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Can experienced professionals like me land Sr. HR positions?

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |4404 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Aug 26, 2024

Nayagam is a certified career counsellor and the founder of EduJob360.
He started his career as an HR professional and has over 10 years of experience in tutoring and mentoring students from Classes 8 to 12, helping them choose the right stream, course and college/university.
He also counsels students on how to prepare for entrance exams for getting admission into reputed universities /colleges for their graduate/postgraduate courses.
He has guided both fresh graduates and experienced professionals on how to write a resume, how to prepare for job interviews and how to negotiate their salary when joining a new job.
Nayagam has published an eBook, Professional Resume Writing Without Googling.
He has a postgraduate degree in human resources from Bhartiya Vidya Bhavan, Delhi, a postgraduate diploma in labour law from Madras University, a postgraduate diploma in school counselling from Symbiosis, Pune, and a certification in child psychology from Counsel India.
He has also completed his master’s degree in career counselling from ICCC-Mindler and Counsel, India.
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Asked by Anonymous - Aug 15, 2024Hindi
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Career

Hi ! I am a multi-skilled professional with specific education in Sports Medicine from USA & experience based skills in Admin & HR. In 1993, i was hired as a consultant in the best health clubs in South Delhi & in 1994 hired as a Consultant to design & manage Fitness Centers by DDA Sports wing, New Delhi. By 1996, my performance in DDA Sports Complexes was considered exceptional & based on my unique contribution I was offered a Sr. Mgr. position, a permanent position by DDA, which I politely declined, as being an entrepreneur in Fitness Industry, I didn't have the mindset for a Govt. Job that time. I did qualify many interviews Sr. position jobs in 5 Star Hotel Health Clubs in Delhi & Mumbai & the biggest Weight Management Centre chain in Delhi from 1993 to 1999, but didn't take up these assignments, as they seemed a cake walk for me. In year 2000, I had applied for Sr. Mgr. position jobs in Hotel Burj Khalifa, Dubai & other 5 stars in middle East, I was conveyed by the HR of these world class 7 star hotels that I qualify technically but need more Managerial Experience. That's how, I landed up management jobs in private Manpower co's in Admin & HR, worked very hard and progressed from Sr. Mgr to CEO positions within 10 years. I am 57 years now (but as Fit as a 30 yr old guy) and currently function as HR Consultant for a major Educational Institution in South Delhi & a few private firms. I want to qualify a Sr. HR position full time in some big private company. But, my resume sent to any big company does not yield any response. Either positions don't open frequently in big co.'s or resumes are never looked at? I fail to understand. By the God's grace, I have never failed an interview in my life, but unfortunately not getting the right opportunity now. Pls. advise further to achieve my dream job.

Ans: Sir, Your age is a major factor, why most companies do not shortlist your Resume or call for an interview to recruit you as a Permanent Employee.

Secondly, through which sources you are applying? Newspapers? Job Portals? LinkedIn? Please fine-tune your Resume and your LinkedIn Profile. Put Job Alerts in LInkedIn for Sr. Position in HR/Administration Department. Keep applying for jobs whenever you get notifications of job vacancies, matching your profile.

You can also try for 'ADVISOR' post for HR Functions (or) try at Manpower Consultant Firms.

All the BEST for Your Bright Future, Sir.

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Abhishek

Abhishek Shah  | Answer  |Ask -

HR Expert - Answered on Nov 03, 2023

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Hi Abhishek, I have around 15 years of experience in HR generalist role. I have done my education in distance mode while I am on job. I started my career as data entry operator in HR and rose upto the level of manager in infrastructure industry from 2007 to 2020 from 2021 to 2022 nov I have worked in ITES US staffing firm. Due to health and personal issues I had to quit the job. From 2023 Jan onwards I am searching for job but of no use till date I am unemployed I have to pay EMI every month. I am unable to figure out why my profile is working in the market. Is it my education background which is hampering my chances or what I am unable to figure out. Can u please help me to understand and figure out how to come out of the situation to land in a job.
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

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |4404 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Aug 16, 2024

