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45-Year-Old Engineer Seeks Career Advice in Tier-3 City: Do's and Don'ts?

Patrick Dsouza |1469 Answers |Ask -Follow

CAT, XAT, CMAT, CET Expert - Answered on Apr 09, 2025

Patrick Dsouza is the founder of Patrick100.
Along with his wife, Rochelle, he trains students for competitive management entrance exams such as the Common Admission Test, the Xavier Aptitude Test, Common Management Admission Test and the Common Entrance Test.
They also train students for group discussions and interviews.
Patrick has scored in the 100 percentile six times in CAT. He achieved the first rank in XAT twice, in CET thrice and once in the Narsee Monjee Management Aptitude Test.
Apart from coaching students for MBA exams, Patrick and Rochelle have trained aspirants from the IIMs, the Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies and the S P Jain Institute of Management Studies and Research for campus placements.
Patrick has been a panellist on the group discussion and panel interview rounds for some of the top management colleges in Mumbai.
He has graduated in mechanical engineering from the Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology, Allahabad. He has completed his masters in management from the Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai.... more

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 31, 2025Hindi

Career

Hi Career Experts , I am into my 45th year & am a qualified Mechanical Engineer + Full-time MBA in Marketing . Am based-out in a Tier-3 City & am supposed to stay back in my base location only due to family obligations . Worked for 16 Years but had to quit my job in 2021 due to incompatibility issues & not able to absorb / cope-up with the surmounting pressures that are rampant in the corporate world . Since then , have not been able to settle down with a Job although reaching-out & following openings on platforms like LinkedIn actively but all in vain . Had even tried exploring starting-out on my own but risks and insecurity have held me back . Have been somehow managing with my savings & investments done , but that may not go a long way . Success it seems is elusive on all fronts probably due to my age , work-gap , location constraint , maybe some other follies as well etc ? Looking forward to some specific advises pls. (do's & dont's) which may restart and reignite my career , which is in a complete state of mess . Thanks & Regards !

Ans: When you are looking for a job, check multiple sources. Linkedin is one of them. Check placement agencies, connect with your former colleagues, your friends, your batchmates from MBA college who themselves could be in decision making position. You may have to reskill yourself with some short courses. Simultaneously you could look at starting something on your own based on your interest. Could be investment advisory or some small business.

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Abhishek Shah | Answer |Ask -Follow

HR Expert - Answered on Apr 20, 2023

Question by Anirban - Apr 13, 2023Hindi

Career

Hello, I am 48 and working since 1996. Have worked with Airtel for 11 plus years and also earlier with Hutch and TTSL....majorly into telecom in my total work exp, rose to a DGM level in 2010 at Airtel with a v good CTC but had to leave them in 2017 as Jio the market disruptor had entered and no suitable role was left for me. Am an MBA in marketing and having solid work exp but somehow have not managed to land up a proper job till now ....the pandemic and the lockdown did not help at all !!! Kindly guide me and advice on how can I reboot my career. Thanks a ton, Ani

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

Aashish Sood |127 Answers |Ask -Follow

CAT, Management Expert - Answered on May 30, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 27, 2024Hindi

Career

Hi sir, I m a person looking for opportunities. But I am stuck in my career. I m an MBA Graduate (Marketing & HR Specialization) from Hubli, Karnataka. I have passed out in 2015. I have worked as a Business Development Executive for a small firm and then I worked as HR Executive in Bangalore from 2016-2018 in Bangalore. I left the job to join family business in Hubli. But the business ran into too much of debts and we have it someone else. I have also worked with Bajaj Allianz Life insurance company as investment consultant (but it was commission based part time job). Now I m looking for a full career opportunities (Preferably in Banking sector). But I m confused as to how to go ahead with my career. As there gap in my career, I m unable to find jobs. Please guide me Sir

Ans: I understand that things do go up and down, dont let that beat you down

While you do have a good amount of experience, it is neither continuous not long

If you are looking at opportunity in banking sector, though you dont have prior experience in it; I would recommend that you start with

A) Certifications like JAIIB, CAIIB (by IIBF), CFA, FRM, or NCFM OR Online Courses on platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or LinkedIn Learning to enhance your knowledge in banking and finance.

B) Entry-level positions or internships to gain experience and get your foot in the door

C) Understanding the Banking Sector in India, Different types of banks, RBI regulations and other financial regulatory bodies etc

Aashish Sood |127 Answers |Ask -Follow

CAT, Management Expert - Answered on May 30, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 27, 2024Hindi

Career

I am 35 year old and holding 5+ years of experience in various domains after completing Deploma in Mech Engg QA-1year(automobile industry 2011-12). 2012-2018-- Degree in Mechanical Engg. Meanwhile due to financial issues I had work with 2/3 companies for short time of period and left because of Exams, whatever work like service engineer and Quality related work I attended. After completing my Graduation in Mechanical Engg I rejoin small firm which was dealer and distribution industry for metal cutting tools. due to convid these company was shutdown and then 2021 I switched to BPO industry and now from April 2023 to till date I am working in Supply chain Management in Infosys as a Sr Executive now could you please advise what should I do because it's really challenging to adapt new skills with less salary I am unable to take risk of new learning. And also facing money problems as now I have to run entire family shall I have to start any business or what should I do to save and retrack my career?

