Q:I completed my MBA in marketing last year. Since then, I have been working in Calcutta with a consumer durables firm as a marketing and sales executive. Currently, I am looking to shift to the telecom or the retail industry. But lack of experience in a similar industry is proving to be the biggest hurdle. Is it advisable to change sectors at this stage of my career? Will SAP training be of any help?
Krishan Mohta
A:Cross domain movements are encouraged in today’s job market. Retail might be a better bet than telecom for you. I would advise you to post your résumé on job portals and look for a recruitment consultant experienced in these domains.
Since the SAP market is growing in India, it would seem obvious due to word-of-mouth reference that you should switch to a SAP job profile. However, if this is an exit move from your current career option, it would be advisable to consider the cost implications too. Getting trained from a reputed organisation can be quite expensive.
Also beware of fly-by-night operators, who provide training at cheaper rates. You should remember that without proper certification, it would be an uphill task to find a decent opening.
Q:I am 33 years old and have been in pharma sales for the last 10 years. Now I find that my job is taking up most of my time.
Hence, I want to switch over to IT or any other suitable field. I am a BSc graduate and don’t have any professional qualifications. What should I do?
Rahul Sengupta
A:If you are looking for a work-life balance then perhaps IT is not the best field. A service organisation will be better for you. Further, you may have to supplement your degree with specialised courses from NIIT or other such institutes. I would suggest that you talk to the HR persons within your organisation for a better work schedule.
Q:I have a BSc degree and work experience of nearly 14 years as a steno-secretary in big industrial houses.
Currently, I am working in a Calcutta-based retail company for the last two years in their finance department.
I am also pursuing my postgraduate diploma in business management from IISWBM, Calcutta. Which specialisation should I opt for in the management course? Since I am a science graduate, will a specialisation in finance help?
Tarun Chakraborty
A: I think the basic question here is what attracts you the most? If you like the accounting aspect of finance or are attracted by facts and figures then definitely finance is your best bet.
However, a marketing degree would offer someone with your educational background and work experience more flexibility in choosing a job.
The diversity in your existing experience will be best assisted by a marketing degree. However, if you are poor in “people skills” then finance would be the only road that you should consider taking.
Q:I am a commerce graduate with an LLB degree. I was working with an MNC for the last 15 years but resigned due to slow growth and differences with my boss.
I started my business with another person as a partner (under legal agreement). Recently, I have taken admission in MBA finance. Though my business is doing fine, I feel that I should get a job again.
My current earnings exceed the salary that I was getting. But, at the same time, the risk factor is also there. I am completely confused. What should I do?
Suresh
A:It’s a classic catch 22 situation. The grass is always greener on the other side. You moved to the other side all right but now the original side seems greener than the new one.
It ultimately comes down to your basic preference — if you want to be an entrepreneur or an employee. I can think of numerous examples to justify either choice.
It is a question that you have to honestly address yourself. Commitment to whatever you do is most important.
Money, status and constant comparisons should play no part in the process. Do whatever interests you, to the best of your ability, irrespective of perceived or actual results.
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