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Hello Sir! I have total versatile experience of 20 years in Back Office Operations (5 years), Procurement Manager (5 years), Program Manager of Content Development Team (4 years), Marketing – Onboarding companies for placing our students for a 3-year internship (Earn and Learn) (2 years) PA to JMD along with Recruitment Officer (at present) in one company only, working from 2003. However, when I received the role of Recruitment, I found it interesting and quite challenging and to discover new networks and studying the vast topic of HR. After 2 years of recruitment (self-learned the process), I enrolled in two certification programs viz. HR Analytics (from CHRMP) and HR Generalist (Payroll, Talent Acquisition and Strategic Human Resource Management) – (from Protouch with SHRM and HRCI Certification). I am trying internally for a shift in my present company however, I can’t proceed here. Simultaneously, I am looking for Talent Acquisition or Recruiter positions outside my office and applying the same but could not succeed. I feel and think, that companies might be thinking why she is shifting now and secondly, my overall experience is good, but core TA experience is 4 years. I am looking for a CTC of Rs. 18 Lakhs. I request you to please guide me how I should proceed further – should I stay in my company or look outside. If looking outside for the opportunities, then what measures I should take for receiving a good job offer and salary package. Thanking you Regards, Madhuri Shinde
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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Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |571 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Mar 30, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Mar 29, 2025Hindi
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Recently I have joined in Sales of a construction firm. I have 20+ years experience. My colleagues sideline me for socially as well as in commercial aspect. One shroud lady colleague even grab my customers who are supposed to be attended by me. This hampers my performance. The lady colleague is well settled in the job & good at work. But she is very greedy & canny. Please suggest me steps to be taken to resolve the issue. Being in a team everybody should get equal opportunity.
Ans: Start by documenting instances where your colleague takes your customers. Keep track of assigned leads, interactions, and any proof that shows unfair interference. Once you have enough evidence, approach your manager diplomatically. Instead of complaining, frame it as a concern about fair opportunity and teamwork. You can say something like, "I’ve noticed some overlap in customer assignments, and I want to ensure a structured approach so that everyone gets a fair chance to contribute."

At the same time, build relationships with other colleagues. Even if they are currently sidelining you, consistency in communication and showing your expertise will gradually shift their perception. Join informal discussions, offer insights, and find ways to make yourself valuable within the team. Sales is as much about internal networking as it is about customer engagement.

For your customers, establish stronger direct relationships. The more your clients trust you, the harder it will be for someone else to take them. Be proactive in follow-ups, personalize your approach, and make them feel you are the go-to person for their needs. If you can, set up meetings or calls with them before your colleague gets the chance.

If your workplace has a CRM system, ensure that your interactions with customers are properly logged. This creates a record of your engagement and makes it harder for someone else to claim them unfairly. If processes for lead allocation are unclear, suggest to management that a transparent system be put in place to avoid conflicts.

This will take time, but by being assertive, strategic, and focused on performance, you can shift the dynamics in your favor. If you remain consistent and prove your worth, your position in the team will strengthen, and your colleagues will have no choice but to acknowledge your contribution.

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Mayank

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IIT-JEE, NEET-UG, SAT, CLAT, CA, CS Exam Expert - Answered on Mar 30, 2025

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |4404 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Mar 30, 2025

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Dr Nagarajan Jsk

Dr Nagarajan Jsk   |305 Answers  |Ask -

NEET, Medical, Pharmacy Careers - Answered on Mar 29, 2025

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What are the chances to get merit out in afcat for flying branch if you've cleared all stages till medical but with a slightly average written marks?
Ans: Hi Gaurav,
Greetings.
Whenever we decide to take an entrance exam, it’s important to review the guidelines thoroughly. Like other entrance exams, CDAC has provided details on their website regarding the examination process. Admission is based on the vacancies available in the respective areas, and candidates will be admitted after a proper evaluation.

As you mentioned, there are several stages that candidates must clear for admission, if a candidate achieves average marks (Point 8a. (v) In order to rationalise the marks scored by candidates appearing in different shifts in an objective manner through a statistical method, before declaration of result marks scored by candidates will be Normalised based on the formula ), it can be challenging to predict their likelihood of admission. The Air Force has the discretion to set qualifying marks for any or all subjects of the examination. Below are points extracted from CDAC to provide more clarity about the admission process.

