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Archana

Archana Deshpande  |117 Answers  |Ask -

Image Coach, Soft Skills Trainer - Answered on May 20, 2024

Archana Deshpande, the founder of TransformMe Life Skills Coaching, is an image consultant, soft skills trainer and life coach.
She has been working with individuals and corporate organisations for more than 10 years during which she has helped professionals and students improve their soft skills, build confidence and enhance self-esteem.
An engineer from the PDA College of Engineering, Gulbarga, Archana had a successful career at Reliance Communications. But she has always been interested in teaching and training people. So she pursued a postgraduate diploma in teacher’s training at Pune’s Symbiosis Institute of Management Studies followed by teaching assignments in schools at Visakhapatnam and Mumbai.
Archana also holds an international certificate in image consulting and soft skills training from the Image Consulting Business Institute, Mumbai.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Apr 29, 2024Hindi
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Career

I am software engineer aged 30 years. My manager is a sadist doesn't understand anything technically and always pester us on non essential things that doesn't matter at all in the work and deliverables. We are getting frustrated most of the times. Always blames others for his/her own mistakes. Always divides and rule the team. Always wants to go out and party even if there is lot of work and end of the day, asks for the work status. I do not want to leave the company but doesn't bare this manager at all. Please suggest what to do. I am at my low.

Ans: Hello!!
Most of us have had managers at some point in our careers, while some are helpful, compassionate, and capable, others may not meet these standards, clearly yours is not meeting the standards!! Dealing with challenging managers can be, well, a challenge. Be courageous and face the challenge, you are not a newbie you are a strong 30 yr old man.
When I worked in the corporate world, what I heard most of the times was that people don't leave a company, they leave bad bosses. Throughout your question you have always mentioned a "we", that means this bad boss is affecting many more people.
You have these options-
1. you all can send a signed petition about this boss, post this to the HR
2. nobody has to suffer at work, there will always be a way out, look for it
3. you be sincere in your work and deliver, develop a thick skin and don't allow this boss to affect you
3.if nothing works then quit, do whatever it takes to be peaceful at work

I am sure a smart 30 yr old software engineer like you "can" and "will" find a solution to this problem by choosing your options wisely and looking into what is important for you!

All the best!!
Career

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Anu

Anu Krishna  |1651 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Sep 06, 2021

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I'm working in a company for last 10 years and have been a consistent good performer. The management recognises it too. But in the last 2-3 years one person from Finance (same as my level) has been consistently interfering and keeps talking negative about my work. He makes my working as routine and not much significant to current output by constantly talking / pushing to management mentioning negatives of my doings. He is dominating the entire company and our management knows it but doesn't contradict him on face and keep avoiding issues when we talk of it. He controls all our efforts and denies execution / completion even if approved by CEO quoting himself as finance controller and approves for other things who doesn't object to him. On confrontation he avoids us and changes his stance - denies he ever did it. It is becoming very difficult to bear every day frustrations though I haven't allowed him any chance to say on my performance as every year we surpass targets with 10-15% higher achievement and collections front too we succeed efficiently. He is been responsible for legal matters and hasn't been effective of recovery of bad debts and smartly puts onus on others for default / losses. Pl advice me directly on mail only as I've many things to share but above should give you my mindset.
Ans: Dear A, I hear you. What still is unclear from what you have shared is what is it that you want clarity on from me?

Do you want to build a stronger mindset to deal with the situation?

Assuming (I have to assume here because, I don’t know how this is affecting you) that this is possibly keeping you on your toes as to what will be his next move, this maybe affecting your peace of mind; the only thing that I feel you can do is develop a strategy to checkmate him at every instance.

By now, you know his pattern of doing things and causing nuisance and then conveniently hiding things, it should give you an edge by simply predicting his next move and staying ahead in the game.

Most times, using the mind to strategize is more helpful rather than using it to obsess over why the other person is doing what he/she is doing.

We cannot ever control another person’s behaviour, but what we can do is reflect within and play the game smartly without creating a huge ruckus. In the end, based on my assumption, it's your peace of mind that you can be in no matter what happens outside you.

Based on the strategy through his patterned behaviour, it should give you a good head start before you embark on any project/meeting/presentation or whatever. You have experienced it and been in the midst of it all; now Observe and

Change what you do; without ever thinking that he is the one to change. He will at his own relevant time.

Spend your energies not on controlling him but on yourself and how you can plan, evaluate and execute. Focus on oneself can go a long way in changing things; personal pr professional.

(My answer is based on what little I could gather from your question)

Best wishes.

