<h3>Lessons from Startups and Microsoft</h3>
<figure><img alt="" src="https://cdn-images-1.medium.com/max/1024/1*wc2gncSnXfmbuLdijmwWvg.jpeg"></figure>We all want our work to matter, to feel like we’re making a genuine difference. But defining “impact” in the workplace can be tricky. Is it just about big wins? Not necessarily.
While impact can certainly seem like delivering measurable results, it is often more multifaceted.
I’ve spent the better part of a decade as a Software Engineer, working across the spectrum — from early-stage startups and Y Combinator-backed ventures to fintech unicorns and Microsoft. Over those years, one thing has stood out to me: how we think about impact often needs a serious rethink.
Essentially, impact can be made through three distinct paths:
<ol>
<li>Delivering meaningful results for your team, business, or customers</li>
<li>Guiding others to success</li>
<li>Innovating on existing solutions</li>
</ol>
While business results often happen naturally, special efforts often need to be made to amplify the efforts of those around you, contributing directly to their successes.
Let’s explore how you can cultivate impact in all these forms.
<h3>Path 1: Delivering meaningful results for your team, business, or customers</h3>
This goes beyond completing tasks — it’s about creating tangible value that your team, business, and customers can clearly see and build upon.
Now, naturally, this might trickle down the organisation ladder, as your goals would be tied to your manager’s goals, and so on and so forth till it gets to the arm of the organisation that’s responsible for the needle.
To be more pragmatic about delivering meaningful results,
<ul>
<li>
Focus on high-leverage work: High-leverage tasks deliver big results with minimal effort. Skip the busywork and prioritize actions that truly move the needle — especially those that make future tasks easier or obsolete.</li>
<li>
Improve knowledge breadth: A wider knowledge base helps you spot opportunities and connect dots others miss. Read, explore, network, and stay curious to contribute more strategically.</li>
<li>
Be proactive (Solve problems early): Don’t wait to be told what to do. Anticipate needs, take initiative, and make yourself indispensable by solving problems early.</li>
<li>
Solve actual problems: Focus on issues that actually matter. Solving real, impactful problems adds far more value than checking off minor tasks.</li>
<li>
Communicate, communicate, communicate: Your work only matters if others understand it. Communicate clearly and consistently to share progress, align with others, and build influence.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Path 2: Guiding others to success</h3>
One of the most effective ways to amplify your impact and build lasting relationships, is helping others succeed.
When you actively support your peers, you create an environment of trust and collaboration, ultimately benefiting everyone — including yourself. Here are practical ways to help others reach their potential:
<ul>
<li>
Share what you know: Pass on knowledge freely. A quick explanation or shared resource can unblock someone and accelerate their growth.</li>
<li>
Make space for others: Create opportunities for others to shine—step back when it’s their turn, and cheer them on when they do.</li>
<li>
Give thoughtful feedback: Always look to give feedback that’s honest, constructive and kind. The goal is growth, not perfection.</li>
<li>
Celebrate wins publicly: Recognition boosts morale and reinforces good behaviour. Call out great work in meetings, chats or emails.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Path 3: Innovating on existing solutions</h3>
One of the most powerful approaches to innovation is not creating something entirely new, but thoughtfully building upon what already exists.
When you expand on existing ideas, you leverage established foundations while adding your unique perspective, creating solutions that are both grounded and forward-thinking.
Here are practical ways to effectively build upon existing work:
<ul>
<li>
Ask “what if” questions: Challenge assumptions about current solutions. Small shifts in perspective can reveal untapped opportunities and improvements.</li>
<li>
Connect across disciplines: Bring techniques and insights from other fields. Often the most innovative ideas come from applying established concepts in new contexts.</li>
<li>
Iterate with purpose: Make deliberate, incremental changes with clear goals. Each iteration should solve specific problems or enhance particular aspects.</li>
<li>
Acknowledge foundations: Give credit to the original thinking that inspired you. This builds goodwill and creates a culture where ideas can flourish collectively.</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>Often the most innovative ideas come from applying established concepts in new contexts</blockquote>
<h3>Takeaways</h3>
Maybe you’re great at solving tough problems that bring quick results. Or perhaps you shine when helping others work together and grow. You might be the one who always spots ways to improve systems and make them better.
The key is to focus on what comes naturally to you, as it’s often where you can make the biggest difference. Take a moment to think about it:
• Where can you make the biggest impact right now?
• Is there a tough problem you can solve?
• Could you help a teammate?
• Is there an idea you can improve?
Don’t wait for someone to tell you what to do. Start looking for ways to contribute in your everyday tasks.
By actively making these contributions, you’ll not only add value but also feel more fulfilled, knowing your work truly matters.
There’s always more content on my blog, if you’re interested: <a href="http://tomisin.dev/blog">tomisin.dev/blog</a>.
Till next time, pal!
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3 Paths to Massive Impact at Work

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