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Khevna

Khevna Shah  | Answer  |Ask -

HR Expert - Answered on Feb 06, 2023

Khevna Shah is the head of human resources at Coverfox Insurance. She has 14 years of experience in human resources across industries like manufacturing, banking & financial services and insurance. Her expertise includes talent acquisition, retention, employee engagement and developing a performance focussed culture.
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Asked by Anonymous - Feb 06, 2023Hindi
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Career

Hi Khevna, From an HR perspective, does it pose an issue or conflict of interest for my boss and me to start an unrelated side business together (a totally different industry than our place of employment, never using work resources for this)?

Ans: It may not pose conflict of interest but it is in good stance to declare it to your current company of any other business interests / ventures you get into. It is not only an ethical practice but a must since irrespective of the nature of business, it is imperative that you let your employer know of any other commercial activities that you are involved in (even if it is pro bono).
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Mayank

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Dear Mayank, I'm amidst a peculiar situation in my professional journey. I work for a private limited company as AGM sales (Industrial) for past 4 years & my contribution to the company's top-line constitutes almost 70% of the company's yearly revenue since I am a KAM of a big strategic account. Over the past 8-9 years, while I have changed my employers on couple of occasions, my client has remained the same (its the same big account that I refer to). However, in the past I have never joined a direct competitor where there has been a conflict of interest. Always I chose to move to an organization with different product line and thereby expand my exposure, while at the same time keeping intact the integrity as well as dignity of during job changes. Now, our direct competitor has approached me with a job opportunity in the same market. My present organisation is relatively small,whereas the competitor is a big MNC with better brand value. I tried to stay away for past 2-3 months citing ethical issues, but they still keep approaching. Please suggest whether it will be a good decision to change. I'm 41 years of age, with 17-18 years experience in Industrial Marketing. Regards, Ashish
Ans:

Hi Ashish,

The large MNC is approaching you for your strong connections and they want to capitalise on that for their growth.

If you are happy with your role and the culture of the current organisation, then my suggestion will be to continue with them.

Changing a job is always a risk, particularly in the current economic scenario.

 

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Abhishek

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How to start a business while already in a job.
Ans: Starting a business while already being employed can be an exciting and challenging endeavor. I can provide you with some valuable insights and steps to help you navigate this journey:

Evaluate Your Idea: Before you begin, assess the feasibility and potential of your business idea. Conduct market research to understand your target audience, competition, and the demand for your product or service.

Create a Business Plan: A well-structured business plan is crucial for any venture. Outline your business objectives, strategies, financial projections, and marketing plans. This plan will act as a roadmap for your business and can also be helpful when seeking funding or partnerships.

Time Management: Balancing a job and a new business requires excellent time management skills. Set aside specific hours each day or week dedicated to your business. Be disciplined and committed to utilizing this time effectively.

Avoid Conflicts of Interest: Make sure your new business idea doesn't conflict with your current employer's interests. Review your employment contract and company policies to ensure there are no restrictions on starting a side business.

Secure Funding: Determine how much capital you need to start your business. You might consider bootstrapping, seeking investors, or applying for loans. Adequate funding is essential to get your business off the ground.

Build a Support Network: Surround yourself with mentors, advisors, or a supportive entrepreneurial community. Networking can provide guidance, advice, and potential business opportunities.

Test the Waters: Consider starting your business as a part-time venture initially. This will allow you to validate your idea and get real-world feedback while minimizing the risk.

Legal and Tax Implications: Register your business with the appropriate government authorities and obtain any necessary licenses or permits. Be aware of your tax obligations and keep your personal and business finances separate.

Delegate and Outsource: As your business grows, you may need to delegate certain tasks or outsource work to manage your time efficiently. Focus on core activities that require your expertise and delegate the rest.

Maintain Work-Life Balance: Starting a business alongside a job can be demanding, so it's crucial to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Take care of your physical and mental well-being to avoid burnout.

Be Patient and Persistent: Building a successful business takes time and effort. Be prepared for challenges and setbacks along the way, but remain persistent and focused on your goals.

Remember, every business journey is unique, and success depends on various factors, including market conditions, competition, and your dedication to the endeavor. With proper planning, commitment, and the right mindset, you can successfully start and grow your business while maintaining your job.

Regards,
Abhishek Shah

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Ravi

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Dating, Relationships Expert - Answered on Dec 04, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 02, 2025Hindi
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My married ex still texts me for comfort. Because of him, I am unable to move on. He makes me feel guilty by saying he got married out of family pressure. His dad is a cardiac patient and mom is being treated for cancer. He comforts me by saying he will get separated soon and we will get married because he only loves me. We have been in a relationship for 14 years and despite everything we tried, his parents refused to accept me, so he chose to get married to someone who understands our situation. I don't know when he will separate from his wife. She knows about us too but she comes from a traditional family. She also confirmed there is no physical intimacy between them. I trust him, but is it worth losing my youth for him? Honestly, I am worried and very confused.
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
I understand how difficult it is to let go of a relationship you have built from scratch, but is it really how you want to continue? It really seems to be going nowhere. His parents are already in bad health and he married someone else for their happiness. Does it seem like he will be able to leave her? So many people’s happiness and lives depend on this one decision. I think it’s about time you and your BF have a clear conversation about the same. If he can’t give a proper timeline, please try to understand his situation. But also make sure he understands yours and maybe rethink this equation. It really isn’t healthy. You deserve a love you can have wholly, and not just in pieces, and in the shadows.

Hope this helps

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Mayank

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IIT-JEE, NEET-UG, SAT, CLAT, CA, CS Exam Expert - Answered on Dec 04, 2025

Career
My son will be appearing for JEE Main & JEE Advanced 2026 and will participate in JoSAA Counselling 2026. I request clarification regarding the GEN-EWS certificate date requirement for next year. I have already applied for an EWS certificate for current year 2025, and the application is under process. However, I am unsure whether this certificate will be accepted during JoSAA 2026, or whether candidates will be required to submit a fresh certificate for FY 2026–27 (issued on or after 1 April 2026). My concern is that if JoSAA requires a certificate issued after 1 April 2026, students will have only 1–1.5 months to complete the entire procedure, which is difficult considering normal government processing timelines. Also, during current JEE form filling, students are asked to upload a GEN-EWS certificate issued on or after 1 April 2025, or an application acknowledgement. This has created confusion among parents regarding which year’s certificate will finally be valid at the time of counselling. I request your kind guidance on: Which GEN-EWS certificate will be accepted for JoSAA Counselling 2026 — a certificate for FY 2025–26 (issued after 1 April 2025), or a new certificate for FY 2026–27 (issued after 1 April 2026)?
Ans: Hi
You need not worry about the EWS certificate. Even if you apply for the next year's certificate on 1 Apr 2026, the second session of JEE MAINS will still be held, followed by JEE ADVANCED, which will be held in May. JOSAA starts in June. so you will have 2 months in hand for fresh EWS certificate.

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