..Read more

Career

Career Coach  | Answer  |Ask -

Workplace Expert - Answered on Feb 21, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 21, 2024Hindi
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My manager is mentally harassing me. I work 14-16 hours a day. Even during weekends he calls to discuss work and says it's important and urgent. My family is very upset. I have tried to say no many times but he continues to behave in the same way. I can't quit until I find a better job. This job is important for my career. What should I do?
Ans: I'm sorry to hear that you're going through this challenging situation. It's crucial to address workplace harassment and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Here are some steps you could consider:

1. Document Everything: Keep a record of the instances of harassment, including dates, times, what was said or done, and how it made you feel. Documentation can be helpful if you need to escalate the situation later.

2. Set Boundaries: Clearly communicate your boundaries to your manager. Let them know that you're willing to work hard during regular working hours but that you need time off during evenings and weekends to rest and spend time with your family.

3. Use Assertive Communication: When your manager calls you during your off hours, politely remind them of the boundaries you've set and suggest scheduling a discussion during regular working hours unless it's genuinely urgent.

4. Seek Support: Talk to HR or another trusted superior about the situation. They may be able to intervene and provide support or mediation. If your company has an employee assistance program (EAP), consider reaching out to them for guidance.

5. Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with your company's policies on harassment and discrimination. If your manager's behavior constitutes harassment, you have the right to take action to stop it.

6. Consider Legal Options: If the harassment persists and affects your well-being or career prospects, you may need to consider legal action. Consult with an employment lawyer to understand your rights and options.

7. Explore Other Job Opportunities: Start actively looking for other job opportunities that align with your career goals and values. Having alternative options can provide you with more leverage in dealing with your current situation.

8. Take Care of Yourself: Prioritize self-care during this stressful time. Make time for activities that help you relax and recharge, and lean on your support network for emotional support.

Remember that no job is worth sacrificing your mental health and well-being. It's essential to advocate for yourself and take steps to address the harassment you're experiencing.

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Archana

Archana Deshpande  |117 Answers  |Ask -

Image Coach, Soft Skills Trainer - Answered on Nov 18, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 16, 2024Hindi
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Career
My manager is constantly manipulating his boss about me. Everyone in my team is aware that she is increasingly insecure about my success and feels threatened by me. She often gives incorrect and incomplete feedback due to which my manager feels that my manager is more efficient than I am. In the past, 4 people have quit or been foced to resign due to these politics. Should I also quit and move to another company or should I talk to the manager about this? Pls help
Ans: Hi!!

When I was working in the corporate world, the oft repeated quote was, "people don't leave the company ,they leave bad bosses".
Your manager's boss is your super boss, rt? Can't you go and speak to him directly and put your concerns across?
I am sure the HR must have noticed that people are quitting and might have explored the reasons why they are doing so too, do check with them.
I fail to understand why women should not cooperate with each other. You can also explore the option of talking directly to the manager and telling her if your actions in any way have caused some misunderstanding and if she says yes then you are willing to clear them. Also tell her that you are not eyeing her post and you are just trying to do your job well. I did the same with one of my bosses, it worked for me, we became the best of friends, we are still in touch. You need to think which is your best option and choose one from all the possible solutions I have mentioned. You can always quit, that's the last option I feel..

Hoping you choose wisely..All the very best!!

..Read more

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9162 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 20, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 20, 2025Hindi
Career
Hi, my son has secured an admission in a 2+2 BITS CSE program 2025 at Hyderabad (first 2 years) and Iowa state univ (for next 2 years). Under DASA he can potentially get AI at NITK or ECE at NIT Trichy or CSE in NITW (his CRL rank is 25200). Can you please advise and provide recommendations on what we can choose and reasons? We know 2+2 ISU program is more expensive compared to NIT DASA fees but is it worth the money vis-a-vis doing a B.Tech at NIT and doing a masters in US later? For this rank, what can he get at the said NITs under DASA?
Ans: The BITS Pilani–Iowa State University 2+2 CSE offers two years at BITS Hyderabad (ACM-aligned curriculum, NAAC A++ accreditation, state-of-the-art AI, data-science and cloud labs) followed by two years at Iowa State University (top-50 US engineering program, immersive B.S. in Computer Engineering, ISU merit scholarships up to US $4,500/year). Total direct tuition and campus fees for BITS Hyderabad amount to approximately ?10.5 L per year, while Iowa State tuition exceeds US $33,000 annually, plus living expenses. Graduates earn dual degrees with global brand recognition and typically secure near-100% placement through BITS’s 200+ recruiter network and ISU’s strong career services, commanding premium compensation packages in software, data science and R&D roles.

Under DASA with an All-India CRL of 25,200, he qualifies for: B.Tech AI at NIT Surathkal (AI cutoff: 26,688); B.Tech ECE at NIT Trichy (ECE cutoff: 66,706); and B.Tech CSE at NIT Warangal (CSE cutoff: 46,935). Each NIT features NBA accreditation, experienced PhD faculty, modern labs and strong industry MoUs. NITK AI and NITW CSE boast placement rates above 80% and growing AI/analytics recruitment pipelines, while NIT Trichy ECE records near-75% core-sector placements. Annual DASA fees at NITs range from US $15,000–18,000, significantly lower than BITS-ISU costs, with comparable scholarship opportunities limited.

