorite emerging tech project you’ve worked on?

As the founder of an AI company that Freshworks acquired in 2020, AI is near and dear to my heart.

We’re officially in the era of AI-first software, and over the past year, Freshworks has rolled out several new product updates to help our customers benefit from it. From increasing agent productivity by automating simple tasks like cancellations and refunds to making experiences across the entire customer lifecycle more personalized, AI continues to enhance our products and bring value to our customers.

What emerging tech are you most optimistic about? Least? And why?

I’m all in on the future of generative AI and large language models and their positive impact on CX. This technology has exciting potential to improve the customer experience with more thoughtful engagement at scale.

What’s the best piece of tech-related media you’ve read/watched/listened to?

Recently, I’ve been loving the Revenue Builders Podcast with John McMahon and John Kaplan. Not only are they educational, but they also give listeners a sneak peek into some of the brilliant minds in our space and best practices for scaling and growing your business.

One thing we can’t guess from your LinkedIn profile?

Living in Seattle, I’m a runner and a golf nut. I’ve run quite a few half marathons, and while I’m not as competitive these days, I still enjoy getting some miles in running trails around nearby lakes.

What do you think about when you’re not thinking about tech?

Learning about human behavior, psychology, and emotional connections, and how I can apply this to my leadership style. I’m also a major foodie, so I am constantly thinking about what’s for dinner.