Hello Sir,
I am Abhishek, age 41, working in an MNC from last six years, as principal design engineer, electrical, in Mumbai.
I am a resident of Pune with my family settled there.
I have 18 years of experience in electrical design and PLC (programmable logic controller) automation industry.
But due to office politics and partial behaviour from management, I am dead in my career.
I am also getting very less opportunity in PLC automation, hence no new skills additions in my professional area.
I tried hard to change my job but couldn't get any. I also discussed with my manager about my goals and wish to work on PLC automation, but didn't get any major opportunities.
Recently I have got another opportunity in Pune but will have to travel more to foreign locations. I have to travel in my current job as well but the new company is offering better designation, better salary and better opportunities for me to work with new technologies in PLC automation.
However, it is a very small Indian organisation compared to my current MNC I work for.
I am in dilemma whether I should take up the new job or not?
What is your advice?
Thanks,
Abhishek

Ans: Hey there, you marketing maestro! First off, major props to you for consistently smashing it in the advertising world for over a decade. Your track record of successful campaigns and leadership skills speak volumes about your talent and dedication.

Now, about that promotion snub—ouch, that stings! But fear not, my friend. It's time to roll up those sleeves and tackle this head-on.

Start by setting up a meeting with your supervisors and HR. Prepare a little arsenal of your achievements—maybe pull together some stats on campaign performance, client testimonials singing your praises, or even awards you've snagged along the way. Numbers don't lie, and they'll help paint a vivid picture of your impact.

Now, let's add a dash of strategy to the mix. Instead of just listing off your accomplishments, weave them into a compelling narrative. For instance, highlight that time when you spearheaded that viral social media campaign that boosted brand engagement by 200%. Or recall the project where your innovative ideas led to a record-breaking sales increase.

But don't stop there. Paint a picture of your vision for the future. Share your insights on emerging marketing trends and how you plan to leverage them to drive even greater results for the company. Show them that you're not just a top-notch marketer—you're a strategic thinker with big dreams and the skills to make them a reality.

And remember, even if this particular promotion didn't pan out, it's not the end of the road. Keep hustling, keep innovating, and keep believing in yourself. Opportunities are like buses—there's always another one coming. So buckle up, because your journey to success is far from over!

Ans: Either you will have to look at jobs that is similar to what you are doing now, or will have to reskill yourself in some relevant technology and then look for jobs in that field.

Ans: There are jobs available, you will have to keep searching. Check your network of friends, apply through placement agency, upload your cv on job portals etc. Try to take up a job in relevant domain even if you are not completely satisfied with it and then keep searching, Else the gap would increase,

Ans: One option is to try for CAT again. You already have learning experience from your first attempt and that could help you to perform better in the 2nd attempt. Can do a course simultaneously or can do a job in Data Analytics. When you decide your career path try to see the demand in the industry as well as what you are interested in.

Ans: Most of these courses would require GRE as an entrance test.
Usually the first step is to find the admission procedure for each of these colleges. Check the deadline and what is required. Also check the date when you have to submit the scores and then plan your preparation for the exams accordingly. Usually the US universities would have weightage for extra and co curricular activities. Check that out and get involved with those activities.

Ans: Hello

2019-23 is not a career gap but a learning period where you tried entrepreneurship. Please tell your potential employer about that.

Try in the companies which are in the similar areas in which you tried your business, they will value your experience.

Failed entrepreneurship is an invaluable experience because now you know what all NOT to do.

You are indeed a. Fighter, you will do very well. All the best.

Best regards

Ans: When considering your investment strategy, actively managed funds can offer distinct advantages over ETFs. Actively managed funds are overseen by professional fund managers who actively research and select investments they believe will outperform the market. This active management can potentially lead to higher returns compared to passively managed ETFs.

Furthermore, actively managed funds have the flexibility to adapt to changing market conditions and exploit emerging opportunities. Fund managers can adjust their portfolios in response to market trends, economic indicators, and company-specific developments, aiming to optimize returns while managing risk.

On the other hand, ETFs, while offering low expense ratios and broad market exposure, often deliver only mediocre returns. Since they passively track an index, ETFs are unable to take advantage of market inefficiencies or capitalize on undervalued securities in the same way actively managed funds can.

Considering your desire for balanced returns and exposure to US stocks akin to Parag Parikh-like funds, actively managed funds offer a more suitable option. They provide the potential for superior performance while aligning with your investment objectives and preferences. Working with a Certified Financial Planner can help you identify the most appropriate actively managed funds to include in your portfolio.

Ans: Given your current allocation to 100% equity mutual funds without exposure to banking stocks, let's explore other avenues for diversification while respecting your investment preferences.

One option is to consider adding a component of debt instruments to your portfolio. Debt mutual funds can provide stability and income generation, complementing the growth-oriented equity funds you're already invested in. Look for funds with high-quality debt securities and a track record of consistent returns.

Another avenue to explore is allocating a portion of your portfolio to gold. Gold ETFs or sovereign gold bonds can act as a hedge against inflation and currency fluctuations, diversifying your portfolio and reducing overall risk.

Additionally, you might consider increasing your exposure to international equities. Investing in global markets can provide access to a broader range of opportunities and reduce reliance on any single market or economy.

Ultimately, the key is to maintain a balanced portfolio that aligns with your risk tolerance and long-term financial goals. Consulting with a Certified Financial Planner can help you navigate these options and tailor a diversified investment strategy that suits your needs.

Ans: As a Certified Financial Planner, I'd advise you to file ITR-2 for this scenario. ITR-2 is applicable for individuals and Hindu Undivided Families (HUFs) who have income from capital gains or more complex sources like multiple properties or foreign income. Since you've sold short-term mutual funds, which fall under the category of capital gains, and earned a gain of Rs. 3000, it's appropriate to use ITR-2 to report this income.

Additionally, ITR-2 allows for the disclosure of income from salary, house property, capital gains, and other sources, making it suitable for individuals with diverse income streams. Ensure you accurately report all relevant details of your mutual fund transactions and any other income you may have earned during the financial year.

Consulting with a tax advisor or accountant can provide further clarity and ensure you file your taxes correctly, maximizing your tax efficiency while staying compliant with regulations.