Ans: Why don't you want to continue in SCM?

In my opinion, you should continue to develop your expertise in supply chain management. Given your current role at Infosys, aim to gain more responsibilities and prove your value within the organization. You may also consider obtaining supply chain management certifications like APICS (now ASCM), Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), or Six Sigma. These can increase your marketability and potential for promotions or salary increases.

Stay updated with industry trends and continue learning to adapt to changing market demands.

Latest Questions

Nayagam P P |11177 Answers |Ask -Follow

Career Counsellor - Answered on Apr 28, 2026

Question by Jaspal - Apr 27, 2026Hindi

Career

My son has got a rank of 85685( percentile 94.5) in Jee mains.Category is general.Home state is chandigarh.Wants to pursue CSE or IT.Kindly suggest best options in this regard.Pls help

Ans: Jaspal Sir, I have already answered your question. Please check.

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Career Counsellor - Answered on Apr 28, 2026

Question by Saraswatidas - Apr 27, 2026Hindi

Career

Hello Sir, My daughter has secure 77 percentile in Jee main we r staying in Delhi and general category....she wish to take admission in BTech.... please advice for best option to take admission...

Ans: At 77 percentile, the expected CRL is likely above 3 lakh, making admission to NITs, IIITs, or GFTIs through JoSAA highly unlikely for a Delhi General category candidate. The best practical approach is to focus on Delhi-based Counselling: You can pply for JAC Delhi for DTU, NSUT, and IGDTUW, especially as a female Delhi candidate, but manage expectations toward spot rounds or lower branches. Also consider applying for IPU B.Tech Counselling for colleges like MAIT, MSIT, BVCOE, BPIT, and GTBIT. Additionally, keep 3-4 private engineering colleges in and around Delhi as backup options rather than relying solely on JoSAA, CSAB, or JAC Delhi. ALL the BEST for Your Daughter's Prosperous Future!

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Asked by Anonymous - Apr 27, 2026Hindi

Career

My Son get Sc 13764 and AIR 242696 any NIT get

Ans: Based on your son's rank, securing a regular NIT seat is possible mainly in lower-demand branches and during later JoSAA or CSAB rounds, but admission to popular branches like CSE or ECE at top NITs is unlikely. Past NIT Mechanical cutoffs indicate that some lower-tier NITs admit candidates within the 8,000–18,000 SC rank range. It is important to fill all possible JoSAA and CSAB choices, keep options open for every branch, and prioritize lower-demand NITs and GFTIs. Additionally, reviewing JoSAA opening and closing ranks from the past 2–3 years will provide valuable insights to help your son confidently select and maximize his preferred choices. ALL the BEST for Your Son's Prosperous Future!

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Career Counsellor - Answered on Apr 28, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 27, 2026Hindi

Career

My ward scored 70 percentile in jee mains and scored 78 percentage in boards and my ward wants to pursue mechanical engineering what are the best government colleges in India

Ans: You have not mentioned your son's home state or his category either. With 70 percentile and 78% board marks, your ward can realistically target lower-demand branches like Mechanical in some state government colleges and a few GFTIs. However, admission to Mechanical branches in NITs or IIITs is generally out of reach based on recent JoSAA trends. Suitable government options include SLIET Longowal, Assam University, Mizoram University, HNB Garhwal, Gurukula Kangri, JEC Jabalpur, IET Lucknow, and BIET Jhansi, depending on category, state quota, and counselling rounds. While some newer NITs may admit candidates with higher ranks for lower-demand branches, Mechanical usually requires a much better rank than what a 70 percentile typically corresponds to. It is better to have backup options of 3-4 Private Engineering Colleges in and around your State instead of relying only on JoSAA/CSAB. ALL the BEST for Your Ward's Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P P |11177 Answers |Ask -Follow

Career Counsellor - Answered on Apr 28, 2026

Question by Abhinav - Apr 27, 2026Hindi

Career

Sir I got 235615 in JEE Mains (General), home state Maharashtra. Can i get any GFTI in Any state with Mechanical or Electronics and Computer Engineering??

Ans: Abhinav, With a CRL of 2,35,615 in the General category from Maharashtra, regular JoSAA admission chances for Mechanical, Electronics, or CSE branches in GFTIs are very low. In 2025, closing ranks for accessible GFTI Mechanical branches like SGSITS Mechanical were around 47,041, and ECE branches mostly closed between 61,000 and 72,000, which are well below your rank. Nonetheless, you should register for JoSAA and the CSAB Special Round, as CSAB fills vacant seats after JoSAA. Backup options you must have include MHT-CET/CAP counselling for Maharashtra colleges and private engineering colleges in and around Maharashtra for CSE, ECE, Mechanical, and E&TC branches. ALL the BEST for Your Prosperous Future!

