HR MATTERS 22-07-2008

Q: I work in a BPO and am pursuing my graduation from a reputed open university. Will a graduation via correspondence have negative impact on my career?

Rajib Bhattacharya

A: Graduation is the basic requirement for a decent job. At this point, a graduation from an open university is of less value than from a regular one. Since you are gaining experience in a business process outsourcing company, that sector would be able to absorb you. Furthermore, if you can enhance your qualification with some short-term IT courses, then you can look for an opportunity in the IT industry.

Q: I am a BTech in electronics and communication. I received a job offer through campus placement but quit after a few months. Now I am preparing for MBA. Should I specialise in marketing or finance? If I want to join an information technology company what should I ideally do?

Sourav Banerjee

A:The subject of specialisation would depend on your area of interest. If you are good in communication, presentation and interpersonal skills and like marketing as a stream, then you can opt for that.

On the other hand, if you think you are strong in quantitative techniques, then you can take up finance as your specialisation. Both streams would fit in IT or any other industry, so your options are open at this point.

Q:I am a 28-year-old commerce graduate. I am working in a direct sales associate of Standard Chartered Bank as a marketing executive. I would like to switch over to the administrative field. A friend of mine told me about the course in company secretaryship. Can I pursue the course at this age? What are the job prospects?

Sushma Sharma

A: The age factor will surely be an issue. By the time you qualify, you would be over 30 years of age and that is not a good age to start a career. In any case you need to be working while you are pursuing a CS course. That will give you some experience till the time you are qualified. After that you can apply to any industry for a job because every organisation requires a CS and you can also look for opportunities in legal firms.

Q: I want to pursue a degree course in instrumentation technology or a related stream through correspondence in India or abroad. As I am working, I can’t opt for a regular course. I have done a full-time three-year diploma in instrumentation technology.

Samik Sikdar

A:Since you have already done a diploma in instrumentation technology, I feel there is no need for a degree course. This would have been helpful if you were thinking of a full-time course. A correspondence course will not add value to your CV. If you want to pursue studies in some other related field, then you can take this opportunity to do so to improve your qualification.

Q: I am 25 years old and have completed my postgraduation in economics from Calcutta University. I worked in a BPO for five months. My financial background does not permit me to opt for an MBA or CFA. As an economics student can I get a job in the capital market?

Dhananjoy Barman

A: I think you can easily get a job in the capital market with your economics background. You can look for openings in NBFC’s, stock broking firms, financial institutes and even in the media. I think you should first look for a job opportunity, settle in a job and then think of expanding your horizon through related short-term courses.

Q: I am 26 years old and have some work experience. I want to pursue MBA and I shall be appearing for MAT in December. Will the age factor be a deterrent if I choose to go for an MBA degree?

Barun Ghosh

A: By the time you pass out of college you would be 28, but I think that should not be a deterrent for you. An MBA degree will definitely enhance your job prospects in the market and you should go for it.

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