Sometimes, they may even consider a second cut-off if necessary ( Based on organizational requirements, IAF may impose a second cut-off for particular branch and call additional eligible candidates for SSB testing. These candidates will be shortlisted purely based on order of merit for the particular branch. That particular branch should be one of the choices submitted by the candidate at the time of registration. The candidature of candidates thus shortlisted, will be valid for that particular branch only and not for any other branch. In the overall Order of Merit, they will be placed below the last candidate qualifying the First AFCAT cut off marks {Para 9(a) above}. If successful in the selection process, these candidates will be inducted into that particular branch only, subject to vacancies and order of merit. These candidates would be required to submit an undertaking to this effect).

So,If you've decided to pursue this path, then proceed with thorough preparation.

BEST OF LUCK.
POOCHO. LIFE CHANGE KARO!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |4404 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Mar 29, 2025

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My daughter scored 94.62 percentile in IIT JEE mains exam 2025 session 1. She belongs to general category. Which colleges she have chances to get admission
Ans: Dr, Here is, How to Predict Your Daughter's Chances of Admission into NIT or IIIT or GFTI After JEE Main Results – A Step-by-Step Guide

Once the January JEE Main session results are declared, many students and JEE applicants start asking common questions about eligibility for specific institutes (NITs, IIITs, GFTIs, etc.) based on their percentile, category, preferred branch, and home state.

Providing precise admission chances for each student can be challenging. Some reputed educational websites offer ‘College Predictor’ tools where you can check possible college options based on your percentile, category, and preferences. However, for a more accurate understanding, here’s a simple yet effective 9-step method using JoSAA’s past-year opening and closing ranks. This approach gives you a fair estimate (though not 100% exact) of your admission chances based on the previous year’s data.

Step-by-Step Guide to Check Your Daughter's Admission Chances Using JoSAA Data
Step 1: Collect Your Daughter's Key Details
Before starting, note down the following details:

Her JEE Main percentile
Her category (General-Open, SC, ST, OBC-NCL, EWS, PwD categories)
Preferred institute types (NIT, IIIT, GFTI)
Preferred locations (or if you're open to any location in India)
List of at least 3 preferred academic programs (branches) as backups (instead of relying on just one option)
Step 2: Access JoSAA’s Official Opening & Closing Ranks
Go to Google and type: JoSAA Opening & Closing Ranks 2024
Click on the first search result (official JoSAA website).
You will land directly on JoSAA’s portal, where you can enter your details to check past-year cutoffs.
Step 3: Select the Round Number
JoSAA conducts five rounds of counseling.
For a safer estimate, choose Round 4, as most admissions are settled by this round.
Step 4: Choose the Institute Type
Select NIT, IIIT, or GFTI, depending on your preference.
If you are open to all types of institutes, check them one by one instead of selecting all at once.
Step 5: Select the Institute Name (Based on Location)
It is recommended to check institutes one by one, based on your preferred locations.
Avoid selecting ‘ALL’ at once, as it may create confusion.
Step 6: Select Her Preferred Academic Program (Branch)
Enter the branches you are interested in, one at a time, in your preferred order.
Step 7: Submit and Analyze Results
After selecting the relevant details, click the ‘SUBMIT’ button.
The system will display Opening & Closing Ranks of the selected institute and branch for different categories.
Step 8: Note Down the Opening & Closing Ranks
Maintain a notebook or diary to record the Opening & Closing Ranks for each institute and branch you are interested in.
This will serve as a quick reference during JoSAA counseling.
Step 9: Adjust Your Expectations on a Safer Side
Since Opening & Closing Ranks fluctuate slightly each year, always adjust the numbers for safety.
Example Calculation:
If the Opening & Closing Ranks for NIT Delhi | Mechanical Engineering | OPEN Category show 8622 & 26186 (for Home State), consider adjusting them to 8300 & 23000 (on a safer side).
If the Female Category rank is 34334 & 36212, adjust it to 31000 & 33000.
Follow this approach for Other State candidates and different categories.
Pro Tip: Adjust your expected rank slightly lower than the previous year's cutoffs for realistic expectations during JoSAA counseling.

Can This Method Be Used for JEE April & JEE Advanced?
Yes! You can repeat the same steps after your April JEE Main results to refine your admission possibilities.
You can also follow a similar process for JEE Advanced cutoffs when applying for IITs.

Want to Learn More About JoSAA Counseling?
If you want detailed insights on JoSAA counseling, engineering entrance exams, preparation strategies, and engineering career options, check out EduJob360’s 180+ YouTube videos on this topic!

Hope this guide helps! All the best for your daughter's admissions!

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