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Archana

Archana Deshpande  |75 Answers  |Ask -

Image Coach, Soft Skills Trainer - Answered on Jun 08, 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 06, 2024Hindi
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I am working in a corporate company as a Manager handling a team of 30. My manager always tries to micromanage. When he joined 6 months back he had a skip session with my team where my team raised a few concerns about me being strict. He gave me a documented feedback and I acknowledged it. Now he arranged another skip session with his manager and I am being put in situation where the same things were picked up by the team. Now they are again grilling me about the same issue for which I've got a feedback. Is it fair that i being cornered with same incidents again and again ?

Ans: Hi!!
You are a manger handling a group of 30 , this in itself is so much for you to look into and handle!!It's not some mean task managing 30 individuals and getting them to perform. Keep up the good work!!
In the skip meeting, your team said you are strict, don't you think it is good to be strict, strict about time, strict about performance. It is wrong to be grilled again and again for the same feedback which was documented and then acknowledged by you. Have you shown any changes/improvement in the way of handling issues with your team? As a leader of a team of 30, you need to inspire them to perform to the best of their abilities, you need to empathise, you have to apply different strokes to different people, adopt different styles of leadership based on the situation.
Do take the feedback of your team and your manager to improve yourself. If you take it positively then you will be the winner in this situation!
If they are grilling you again and again and your performance is getting affected, show them how you are working on the feedback and becoming a better leader, tell them to give you some space and time to continue working on yourself. You continue to perform well and do not allow any office negativity to affect you.
More power to you... all the best!!
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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.

..Read more

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Archana Deshpande  |75 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 29, 2024Hindi
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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!!

..Read more

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Archana Deshpande  |75 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 16, 2024Hindi
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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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Pradeep Pramanik  |186 Answers  |Ask -

Career And Placement Consultant - Answered on Nov 21, 2024

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I am looking for a job, I had uploaded my resume in job site. A consultant called me & introduced himself telling he know some of the openings. He had a detailed discussion about my job & my skills. He told need to register to his consultancy for scheduling interview. I registered with him & he got me a interview. Interview was done by the company through skype. I could not see the company persons. They told only they can see me. Interview went on well & regarding salary I told my expectation but they told it is not possible & they told their proposal. Finally I agreed to them. They gave me code & told to visit the company for next round. Consultant called me after first round & told recruiter is very happy with the interview. Regarding salary he told why I agreed for the proposal,he will discuss again & asked to pay charges for some of his services which he will refund the day I visit to the company & take the orders. I paid him. He told there is a increase in salary he has discussed with recruiter & again asked for the money I did only partial payment & further will not pay anything. Second round also happened through skype instead of in person. Interview went on well & salary offered was good comparing to before & there was a big jump. Recruiter told they have planned to give additional responsibilities so they have increased. Finally they gave me a date to visit company. I asked when will I get the order, he replied he will send to consultant as I was taken by them. Till now i did not get the orders, consultant is keep on postponing. Now he told visit to company date is also postponed, he will update in next week & not to worry as job is confirmed. Now not understanding what to do, am I been cheated or wait.
Ans: Dear Mr. Keshava ,

There are many unscruplous job agents who are fake and claim themselves to be a Placement consultant. In short You have been cheated . Before paying any fee for registration , you must ensure that the agency is genuine . If not don't even upload your resume . You may write to company , lodge a complaint against the agency. If the amount is very high , pl. take the help of police . .

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7097 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 21, 2024

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I hv started sip in 2008 and still continued , now the monthly sip is 55k and total value is 1.85cr. Need to accumulate 7cr with in next 4 yrs pls guide how can i achieve. - Deepak J. Hajari
Ans: Deepak, your long-term SIP discipline is impressive. Accumulating Rs. 7 crore in 4 years is ambitious. Achieving this goal requires a strategic approach, as time is limited. Let's create an actionable plan for your success.

Current Financial Snapshot
Ongoing SIPs: Rs. 55,000 monthly.
Current Portfolio Value: Rs. 1.85 crore.
Target Corpus: Rs. 7 crore within 4 years.
Your consistent investing habits have built a solid foundation. However, to achieve your target, adjustments are needed.

