I'm 45 and feeling stuck in my career. Despite my experience, I'm not receiving any calls from recruiters or job platforms. I have an MBA and a degree in Fashion Design from NIFT, with a background in fashion retail and manufacturing. My roles have included being a fashion designer, production planning, and I even attempted my own venture, though it didn't succeed. What are my options now?

Ans: Have patience and keep on trying. Also use this time to acquire more skills in your profession or acquire new skills that can open more avenues to you. Soon the sentiment will improve and you can hope to start getting calls

Ans: Hello Ani,

Based on your experience and education, you have a strong background in the telecom industry. However, I understand that you are facing challenges in rebooting your career.

To start, I suggest updating your resume and LinkedIn profile to showcase your skills and accomplishments in the telecom industry. Highlight your experience in leadership, marketing, and any notable achievements during your tenure with Airtel, Hutch, and TTSL.

Next, consider reaching out to your professional network and former colleagues to explore potential job opportunities in the telecom industry. This could involve attending industry events, participating in online forums and discussion groups, and reaching out to recruiters who specialize in your field.

In addition, you may want to consider expanding your skills and knowledge by taking online courses, attending workshops, or pursuing additional certifications. This can help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in the telecom industry and make you a more competitive candidate for job opportunities.

Lastly, it's important to remain optimistic and persistent in your job search. The pandemic has impacted many industries, but the telecom industry remains a vital part of our modern economy. With your experience and education, you have valuable skills to offer potential employers. Keep networking, building your skills, and staying up-to-date with industry trends, and I'm confident you will find a suitable role that meets your expectations.

All the best!

Regards,
Abhishek

Ans: It's great that you're thinking carefully about your next steps. Balancing financial independence with pursuing your passion is a common challenge. First, take some time to reflect on your interests and skills. First, take some time to reflect on your interests and skills. Ask yourself: What aspects of fashion design appeal to you the most? Do you have any experience or skills related to fashion design? How strong is your desire to pursue fashion as a career? You might consider starting a job related to your BBA degree while simultaneously pursuing fashion design on the side. This way, you can gain financial independence while slowly transitioning into the fashion industry. To be competitive in the fashion industry, you might need additional education and training. There are many diploma and certification courses in fashion design that you can take to build your skills. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and Skillshare offer fashion design courses that can give you a solid foundation. Interning with a fashion house or designer can provide hands-on experience and industry insights. You can also attend fashion shows and industry events and join online communities related to fashion design. Networking can open doors to opportunities and mentorship. Ultimately, the decision should align with your long-term goals and passion. If fashion design is something you’re deeply passionate about, pursuing it can lead to a fulfilling career. However, it's important to be realistic about the challenges and prepare accordingly. Remember, it's perfectly okay to start in one field and transition to another. Many successful professionals have done it. Follow your passion, but plan carefully to ensure a smooth transition. Good luck!