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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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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

Mayank Rautela  | Answer  |Ask -

HR Expert - Answered on Dec 05, 2022

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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

Abhishek Shah  | Answer  |Ask -

HR Expert - Answered on Jul 17, 2023

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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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Nayagam P

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Career Counsellor - Answered on Aug 15, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 15, 2025Hindi
Career
Sir I have been offered ECE with specialization in Avionics at RGNAU should I accept it as it is a desirable branch but I am confused whether to accept it as it is a relatively new institution and it has introduced the course this year itself. I have plans for Mtech too, should I accept it or consider a drop year ?
Ans: Rajiv Gandhi National Aviation University (RGNAU) is a specialized central university established in 2013, offering India’s only BTech ECE with Avionics specialization, designed in collaboration with top aviation organizations and companies like HAL, ISRO, BEL, Boeing, and Airbus. The newly introduced Avionics branch delivers an industry-embedded curriculum and hands-on learning through partnerships and regular internships at aviation hubs. While campus infrastructure includes modern hostels, advanced labs, and simulation facilities, extracurricular activities and fests are limited but growing. Placement support for aviation roles is strong, with the university reporting above 85% placement rates, but most opportunities are sector-specific, with roles in airports, airlines, ATC, and related entities; overall corporate placement diversity remains limited due to the niche field. Faculty comprise seasoned aviation professionals blending academic and industry insights, and research culture is developing, supporting further studies including MTech at leading institutions. The program’s newness means limited alumni and track records, which may affect immediate visibility.

Recommendation: Choose RGNAU ECE Avionics if committed to a unique career in avionics and aviation technology; consider a drop year only if aiming for older, established institutions offering broader engineering specializations and campus activities. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

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Career Counsellor - Answered on Aug 15, 2025

Career
We are from UP. Daughter got CSE in IET LUCKNOW and IIIT UNA CSE (Cyber security), where should join keeping UPSC as primary target and software engineer coding as backup plan...?
Ans: IET Lucknow is a well-established, affordable government college in Uttar Pradesh, offering a strong BTech CSE program with extensive campus resources, active student societies, and senior alumni connections across public and private sectors. The campus environment is conducive to competitive exam preparation, thanks to reasonable academic workloads and access to libraries, peer groups, and study support; placement rates average 60–95% across years, with major IT firms recruiting regularly. IIIT Una, a centrally funded institute located in Himachal Pradesh, delivers a modern, industry-oriented CSE (Cyber Security) curriculum emphasizing hands-on learning, student projects, and coding culture; placement rates in CSE are consistently above 85% over three years with strong corporate engagement, but the institute is comparatively new and has a smaller alumni network. While IIIT Una maintains a vibrant tech-focused environment, its location may pose challenges for UPSC preparation, given the distance from major coaching hubs and limited exposure to civil services networks.

Recommendation: Prefer IET Lucknow CSE for proximity to home, greater support for UPSC goals, strong peer network, manageable workload, and stable placements; IIIT Una CSE is ideal if tech specialization and industry roles are higher priorities. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |10303 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Aug 15, 2025

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My son has got IIIT kurnool cs branch, in csab round 1, what's your take on the college? We are from Delhi, there's is a possibility that he might be allocated NIT Delhi Electrical branch. What should be preferred ? We are from Gen category and the son's CRL rank was 42276. Please advice.
Ans: Vivek Sir, IIIT Kurnool, established in 2015 under the Ministry of Education, is focused on computer science and engineering with an emerging national footprint. Its placement rates have ranged from approximately 59–80% in recent years, with top recruiters like Amazon, Cisco, and Capgemini visiting campus. The CSE program is industry-oriented, faculty credentials are improving, infrastructure is modern, and students report a good academic culture and active participation in internships and hackathons, though research exposure and alumni networks remain limited due to the institute’s recent establishment. NIT Delhi Electrical Engineering, also a newer NIT, achieves consistently high placement rates (89–92%), strong corporate alliances, modern labs, and a challenging academic environment; the faculty is supportive, and software or non-core technical placements are accessible even for electrical students. For CSAB 2025, NIT Delhi Electrical closed between CRL 37307–42758 for Home State, indicating a possibility for your son’s admission with CRL 42276 (if Home State applies).

Both colleges offer solid placements and learning atmospheres, but NIT Delhi—being closer to your city and offering wider traditional engineering exposure plus access to Delhi’s technology ecosystem—has a slight edge for general career options and progression.

Recommendation: Prefer NIT Delhi Electrical Engineering for its higher placement rates, location advantage, robust faculty, and broad career opportunities, followed by IIIT Kurnool CSE, which excels largely in tech-focused sectors. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

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Career Counsellor - Answered on Aug 15, 2025

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I have got CSE in NIT Allahabad should I use my float opion for CSE in NIT Calicut? Which is better for CSE - NIT Allahabad or NIT Calicut or NIT Suratkhal
Ans: Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology Allahabad (NIT Allahabad), National Institute of Technology Calicut (NIT Calicut), and National Institute of Technology Karnataka Surathkal (NIT Surathkal) all rank among India's top-tier technical institutes, each delivering exceptional outcomes in computer science and engineering. NIT Calicut tops recent placement records with CSE securing 96.77% placements, closely followed by NIT Allahabad at around 90–95% and NIT Surathkal consistently above 83%. NIT Calicut’s CSE curriculum and faculty have enabled renowned global company recruitments, almost perfect placement rates, and high-end industry internships, while NIT Surathkal offers historic legacy, prominent alumni, and robust research engagement, with CSE placements in major product and service firms. NIT Allahabad produces well-rounded graduates, maintaining high placement rates, notable median packages, active academic-industry collaborations, and dynamic campus life. All three institutes provide leading infrastructure, experienced faculty, research centers, student clubs, and strong campus life, with independent strengths in innovation and industry connect.