Key Challenges
Short Time Frame: Four years is a limited period for aggressive wealth accumulation.
Significant Gap: A gap of Rs. 5.15 crore remains to meet the Rs. 7 crore goal.
Market Volatility: Equity investments might face short-term volatility.
Recommendations to Bridge the Gap
1. Increase Your SIP Contributions
Raise your SIP amount to Rs. 1.25 lakh per month.
This increase ensures faster wealth creation through compounding.
Prioritise high-growth funds in equity-oriented categories.
2. Invest Lump Sum Amounts
Consider deploying a lump sum if you have idle savings or low-yield investments.
Invest in aggressive equity mutual funds for higher potential returns.
Break down the lump sum into tranches for better market timing.
3. Diversify into High-Growth Mutual Funds
Focus on small-cap and mid-cap mutual funds for higher growth potential.
Maintain a balance with some large-cap exposure for stability.
Ensure the portfolio aligns with your high-return requirements.
4. Avoid Overexposure to Debt or Low-Yield Instruments
Limit debt investments during this aggressive growth phase.
Avoid instruments like FDs or debt mutual funds with lower returns.
Rely on equity for the next four years to maximise growth.
5. Rebalance Your Portfolio Regularly
Conduct a portfolio review every 6 months.
Reallocate funds based on underperforming or outperforming sectors.
Keep your portfolio aligned with market trends and your goals.
6. Capitalize on Bonus or Windfall Gains
Direct any bonuses, salary hikes, or windfall gains towards your target.
Avoid unnecessary expenses during this focused phase.
Tax Efficiency Matters
Equity Mutual Funds Taxation: Gains above Rs. 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.
Debt Mutual Funds Taxation: Taxed as per your income slab.
Plan redemptions strategically to minimise tax liabilities.
Leverage Market Opportunities
Benefit from Market Corrections: Use corrections as opportunities to invest lump sums.
Stay Invested for Compounding: Avoid early redemptions to let compounding work fully.
Role of Regular Monitoring
Track Performance: Ensure funds are performing as per expectations.
Switch Funds if Needed: Shift from underperforming funds to high-growth options.
Final Insights
Deepak, achieving Rs. 7 crore in 4 years requires aggressive yet calculated strategies. Increase your SIPs, deploy lump sums, and focus on high-growth funds. Regular monitoring and disciplined investing are key to your success. Stay patient and consistent.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7097 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 21, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 20, 2024Hindi
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I am 50 yrs old. If I invest 60k per month for 10 yrs in SIPs of MF then will I be able to achieve the corpus of Rs. 2.50 Crs and if not how much shall I invest per month and in which SIP schemes
Ans: You have a clear goal to invest Rs. 60,000 per month for 10 years. The goal is to accumulate Rs. 2.5 crore through mutual fund SIPs. Let us analyse your query in detail and provide actionable insights.

Evaluating the Feasibility of Your Investment Plan
10-Year Time Frame:
Ten years is a medium-term horizon. Equity-based mutual funds offer good growth potential for this period.

Monthly SIP Contribution:
A SIP of Rs. 60,000 is significant. It shows your commitment to wealth creation.

Target Corpus Analysis:
The target of Rs. 2.5 crore depends on consistent returns. Market performance influences results.

Expected Returns:
Equity funds can give 10%-12% annualised returns in the long run. However, returns are not guaranteed.

Is Rs. 60,000 Sufficient?
Your current contribution may not be sufficient to reach Rs. 2.5 crore in 10 years.

For 10%-12% Returns:
You might accumulate Rs. 1.9–2.1 crore. There could be a shortfall of Rs. 40–60 lakh.

Solution:
Increase your SIP amount to Rs. 75,000–80,000 monthly for a better chance of achieving the goal.

Optimising Your SIP Contributions
Step-Up SIPs:
Increase your SIP amount by 5%-10% every year. This adjusts for inflation and higher earnings.

Lump Sum Boost:
If you have surplus funds, invest a lump sum. This accelerates your goal.