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Career Counsellor - Answered on Apr 28, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 27, 2026Hindi

Career

My son is gote 76 parcentail in sc category.in which government college admission gote

Ans: He should definitely fill JoSAA choices and consider all branches, especially lower-demand engineering branches in GFTIs. Additionally, he should explore home-state government colleges through state counselling and actively participate in CSAB rounds to maximize admission opportunities. If possible, have 3-4 Private Engineering Colleges in and around your State also as backups. ALL the BEST for Your Son's Prosperous Future!

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Career Counsellor - Answered on Apr 28, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 26, 2026Hindi

Career

My son has got 607933 rank in JEE .is there any chance to get in noit

Ans: With a CRL of 607,933, admission to CSE or other high-demand branches in any NIT or IIIT is not realistically possible. Instead, focus on state counselling and private colleges in and around your state, or consider lower-demand branches in GFTIs if category or quota benefits apply. Your son can still participate in JoSAA and CSAB by filling the maximum number of preferred choices, but ensure these choices are near-realistic to improve chances. ALL the BEST for Your Son's Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P P |11177 Answers |Ask -Follow

Career Counsellor - Answered on Apr 28, 2026

Question by Hemant - Apr 27, 2026Hindi

Career

My son got 98.83 percentile in JEE 2026 with CLR 18862 Rqnk, in EWS GEN.Categ. Rank is 2551 , is any chance in Top NITS with CSE Branch plz also suggest name of NITS where he can got admission

Ans: Hemant Sir, you have not mentioned your son's home state. Based on your son's score, admission to CSE in top NITs like Trichy, Surathkal, Warangal, Calicut, and Allahabad is unlikely. More feasible CSE options include NIT Agartala, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, and possibly NIT Puducherry or Goa in later rounds. For better chances, also consider IIITs such as Una, Kottayam, Kalyani, Dharwad, Bhagalpur, Ranchi, and Bhopal. It is important to participate in CSAB Special Rounds for possible seat upgrades. Additionally, reviewing JoSAA opening and closing ranks from the past 2–3 years will provide valuable insights and help your son confidently select and fill his preferred & maximum number of choices. If possible and if you wish, have 3-4 backup options of reputed Private Engineering Colleges also in and around your State. ALL the BEST for Your Son's Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P P |11177 Answers |Ask -Follow

Career Counsellor - Answered on Apr 28, 2026

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 27, 2026Hindi

Career

Hi Sir, My son has secured a rank of 4095 in JEE Mains 2026, and we are also expecting a rank below 300 in KCET 2026. I would like your advice in finalizing the best college and branch among the following options: 1. NITK Surathkal – ECE (Home State), 2. NITK Surathkal – IT (through CSAB, Home State), 3. MNIT Allahabad – CSE, 4. IIIT Bangalore – CSE, 5.IIIT Hyderabad – ECE, 6.RVCE Bangalore – CSE. The fees at NITs are financially affordable for us, whereas the fees at IIIT Bangalore and IIIT Hyderabad are quite expensive. Considering all aspects, including placements, career growth, and overall value, which would be the best choice? Additionally, my son is unsure about his interest in hardcore coding. In that case, would ECE be a better option? Also, does ECE offer strong career potential?

Ans: Before addressing your question, I’d like to emphasize that no branch is inherently bad—every branch, including ECE, has its own strengths and opportunities. However, if your son is unsure about a hardcore coding or software-focused CSE branch, it’s wise to avoid it initially. He should remain adaptable, as his interests and the job market may evolve by his 2nd or 3rd year, possibly shifting his focus between ECE or other streams.

Regarding your question, it’s highly recommended to prioritize home-state institutions such as NIT Surathkal, IIIT Bengaluru, or RVCE Bengaluru. Since finances are a concern, finalizing admission in NIT Surathkal’s ECE branch is advisable, given its excellent placement record over the last few years, including highest packages exceeding ?50 lakhs for ECE graduates. ALL the BEST for Your Son's Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P P |11177 Answers |Ask -Follow

Career Counsellor - Answered on Apr 28, 2026

Question by Jaspal - Apr 27, 2026Hindi

Career

My son has got a rank of 85685( percentile 94.5) in Jee mains.Category is general.Home state is chandigarh.Wants to pursue CSE or IT.Kindly suggest best options in this regard.

Ans: Jaspal Sir, With a CRL of 85,685 in the General category from Chandigarh, admission to CSE or IT branches in NITs and IIITs through regular JoSAA is very difficult. PEC Chandigarh, your son's best Chandigarh-linked option, is also unlikely for CSE/IT, as 2025 closing ranks for CSE/Data Science branches were much earlier, and even lower PEC branches in CSAB closed between 50,000 and 82,000. You can still try for these choices and also consider CSAB options for lower-tier IIITs and GFTIs if desired. However, it is important to keep realistic backups such as UIET Chandigarh, CCET Chandigarh, Chitkara, Chandigarh University, CGC Landran/Jhanjeri, Thapar, IPU colleges, and private colleges in UP and Haryana. For CSE and IT, private or state counselling routes are generally better options. ALL the BEST for Your Son's Prosperous Future!

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