Balancing long-term ROI, the BITS 2+2 path accelerates global exposure, dual-degree credentials and premium placements at higher upfront cost. A B.Tech at NIT followed by a US master’s entails lower initial investment, robust core engineering training and the flexibility to self-fund graduate studies through campus placements or scholarships.

Recommendation: Opt for BITS 2+2 CSE if you prioritise world-class international exposure, dual degrees and, top-tier placement networks despite higher fees. Choose a DASA seat at NIT (AI at NITK or CSE at NITW) for cost-effective core engineering training with solid placement and later pursue a US master’s via merit scholarships. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9162 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 20, 2025

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Best option in iiit hyderabad for better placement and early internship in btech and dual degree for course cse with speclization ai ml
Ans: Dipanshu, IIIT Hyderabad’s B.Tech in CSE offers an ACM-aligned curriculum covering algorithms, systems, AI/ML, data science and electives in computer vision and NLP, delivered through state-of-the-art AI, cloud-computing and robotics labs. A 12-credit Practice School internship begins in the fifth semester, supported by a proactive placement cell and corporate mentoring, yielding a 99% placement rate for BTech CSE with an average package of ?31.98 LPA over the past three years. Faculty include PhD-qualified researchers with strong industry collaborations, and accredited NAAC A++ status underpins academic quality. The five-year dual-degree integrates the BTech foundation with a research-oriented MS by Research, immersing students in advanced AI/ML theory, thesis work under DST/CSIR grants, and early research assistantships via centres like Kohli Center on Intelligent Systems. Dual-degree cohorts see 100% MS placement at an average of ?26.46 LPA, and graduates often secure RA internships and stipends of ?20,000–?50,000 monthly through lab-based projects. Both paths benefit from IIIT-H’s industry MoUs, interdisciplinary innovation hubs and global recruiter network, yet differ in academic depth, time-to-degree and placement profiles.

Recommendation: Opt for the BTech CSE for its higher average placement packages, structured Practice School internships from year three and broader recruiter diversity. Choose the dual degree if you seek early research immersion, advanced AI/ML specialization, funded thesis work and a stronger pathway into academia or R&D roles. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9162 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 20, 2025

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9162 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 20, 2025

Career
My son got admission in KCG college chennai with CSE. Now we got CSE in Amrita Chennai. My concern that Amrita chennai feeswise more than double comes to around 18 laks whereas KCG 8 laks overall Kindly suggest which one is good. Amrita is over burden for me. Still considering my son career I am ready to take loan or something to manage. Kindly suggest which one is goo
Ans: Raj Sir, KCG College of Technology, affiliated to Anna University and AICTE-approved, holds NAAC A+ and NBA accreditation for its CSE programme, a centrally located 50-acre campus with 140+ virtual and physical labs, including specialized AI, cloud and programming facilities. Its dedicated placement cell reported an 88%–94% placement rate over the past three years, with an average package of ?5 LPA and top recruiters such as Accenture, Cognizant, IBM and Amazon. Total tuition fees amount to approximately ?2 lakhs for the entire B.E. course.

Amrita School of Engineering Chennai, a constituent of Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham (NAAC A++), operates a 13.5-acre hill-campus with state-of-the-art AI, data-science, cybersecurity and cloud labs, and a strong industry-university research ecosystem. Its CSE graduates achieved a 90%+ placement consistency in 2024, with an average package of ?9.2 LPA and participation from 300+ recruiters including TCS, Wipro, Accenture and Amazon. Total tuition fees for B.Tech CSE are ?18 lakhs over four years.

Academically, KCG offers a robust ACM-aligned curriculum and extensive virtual-lab access, whereas Amrita provides a research-driven, choice-based credit system, extensive centers of excellence, and global collaborations. Both institutions maintain active MoUs and experienced Ph.D. faculty, but Amrita’s higher spend yields stronger median placements and broader recruiter reach.

Recommendation: Opt for Amrita Chennai CSE if investment is feasible, to leverage its superior placement outcomes, advanced research infrastructure and extensive industry linkages. Choose KCG College CSE for an accredited curriculum with solid placement consistency at a significantly lower cost, preserving financial flexibility. MY SUGGESTION: Finalise KCG and advise your son to keep upgrading his skills during the next 4 years, build a strong & professional LinkedIn Profile, improve his soft skills etc., to be competitive among other students for campus placement. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |9162 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jul 20, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 20, 2025Hindi
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