Diversify Investments:
Allocate across equity and hybrid funds for balanced growth and risk management.

Selecting the Right SIP Investments
Actively managed funds are suitable for your goals. Avoid index funds due to their limitations.

Equity Funds for Growth:
These funds have high growth potential over 10 years.

Diversified Portfolio:
Choose funds across large-cap, mid-cap, and multi-cap categories. This spreads risk effectively.

Hybrid Funds:
Hybrid funds provide stability by balancing equity and debt investments.

Avoiding Direct Funds
Investing through direct funds might seem cost-effective but has drawbacks.

Limited Guidance:
Direct funds lack professional advice. This could lead to suboptimal fund choices.

Benefits of Regular Plans:
A Certified Financial Planner ensures proper fund selection and portfolio review.

Managing Tax Implications
Understanding taxation helps optimise your returns.

Long-Term Gains:
LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%. Plan redemptions strategically.

Short-Term Gains:
STCG on equity is taxed at 20%. Avoid frequent withdrawals to minimise this tax.

Hybrid Funds Taxation:
Gains from hybrid funds are taxed as per your income slab.

Steps to Achieve Rs. 2.5 Crore
Increase SIP Amount:
Raise your SIP to Rs. 75,000–80,000 monthly.

Review Annually:
Monitor portfolio performance and adjust investments.

Use a Balanced Strategy:
Combine equity funds with hybrid funds to optimise risk and return.

Seek Professional Help:
Work with a Certified Financial Planner to refine your plan.

Final Insights
Your goal of Rs. 2.5 crore in 10 years is achievable with adjustments. Increase your SIP amount and maintain discipline. Diversify investments and periodically review the portfolio. A Certified Financial Planner can guide you for maximum efficiency and clarity.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7097 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 21, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 19, 2024Hindi
Money
Im a 34 year old, my father is planning on selling a property from which he would provide me with a gift of 1 Crore. At the moment , since my business has not launched, I would like to be earning interest from the Corpus amount and would also like to have a withdrawal of around 40-50K per month. Im very new to investing, and all i know is , getting half baked answers just isnt worth it. So im asking the experts, what is a realistic return that I could hope for? Provided its invested into mutual funds and debt funds. I would like to protect the corpus and make it grow while also trying to a withdrawal of 50-k per month.
Ans: Firstly, it's fantastic that you're approaching your investment decisions with a clear goal in mind. Receiving a gift of Rs 1 Crore from your father is a significant opportunity. Your desire to earn regular income while protecting and growing the principal corpus is a smart approach, especially given the current stage of your business. Let’s explore a realistic strategy for achieving your goal of monthly withdrawals while ensuring long-term growth.

Key Objectives
Preserve the Corpus: Ensuring the Rs 1 Crore grows steadily and does not erode.
Generate Monthly Income: Aiming for Rs 40,000–50,000 monthly withdrawals to meet your cash flow needs.
Balanced Risk: A mix of investments in mutual funds and debt funds to balance growth with security.
Types of Funds to Consider
To achieve your objectives, the portfolio needs to include a mix of debt and equity mutual funds. Here’s an overview of each option:

1. Debt Funds (Low-Risk)
Debt funds are ideal for stability. They typically offer steady returns with lower volatility. These funds invest in bonds, government securities, and corporate debt.

Stability: They offer relatively stable returns with low risk to the principal.
Monthly Income: Debt funds with monthly income plans (MIPs) can provide regular payouts.
Expected Returns: Historically, debt funds return 7-9% annually, depending on the type and tenure of the bonds they invest in.
2. Equity Mutual Funds (Moderate to High-Risk)
Equity funds invest in stocks and can offer higher returns, but with more volatility. Over the long term, they have the potential to outperform debt funds, though there can be short-term fluctuations.

