Dear Mr. Krishna Kumar....This is sandhu here....I have been working in the logistics industry for about 25 years. My initial requirement was to learn from the front end since I was working in the back operations...hence I moved on to another county worked in 2 companies a freight forwarder and a distributor...and I am now working in the gulf with the second company (Distributor of world-class brand in electronics ) for about 17 years and growth seems to be completely stalled in terms of position. I am right now in a middle management position however looking for management position for about 17 years but does not seem to be working. Really do not know what should I do and looking for more expert advise...should I change to teaching filed....I am completely stationary in terms of growth prospects.

Ans: Hello Mahesh,

I understand that despite your 13 years of experience in handling accounts receivable and accounts payable, you are currently feeling stagnant and seeking guidance on suitable courses and options for professional growth. I can offer you some suggestions to help you progress in your career.

Continuous Learning: In the ever-evolving world of finance and accounting, it is crucial to stay updated with the latest trends, regulations, and technologies. Consider enrolling in courses or pursuing certifications that enhance your knowledge in areas such as financial analysis, risk management, data analytics, or international accounting standards. These will not only expand your skill set but also make you more valuable to your current and future employers.

Specialization: Assess your strengths and interests within the accounting field and consider specializing in a particular area. For example, you could focus on tax accounting, auditing, financial planning and analysis, or managerial accounting. Specializing can help you stand out from the competition and open up new opportunities for career advancement.

Networking and Professional Associations: Engage with professional associations related to accounting and finance, both locally and internationally. Attend conferences, seminars, and networking events to meet professionals in your field and expand your professional network. Building connections can lead to new career prospects, mentorship opportunities, and valuable insights from industry experts.

Seek Internal Opportunities: Explore potential growth opportunities within your current organization. Speak with your supervisors or human resources department about your aspirations for career progression. Express your interest in taking on additional responsibilities, cross-functional projects, or managerial roles. Taking initiative and demonstrating your ambition can lead to internal promotions or transfers to more challenging positions.

Consider Advanced Degrees: Depending on your long-term career goals, you may consider pursuing an advanced degree such as a Master's in Business Administration (MBA), a Master's in Finance, or a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) qualification. These qualifications can enhance your knowledge, provide a broader business perspective, and potentially increase your earning potential.

Personal Development: Besides professional qualifications, do not overlook the importance of personal development. Enhance your leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, as these qualities are highly valued in managerial positions. Consider attending workshops or seminars that focus on soft skills development.

Remember that professional growth is a continuous journey, and it requires a proactive approach. Assess your goals, skills, and interests regularly to ensure you are heading in the right direction. It is also crucial to maintain a positive attitude, embrace challenges, and stay motivated throughout your career.

I hope these suggestions provide you with a starting point for your professional growth. Wishing you the very best in your career endeavors.

Best regards,
Abhishek Shah

Ans: Hi Sir/ Madam,

Always changing a job may not be the solution.
Firstly have a conversation with your manager and voice out your aspiration and what will keep you motivate.
List out the kind of courses or trainings you may want to pursue to enhance your professional experience. And see if these trainings are done internally or if yes take up those trainings and if it externally you can decide accordingly. This will help you learn a new skills and drift your thought of been dis motivated. Mostly importantly learning a new will only do good for your career opportunity.
If incase there are no roles within the team then you may look for within organizational roles to meet your ask.
Do some research how the industry is trending this will help you more equipped when you those conversations with your manager.

Hope this helps. All the best

Thanks
Ashwini Dasgupta
Author of Confidence Decoded. Is it a Skill or Attitude?

Ans: One option is to do additional courses in area of Banking and Finance and look for growth in the same sector. If you are not interested in the industry you are working in then can look at doing courses in other areas in order to grow.

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.