Recommendation: Opt for NIT Calicut CSE for its superior placement percentage and national reputation, followed by NIT Surathkal, then NIT Allahabad, in that priority order for career advancement and research opportunities. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

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Career Counsellor - Answered on Aug 15, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 12, 2025Hindi
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Hello sir I get Electronics and computer engineering in YMCA faridabad and ECE In GL BAJAJ NOIDA Which is good in terms of Academic and placement .
Ans: JC Bose University of Science and Technology, YMCA Faridabad, consistently records NIRF rankings in the top 150 and is renowned for strong academic programs and faculty expertise, particularly in Electronics and Computer Engineering. Placement rates for its technical branches, including ECE and ENC, consistently range from 89–96%, with leading recruiters like Adobe, Cisco, Samsung, and Goldman Sachs offering diverse roles in IT, analytics, and electronics sectors. Internship opportunities and campus facilities are comprehensive, supporting holistic development and industry readiness. GL Bajaj Institute of Technology & Management, Noida, is a highly rated private college with up-to-date infrastructure and strong industrial linkages for ECE, claiming high placement rates (up to 97%) and significant participation from top companies such as Intuit, Adobe, Capgemini, and Bosch, but student reviews highlight variable academic rigor and relatively newer faculty compared to YMCA. Placement trends for ECE at GL Bajaj are impressive, aligning with tech industry demands, yet its national academic reputation and depth of research activity are less established than those of YMCA Faridabad.

Recommendation: Opt for Electronics and Computer Engineering at YMCA Faridabad for superior academic strength, legacy faculty, robust placements, better national rankings, and wider career opportunities in both electronics and computing. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |10303 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Aug 15, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 13, 2025Hindi
Career
Sir , my son got admission in Thapar institute of technology Patiala in Robotics and AI and got selected in a new age school Newtown school of technology in CS and AI . Pls suggest which he should go for
Ans: Thapar Institute of Engineering & Technology Patiala, established in 1956 and ranked within India’s top 20 engineering institutes, offers robust training in Robotics and AI, leveraging strong faculty expertise, advanced research labs, solid industry connections, and 83–96% placement rates over the past three years. Its sprawling 250-acre campus, vibrant student life, experienced faculty, and frequent corporate tie-ups foster student innovation and professional growth in deep tech and automation domains. Newton School of Technology, Sonepat—a new-age school focused on CS and AI—boasts cutting-edge curriculum, modern infrastructure, 98% claimed placement rates, and over 2,500 students placed with global MNCs, but is relatively new, with early-stage industry reputation, faculty and alumni footprint still growing. The institution emphasizes strong industry immersion and a project-driven pedagogy, which suits fast-paced tech careers, yet lacks the legacy and multi-dimensional campus environment Thapar provides. While both schools are forward-looking, Thapar’s proven career outcomes, quality assurance, and robust mentorship advantage established graduates across all domains of advanced engineering.

Recommendation: Choose Thapar Institute Patiala Robotics and AI for its established academic calibre, diverse opportunities, high placement rates, and secure long-term career progression in engineering and technology. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |10303 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Aug 15, 2025

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |10303 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Aug 15, 2025

Career
My daughter got B. Com(Hons) in LSR DU and BS in data Science and AI IIM Sambalpur What to choose? Need suggestion
Ans: Seema Madam,
Lady Shri Ram College (LSR), Delhi University, offers a nationally top-ranked B.Com(Hons) with a legacy of academic excellence, selective admissions, and robust faculty expertise. The program achieves high placement rates: median offers above 70%, top recruiters including Big 4 consultancies, investment banks, and MNCs, with graduates excelling in commerce, finance, and management and often pursuing top postgraduate programs. LSR provides a vibrant campus life, multiple student organizations, extensive alumni networks, and strong peer-driven learning. IIM Sambalpur’s BS in Data Science and AI is a pioneering, fully residential four-year program aligned with modern interdisciplinary standards, blending analytics, artificial intelligence, and business, led by experienced faculty and a project-driven curriculum, with capstone internships and industry mentorship. Though placements for the first cohort are evolving, the institute leverages the IIM brand and industry alliances for advanced roles in tech, business analytics, and research; career outcomes are projected to be strong, but concrete placement data is nascent due to the newness of the program.

Recommendation: Choose LSR B.Com(Hons) for established reputation, secure placement percentages in commerce, and wider postgraduate options; prefer IIM Sambalpur only if highly committed to emerging tech careers and interdisciplinary study in data science and AI, given the program’s innovative but evolving nature. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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