Growth Potential: Equity funds are essential for capital appreciation.
Risk Profile: Equity mutual funds carry more risk but can provide higher long-term returns.
Expected Returns: Historically, equity funds can offer 10-15% returns per annum, depending on market conditions and fund management.
Expected Return and Withdrawal Strategy
Given your goal of withdrawing Rs 40,000–50,000 monthly (Rs 4.8–6 lakh annually), let’s assess a realistic return scenario:

1. Required Returns for Monthly Withdrawal
To generate Rs 4.8–6 lakh annually, you need to have a combination of income and growth.
Assumption: You need a mix of debt and equity funds. If you target an average return of 8-9% per annum from debt and equity, your portfolio should generate enough income.
2. Risk-Return Balance
Debt Funds: These funds will give stability and a guaranteed income, but at a lower return rate.
Equity Funds: These can help grow your corpus and offer a better chance of increasing the monthly withdrawal amount over time.
3. Potential Returns Based on Allocation
50% Debt Funds: Target return of 7-8% annually.
50% Equity Funds: Target return of 12-14% annually.
This balanced approach provides income and growth, helping you meet your withdrawal goal while maintaining long-term growth.

Portfolio Structure Suggestions
1. Debt Fund Allocation (50%)
Why Debt?: Debt funds offer lower risk and more predictable returns, making them suitable for generating a steady income.
Types of Debt Funds to Consider:
Corporate Bond Funds: These offer better returns than government bond funds, but at slightly higher risk.
Short-Term Debt Funds: These funds invest in short-term instruments and are less sensitive to interest rate changes.
Monthly Income Plans (MIPs): These funds are specifically designed to provide monthly payouts, offering an income stream.
2. Equity Fund Allocation (50%)
Why Equity?: Equity funds will provide higher returns and help your corpus grow over time. They are necessary for long-term wealth creation.
Types of Equity Funds to Consider:
Large-Cap Funds: These invest in well-established companies with a stable growth record.
Flexi-Cap Funds: These funds invest across all market caps, allowing flexibility to choose the best opportunities.
Hybrid Funds: A mix of debt and equity, hybrid funds are suitable for balancing risk and return.
Tax Considerations for Your Portfolio
Mutual fund investments are subject to taxes on the capital gains.

Equity Funds:
Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG): If held for more than 1 year, LTCG above Rs 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%.
Short-Term Capital Gains (STCG): If sold within 1 year, STCG is taxed at 15%.
Debt Funds:
LTCG: If held for more than 3 years, debt fund gains are taxed at 20% with indexation benefits.
STCG: If sold within 3 years, gains are taxed according to your income tax slab.
You should plan your withdrawals in a way that balances both income generation and tax efficiency.

Risk Management and Capital Preservation
Your focus on preserving the corpus is essential. While debt funds provide safety, equity funds add the potential for capital appreciation. To protect your capital:

Diversify Across Different Asset Classes: Ensure a mix of debt, equity, and hybrid funds.
Review Portfolio Regularly: Market conditions change, and it’s important to keep your portfolio aligned with your risk tolerance and financial goals.
Avoid Overconcentration: Don’t put all your funds into one type of asset. Spread your investments across sectors and instruments.
Steps to Implement Your Strategy
1. Choose Mutual Funds Through an MFD with CFP Credentials
Why?: Investing through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) ensures your investments are aligned with your long-term goals and risk profile.
Avoid Direct Funds: While direct funds have lower expense ratios, you miss out on valuable advisory support. An MFD offers curated fund selection, tax advice, and regular portfolio reviews.
2. Start with a 50-50 Debt-Equity Split
Debt: Focus on short-term and MIPs for income generation.
Equity: Invest in large-cap or flexi-cap funds for long-term growth.
3. Monitor and Rebalance
Rebalance your portfolio annually based on market performance and changing needs.
Adjust debt and equity allocations depending on your withdrawal requirements and market conditions.
Final Insights
With Rs 1 Crore, you can generate enough income for your monthly withdrawals while allowing your money to grow. A balanced approach of 50% debt funds and 50% equity funds is a realistic strategy to achieve this. Your investment portfolio will ensure that you have both stability and growth, helping you meet your cash flow needs while protecting and growing your corpus.

It's crucial to engage with a Certified Financial Planner to tailor the investment strategy to your exact needs. Their expertise will help you make better decisions for both tax efficiency and long-term wealth creation.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

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