Hello Sir, I am 37 and have over 15+ years of experience having joined my family business after completing my diploma in pharmacy. Unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond our control, we went into losses and 2 years ago had to sell our business to clear our debts. For the last two years I was working in a startup as a Sales executive/Lead Client Support/Content Writer but the startup is about to close down as well. I have trying to find jobs for the last 6 months but all I am getting are entry level customer support roles or do not hear back at all. I did complete my graduation in business administration but because I worked through most of life in my family business, I do not have job experience per se, neither degrees beyond my graduation. I am stuck and confused as to how I should progress in my professional life henceforth. Any advice?

Ans: I understand this must be a frustrating situation. You have a strong educational background and experience, but the job market can be tough. Don't view freelance work as a gap in your employment history. Frame it as an opportunity where you leveraged your expertise to consult with clients. Quantify your achievements as a freelancer whenever possible (e.g., increased client base by X%, secured Y new contracts). The financial and marketing fields have likely evolved since your graduation in 2006. Consider taking online courses, certifications, or workshops to update your knowledge in areas like financial technology (FinTech), digital marketing, or social media marketing. These in-demand skills can make your resume more attractive to employers. Since you already have experience freelancing for forex clients, explore ways to expand your freelance offerings. Can you offer additional services like market research, competitor analysis, or content creation related to finance or foreign exchange? Don't limit yourself to just finance or forex roles. Consider marketing positions within financial institutions, wealth management firms, or fintech companies. Your marketing background could also be valuable in other industries like retail, healthcare, or technology. Remember, your age and experience are assets. Age is not a liability; hence, by highlighting your transferable skills, expanding your skillset, and utilizing a strategic job search approach, you can increase your chances of landing the right job.

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.

Ans: Hey!!

You are just 27 yrs old, there is a full life ahead of you!! Trust me when I say that every experience is a learning experience. Look back at life, reflect and see what you learnt from each experience, how you responded to each experience, and how you have changed for better. This the only way to go about being positive and happy. This is the key to live a fulfilling life
Focus on your health, however cliche it may sound ,"health is wealth". Recover, rejuvenate, become sound in body and mind. Do all that takes to regain your mojo.
Take one step at a time towards becoming better in all the areas of your life.
Go back to the classroom , learn and get that degree. There is something about getting a degree, it shows your focus, resilience and the ability to get things done come what may, this will again help you in moving forward in life!!

Practice gratitude, meditate, exercise, stay healthy, stay happy and stay positive.
Things will soon fall in place when you start taking care of yourself... your life, your pace and it's your journey... do not compare yourself with anyone. Life is your race to be won, by becoming better version of yourself and giving your 100%. Get up and get going with wisdom and clarity of thought.

All the very best!! More power to you!!