LIFESTYLE

A peek into the life of Oshadie Korale

UNPLUGGED

In conversation with Natalie Seneviratne

Which personal habit or routine has had the greatest impact on your professional life?

Following up consistently – especially in sales, the first message rarely closes the deal. Regular follow-ups make the difference and have contributed greatly to growth.

How do you maintain a healthy balance between your personal life and a demanding work schedule?

It’s something I’m still figuring out… but I’ve deliberately started saying ‘no’ to weekend commitments so I can spend quality time with my husband and son.

If you had a month to unplug anywhere in the world, where would you choose to go – and what would you do there?
I wouldn’t need a full month or travel abroad. For the past few years, we’ve been going to Arugam Bay for around 10 days during the season and those are my favourite days of the year. It’s peaceful and allows me to disconnect from work. 

My son loves it so it has become a special yearly tradition. I enjoy the rustic atmosphere, beach hopping, relaxing and switching off.

On challenging days, what helps you reset your mind and regain clarity?

I’ve learnt to identify when I’m reaching my limit – on such days, I’ll take half a day off or step away for a while instead of pushing through and burning out.

What’s been the defining moment in your leadership journey so far?

Stepping into the role of being the public face of the company. Whether it’s the media, events or speaking engagements, I spend time representing the brand externally. That shift has made me realise that leadership is also about how you communicate your vision outside the organisation.

So where do you draw inspiration from outside the world of business?

My father – no matter how many times life knocked him down, he has got back up and keeps going. I deeply admire that resilience.

One facet of leadership you’re consciously trying to improve…

Delegating better and being more patient – I’m learning to give people the space they need to deliver.

What legacy do you hope to leave behind as a leader?

I want people to remember that you don’t have to stay in one lane. You can excel academically in one field, move into something completely different and still succeed.

What book, podcast or piece of content has influenced you recently – and why did it resonate with you?

Lately, I’ve been consuming a lot of content around AI in recruitment. It resonates with me because I can see how much it’s going to change hiring locally.

If you could give your younger self one meaningful piece of advice, what would it be?

Everything will work out the way it’s meant to.

An unconventional leadership insight you’ve learnt that others may find surprising…

You don’t need to have all the answers – sometimes honesty builds more trust than pretending you know everything.

What personal value or principle do you refuse to compromise?

Doing things the right way. I want every success and achievement to come from something legitimate with no shortcuts.

How do you spend your ideal weekend when you’re not working?

With my family, spending quality time together without distractions.

What’s the most memorable travel or life experience that has shaped the way you see the world?

Living in the UK during my PhD while working part-time jobs such as waitressing. That experience taught me independence and resilience.

If someone shadowed you for a day, which one of your routines would surprise him or her?

How much time goes into building relationships. Calls, meetings and follow-ups take up a large part of the day.

What’s a simple everyday pleasure that brings you unexpected joy?

My morning coffee – I need those quiet few minutes before the day begins.

And what is the most underrated skill that today’s leaders should cultivate?

Listening – rather than waiting to respond!

Name someone outside your sector whom you admire – and why?

I really admire Milani Salpitikorala – she has dedicated her career to child protection in Sri Lanka, often working on overlooked cases involving children’s rights. Her consistency and courage are qualities I deeply respect.

A common misconception people have about leaders at your level…

That we have everything figured out… we don’t. We’re learning every day, making mistakes and figuring things out as we go.

Oshadie Korale is the Co-founder and COO of XpressJobs.