Dear Mr Mayank,
First of all, I would like to keep my question anonymous.
I have relocated to India in the past month after spending around 20 years in the Middle East.
I worked as a HR manager in an MNC for the past many years but had to leave due to difficulties in the market situation after the pandemic. Additionally, my entire experience is in the Middle East.
I have been applying for related jobs in HR here but to no avail.
I have completed my MBA on a part-time basis from an Indian university while I was working in the Middle East. 
I have certification from HRCI for SPHRi and have additionally completed HRBP training from AON.
Do you think my lack of Indian experience and lack of a full-time MBA will be a hurdle for getting a good offer from companies?

Ans: Hi Ramgopal,

I'm sorry to hear about the challenges you're facing in your job search. It's not uncommon for experienced professionals to encounter difficulties when re-entering the job market, and there could be several factors at play. Let's explore some potential reasons and strategies to overcome them:

Education Background: While you mentioned that you pursued your education through distance learning, it's essential to highlight your years of work experience. Many employers prioritize practical experience over formal education, especially in HR roles. Ensure that your resume and cover letter emphasize your extensive 15 years of experience and the skills you've gained during that time.

Resume and LinkedIn Profile: Make sure that your resume and LinkedIn profile are up-to-date, professional, and tailored to the roles you're applying for. Highlight your achievements, skills, and certifications relevant to HR or staffing.

Networking: Leverage your professional network. Reach out to former colleagues, supervisors, and contacts you've made during your career. Attend industry-specific events, conferences, and webinars to network and stay updated on industry trends.

Job Search Strategy: Be strategic in your job search. Target companies and roles that align with your experience and skills. Tailor your application to each job, emphasizing how your background makes you a strong candidate.

Skill Enhancement: Consider updating your skills to align with the current HR and ITES industry requirements. You may want to take online courses or certifications to boost your qualifications and demonstrate your commitment to ongoing professional development.

Interview Preparation: If you're getting interviews but not job offers, work on your interview skills. Practice common HR interview questions and refine your responses. Focus on showcasing how your experience is an asset to potential employers.

Consult a Career Coach: Consider seeking guidance from a career coach or mentor who can provide personalized advice and help you identify areas for improvement.

Be Patient and Persistent: The job market can be competitive, and job searches can take time, especially when you've been out of work for a period. Stay persistent and keep applying to positions that match your skills and experience.

Financial Planning: Given your EMI commitments, it might be wise to revisit your budget and explore options for temporary or part-time work to help manage your financial obligations while continuing your job search.

Self-Care: Lastly, it's essential to take care of your health and personal issues. A healthy and balanced mindset can positively impact your job search efforts.

Remember that job searches can be challenging, and rejection is a part of the process. Stay resilient, keep refining your approach, and you'll increase your chances of landing a suitable role in the HR or ITES industry. If you encounter specific challenges along the way, consider seeking advice from professionals in your network or career experts.

Best regards,
Abhishek Shah

Ans: Madhuri Madam, You have NOT mentioned about your Current Salary Package.

Please note, as you have correctly mentioned that your Core TA (Talent Acquisition) Experience is just 4-years, for which it is very difficult to get a job with 18.00 Lacs CTC. (almost 1.5 lacs/month). Also, please note, you have been handling only one of the functions of HR i.e. Recruitment/Staffing. If you expect 18.00 Lacs CTC, you should have had PRACTICAL experience in maximum number of HR functions such as Pay Roll, Training & Development, Staffing, MPP (Manpower Planning), Performance Appraisal, Labour Law Compliance, Employee Benefits, Knowledge of about various Labour Laws such as Industrial Disputes Act, Workmen's Compensation Act, ESI, PF, Gratuity etc.

As you have been doing 2-Certifications & have worked in the 'Staffing/Recruitment/TA' Function, you might be well-aware that 'Line' Function attracts more salary than 'Staff' Function.

Suggestions:

(1) It is better to continue with current employer and keep upgrading skills and researching about all Functions of HR/Personnel Management/Industrial Relations.

(2) Have a Professional LinkedIn Profile, Connect with HR Professionals (not to ask for jobs) but to gain knowledge/views from them, Keep writing views/articles in LinkedIn on 'HR', put Job Alerts for Senior HR Position, get notifications & if you feel, your profile matches with the JD of job vacancies in HR, you can keep applying for the same.

(Views based on my experience: Having Completed PGDIR/PM from Delhi, Labour Law from Madras University & Diploma in Training & Development from ISTD-Delhi & Worked in Delhi/Muscat/Chennai in HR/Administration Department).

All the BEST for Your Bright Future, Madhuri Madam.

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Ans: Yes. A lot of students do have a gap nowadays. But that should not be a problem in getting a job in IT sector.

Ans: I have B Arch students who had 2+ yearrs work experience who have done MBA. One from IIM C and other from MDI. Both are doing well in the industry. I spoke to one of them who is MDI passout 2 days back and she is now working on Marketing Strategy role in Google.